Attention, Windows warriors! If you're still clutching tightly to your Windows 10 setup as though the year 2015 never ended, prepare for an existential moment. Starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially pull the plug on Office app support for Windows 10. Yes, that means no more updates, no more bug fixes, and—brace yourself—no technical support for Microsoft Office apps on your trusty Windows 10 devices.
If you’re still holding onto Windows 10, you’re in good company. Over 62% of Windows users worldwide still rely on this old faithful OS, compared to a paltry 35% adoption rate for Windows 11, according to Statcounter. So, what’s holding people back? Two big roadblocks: hardware limitations and user inertia.
Here’s what to expect:
The TL;DR version? Microsoft wants you riding the Windows 11 train before it leaves the station—or at least, before your Office apps become an unpredictable liability. You’ve got a roadmap, you’ve got options, and you’ve got time (for now).
Don’t wait until October 14, 2025, to decide. Start planning today, whether that means upgrading your OS, reevaluating your hardware, or rethinking how you interact with the Microsoft ecosystem altogether.
Have questions, concerns, or gripes? Jump into the WindowsForum.com community and join the discussion. Let's tackle this transition together!
Source: The Economic Times https://m.economictimes.com/magazines/panache/microsoft-to-stop-support-for-office-apps-on-windows-10-time-to-upgrade/articleshow/117290470.cms
What Exactly Is Happening?
Here’s the deal: Microsoft has set a hard stop for supporting Microsoft 365 apps and even older standalone Office versions (2016, 2019, 2021, and 2024) on Windows 10. After October 2025, while the apps may still open and function (at least for a while), they’ll be skating on thin ice. Possible performance hiccups? You bet. Security vulnerabilities? Oh, you’re in for a ride.The Broader Context:
- End of the Line for Windows 10: Windows 10 itself reaches its final stage of end-of-life on October 14, 2025. Beyond this date, Microsoft will no longer update the operating system, including security patches.
- Office 365 Dependency on OS Compatibility: Since Office apps are deeply tied to system-level security features and updates, running unsupported Office apps on an obsolete OS is like refusing a seatbelt in a self-driving car—it’s risky, to say the least.
The Push Toward Windows 11
Microsoft seems to be saying, “If you love Office, you’ve got to follow it to Windows 11.” They’re not just suggesting this out of sheer altruism (or to sell more licenses); there’s a good reason—Windows 11 is built to pair with modern productivity apps securely and efficiently.If you’re still holding onto Windows 10, you’re in good company. Over 62% of Windows users worldwide still rely on this old faithful OS, compared to a paltry 35% adoption rate for Windows 11, according to Statcounter. So, what’s holding people back? Two big roadblocks: hardware limitations and user inertia.
Why Are Some People Giving Windows 11 the Cold Shoulder?
Windows 11 came roaring out of the gates back in October 2021 with flashy features and promises of a better path forward for PCs. Yet, its adoption rate has been slower than expected. Why?- Strict Hardware Requirements:
- Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t as simple as clicking "Update." Microsoft introduced mandatory requirements, including:
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) security hardware.
- 8th Gen Intel processors or equivalent AMD hardware.
- These higher bars mean that users running older, perfectly functional devices might not even meet the criteria for a Windows 11 installation.
- TPM is a microchip designed to enhance computer security by securely generating and storing encryption keys. Its job? Think of it as the digital equivalent of a bank vault for sensitive data like passwords and encryption keys. TPM also ensures system integrity, meaning it verifies your machine hasn’t been tampered with, particularly by bad actors or malware.
- This solid security base is why Microsoft insists upon TPM 2.0—it’s simply tougher to compromise.
- Workarounds and Extended Support:
- Users unwilling (or unable) to meet the Windows 11 hardware criteria have resorted to bypassing TPM 2.0 using unofficial methods. However, Microsoft doesn’t recommend this, as it compromises security.
- For those still digging in their heels, there’s a lifeline: Extended Security Updates (ESU). At $30 per year for home users, it’s a stopgap, but not a long-term solution.
The “Windows 11 PC Refresh” of 2025—Coincidence or Corporate Strategy?
Microsoft is dubbing 2025 the "Year of the Windows 11 PC Refresh" (catchy, right?). While this sounds like the tech equivalent of spring cleaning, it’s more of a shove off the plank for undecided PC users. With dwindling Windows 10 support and Office compatibility hanging by a thread, Microsoft is giving users until 2025 as a no-excuses deadline to embrace its modern OS ecosystem.Here’s what to expect:
- A surge in discounted hardware deals as PC makers double down on promoting devices as “Windows 11-ready.”
- Microsoft sweetening the deal with free Windows 11 upgrades for eligible Windows 10 devices.
- Enterprise users clinging onto specialized versions like Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) editions, which will continue to receive updates under stricter licensing conditions.
How Does This Impact YOU?
If you’re part of the 62% still rocking Windows 10, you’ve got some decisions to make:Windows Home Users:
- Free Upgrade Feasibility: If your PC meets the Windows 11 hardware requirements, congratulations—you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. Simply head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update on your device and keep your fingers crossed!
- What if You Can’t Upgrade?:
- Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30 annually to keep the wolves at bay—at least for a year.
- Embrace the reality of new hardware. Look out for budget-friendly programs and trade-in offers from manufacturers.
Small Businesses and Enterprises:
- LTSB/LTSC Options: These editions of Windows are built for organizations wanting maximum stability (think: no constant feature updates). Microsoft will continue offering support for this specialized branch.
- Extended Costs: Prepare budgets for modernizing systems or employees’ hardware that doesn’t meet security compliance.
Risk of Staying on Windows 10 Beyond 2025:
Ignoring these changes isn’t just about keeping old habits; it could have major implications:- Security Concerns: Outdated systems will no longer receive critical fixes, leaving them wide open to attacks.
- Performance Strain: Microsoft explicitly warns that Office apps might start behaving like diva software—buggy, laggy, and prone to surprise crashes.
- Compliance Issues: Businesses may fall foul of industry regulations where up-to-date OS and applications are mandatory for cybersecurity purposes.
Tip for Reluctant Users:
If budget constraints or hardware limitations prevent you from upgrading immediately, consider ditching Microsoft Office altogether and exploring free or open-source alternatives like LibreOffice or Google Workspace apps. It’s not a perfect match but could be a stopgap while you plot your next Windows adventure.Final Thoughts: The Clock Is Ticking
Microsoft has been gently nudging users toward Windows 11 for years, but with Office support officially expiring post-2025 on Windows 10, there’s no more room for procrastination. Whether you’re running a cozy home setup or a bustling office team, 2025 is your do-or-die pivot year.The TL;DR version? Microsoft wants you riding the Windows 11 train before it leaves the station—or at least, before your Office apps become an unpredictable liability. You’ve got a roadmap, you’ve got options, and you’ve got time (for now).
Don’t wait until October 14, 2025, to decide. Start planning today, whether that means upgrading your OS, reevaluating your hardware, or rethinking how you interact with the Microsoft ecosystem altogether.
Have questions, concerns, or gripes? Jump into the WindowsForum.com community and join the discussion. Let's tackle this transition together!
Source: The Economic Times https://m.economictimes.com/magazines/panache/microsoft-to-stop-support-for-office-apps-on-windows-10-time-to-upgrade/articleshow/117290470.cms
