Microsoft's recent advertising campaign urging Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 has sparked considerable debate within the tech community. The 30-second spot, titled "Right side of risk," emphasizes the impending end of support for Windows 10 and promotes the benefits of transitioning to Windows 11 Pro PCs equipped with Intel vPro technology. (windowscentral.com)
The advertisement's message is clear: "Windows 10 support ends October 14. Stay on the right side of risk—upgrade now to the power of Windows 11 Pro PCs with Intel vPro." This direct approach underscores Microsoft's intent to encourage users to migrate to the newer operating system before the cessation of Windows 10 support. (windowscentral.com)
Understanding the End of Support for Windows 10
Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will conclude on October 14, 2025. Post this date, the company will cease providing technical assistance, software updates, and security patches for the operating system. While Windows 10 devices will continue to function, they will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats without ongoing updates. (support.microsoft.com)
To address concerns from users who may not be ready to upgrade, Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This paid initiative allows individuals and organizations to receive critical security updates for Windows 10 devices beyond the end-of-support date. However, the ESU is a temporary solution, and Microsoft recommends transitioning to a supported Windows version to ensure optimal security and functionality. (support.microsoft.com)
The Push Towards Windows 11
The "Right side of risk" campaign is part of a broader strategy by Microsoft to expedite the adoption of Windows 11. The company highlights several advantages of the newer operating system, including enhanced security features, improved performance, and a more modern user interface. Additionally, Windows 11 introduces AI integrations, such as Copilot, aimed at enhancing user productivity. (windowscentral.com)
Despite these advancements, the transition to Windows 11 has been met with resistance from a significant portion of the user base. As of April 2025, Windows 10 remains the most widely used version of Windows, accounting for 52.94% of the global market share, while Windows 11 holds 43.72%. (en.wikipedia.org)
Challenges in the Upgrade Process
One of the primary obstacles to upgrading is hardware compatibility. Windows 11 has specific system requirements, including a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and TPM 2.0 support. These prerequisites mean that many older devices are ineligible for the upgrade, compelling users to invest in new hardware. (support.microsoft.com)
For users whose devices do not meet these requirements, Microsoft suggests considering the purchase of new PCs that come pre-installed with Windows 11. This recommendation has been perceived by some as a push to drive hardware sales, especially given the company's partnerships with manufacturers like Intel. (windowscentral.com)
Community Response and Criticism
The aggressive nature of Microsoft's upgrade campaign has elicited mixed reactions. Some users appreciate the proactive approach to ensuring system security and staying current with technological advancements. Others, however, view the campaign as coercive, particularly given the financial implications of upgrading hardware.
Critics argue that Microsoft's decision to end support for Windows 10 creates a problem that the company then offers to solve through the purchase of new products. This strategy has been described as creating a problem to sell a solution, raising ethical questions about planned obsolescence and consumer choice. (windowscentral.com)
Alternative Options for Users
For those unwilling or unable to transition to Windows 11, alternative solutions exist. The Windows 10 Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) offers extended support until 2032. Originally designed for specialized systems like ATMs and medical equipment, LTSC provides a stable and secure environment without frequent feature updates. However, accessing LTSC requires a volume licensing agreement, making it less accessible to the average consumer. (laptopmag.com)
Additionally, some users are exploring alternative operating systems, such as various Linux distributions, which can offer extended support and customization options without the associated costs of upgrading to new Windows versions. (windowscentral.com)
Conclusion
Microsoft's "Right side of risk" campaign underscores the company's commitment to transitioning users from Windows 10 to Windows 11 ahead of the October 2025 end-of-support deadline. While the emphasis on security and modern features is commendable, the approach has sparked discussions about user autonomy, hardware requirements, and the financial burden of upgrading. As the deadline approaches, users must weigh the benefits of upgrading against the costs and consider all available options to make informed decisions about their computing environments.
Source: PCWorld Microsoft begs/threatens Windows 10 users, again
