If you’re a Windows 10 loyalist, the news from Microsoft might make you take pause: starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft 365 apps (formerly known as Office apps) will cease to receive support on Windows 10. Yes, that’s the same date that Microsoft officially sunsets its venerable operating system. The message is loud and clear—Microsoft is gently nudging, or perhaps pushing, its users into the Windows 11 ecosystem. At stake? The future of your Office apps and your ability to keep them running seamlessly.
Imagine trying to finalize a critical Excel report or craft a marketing deck in PowerPoint only to discover glitches, bugs, or—gulp—even security vulnerabilities. Without routine updates and patches, programs may lose compatibility with emerging software and hardware or become susceptible to cyber threats. Translation: upgrading to Windows 11 is less about immediate functionality and more about avoiding future headaches.
Here’s how it stacks up:
Given Microsoft’s track record of improving system efficiency and usability, Windows 11 isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a necessary leap into the future. And with that 2025 deadline looking closer every moment, the time to plan is today.
What are your thoughts? Are you ready to jump to Windows 11, or will you stick with Windows 10 and explore extended support? Let’s get the conversation started—share your take with the WindowsForum.com community!
Source: Business Today https://www.businesstoday.in/technology/news/story/microsoft-to-end-support-for-office-apps-on-windows-10-by-october-2025-upgrade-to-windows-11-for-continued-use-460953-2025-01-16
Is the Sky Falling for Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 Users?
Let’s clear this up: your Microsoft 365 apps won’t abruptly stop working when the support period ends. Microsoft has confirmed that the apps will “continue to function as before,” but here’s the catch—over time, performance and reliability issues could creep in like unwelcome guests.Imagine trying to finalize a critical Excel report or craft a marketing deck in PowerPoint only to discover glitches, bugs, or—gulp—even security vulnerabilities. Without routine updates and patches, programs may lose compatibility with emerging software and hardware or become susceptible to cyber threats. Translation: upgrading to Windows 11 is less about immediate functionality and more about avoiding future headaches.
Windows 11: A Hard Sell or a Necessary Leap?
When Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s Executive VP and Chief Marketing Officer, took the stage at CES 2025 calling the year ahead “the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh,” he wasn’t joking. Adoption rates for Windows 11 have underwhelmed, thanks in part to its stringent system requirements, the most contentious being the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip, a feature baked into newer hardware for elevated security. Many legacy PCs don’t make the cut, leaving Windows 10 users to grapple with an uncomfortable reality: upgrade hardware to pivot to Windows 11, or stick to extended support on an outdated OS.Extended Security Updates: A Stopgap Solution
For those dragging their feet on the upgrade, Microsoft has sweetened the pot—sort of. An Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available for those who want to hold onto Windows 10 just a little longer.Here’s how it stacks up:
- Home Users: Can pay $30 for one additional year of updates post-2025.
- Businesses: Have the option to extend support for up to three years, pricing dependent on company size and systems in use.
But Why Does Microsoft Insist on Upgrading to Windows 11?
Microsoft’s insistence on transition isn’t just a cash grab; there are tangible reasons for the push:- Enhanced Security: With features like Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, Windows 11 bakes in considerably stronger defenses against modern cyber threats.
- Optimization for Modern Hardware: Windows 11 is designed to leverage the full capabilities of newer processors and GPUs, which means better performance and efficiency.
- Better UI and Workflow Tools: New features like Snap Layouts, DirectStorage, and Widgets streamline workflows and make Windows 11 a more productivity-friendly experience.
How to Make the Transition Easier
Switching to Windows 11 isn’t just about meeting hardware requirements or financial considerations—it’s also about ensuring compatibility with your current setup. Here’s a step-by-step plan:Step 1: Check Your Hardware
Head to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update on your Windows 10 device, and click on the “Check hardware requirements” link. Microsoft also offers a PC Health Check app, which breaks down whether your device can make the jump to Windows 11.Step 2: Back Up Your Data
Before upgrading your OS, ensure that all your files, applications, and system configurations are securely backed up using tools like OneDrive, an external hard drive, or built-in system restore options.Step 3: Research Your Apps
Review compatibility documentation for any critical software you use. While Microsoft 365 is covered, some third-party apps might not work seamlessly after the upgrade.Step 4: Budget for a New PC (If Necessary)
If your hardware is incompatible, assess whether paying for extended support is more practical than acquiring a certified Windows 11 system. This includes the price of the machine, alongside licenses for any premium software you need to reinstall.Step 5: Move Your Licenses
Ensure that your Microsoft 365 subscription and other software licenses are linked to your Microsoft account. This makes reinstallation far smoother.What Happens if You Stay on Windows 10?
So, you're thinking, “What if I dig in my heels and stay on Windows 10 even after support ends?” You’re not alone. Many people hold onto older OS versions for as long as possible, but there are a few trade-offs:- Security Risks: Without ongoing patches, a system still connected to the internet becomes a juicy target for hackers. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in unsupported systems.
- Compatibility Issues: In time, newer versions of apps and drivers will only run on Windows 11 or later. Think of it as software natural selection—adapt or become obsolete.
- Limited Features: Without updates, you'll miss out on newly developed functionalities aimed at improving productivity and user experience.
Windows 11 Is Inevitable, but Not Unattainable
Yes, upgrading is a chore. Between evaluating hardware, migrating data, and maybe saving up for a shiny new laptop, the process can feel overwhelming. However, this is your cue to future-proof your setup. Taking action now ensures that you can continue relying on the powerhouse suite of Microsoft 365 apps—Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and beyond—as they evolve.Given Microsoft’s track record of improving system efficiency and usability, Windows 11 isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a necessary leap into the future. And with that 2025 deadline looking closer every moment, the time to plan is today.
What are your thoughts? Are you ready to jump to Windows 11, or will you stick with Windows 10 and explore extended support? Let’s get the conversation started—share your take with the WindowsForum.com community!
Source: Business Today https://www.businesstoday.in/technology/news/story/microsoft-to-end-support-for-office-apps-on-windows-10-by-october-2025-upgrade-to-windows-11-for-continued-use-460953-2025-01-16
