Windows 10 End of Support 2025: Top Alternatives for India Users & How to Stay Secure

As Microsoft prepares to draw the curtain on official support for Windows 10 in October 2025, millions of users around the globe—especially in India—are facing a crucial decision: move forward to Windows 11, or carve out an alternative path. For a sizable contingent, Windows 10 remains a preferred daily driver, offering the familiarity, reliability, and software compatibility that newer iterations occasionally disrupt. Yet, many Windows 10 PCs don’t meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, leaving users with limited apparent options. However, this impending deadline is less stark than it seems; a suite of surprising alternatives has surfaced, offering both continuity and security without mandating a full leap to the next Windows generation.

The End of Windows 10 Support: What’s Really Changing?​

October 14, 2025, marks the official end of free support for Windows 10, halting security patches and routine bug fixes for regular users. Historically, such a deadline has steered users en masse toward the next available upgrade for the sake of security. But with over a billion Windows 10 devices still active, Microsoft has modified its historically rigid stance—especially for markets with vast active installations, like India.
Security is the primary concern post-deadline: without official updates, vulnerabilities accumulate, exposing users to an ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Older Windows versions are already the favorite prey of ransomware, data theft, and malware campaigns hinging on unpatched exploits. The message from cybersecurity experts and Microsoft alike is clear—do not continue to use an unsupported OS unprotected on the open internet.
But does this mean Windows 11 is a forced next step? Not quite.

Three Alternatives to Windows 11 Now Available for Windows 10 Users in India​

1. Extended Security Updates (ESU) Programme for Individuals​

In a significant policy shift, Microsoft is extending its Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme to individual consumers for the first time—previously, ESU was the exclusive preserve of businesses and large organizations. This marks a major democratization of the Windows lifecycle, especially relevant for geographies like India, where millions of consumers and small businesses depend on Windows 10 PCs.

What Does ESU Offer?​

• Critical Security Patches: The ESU programme ensures ongoing delivery of critical and important security updates, specifically targeting vulnerabilities that could be exploited post-October 2025.
• One-Year Commitment: Initially, ESU adds another year of safety—stretching Windows 10’s secure lifespan to October 2026. Microsoft may consider further extensions depending on demand.
• Coverage: Available for both Home and Pro editions of Windows 10, reaching not just enterprises but also home office and consumer-grade PCs.

Three Ways to Enroll in ESU​

Pay the ESU Fee​

For Indian users, the fee stands at $30 (approx. ₹2,600) per year—substantially more affordable than typical enterprise ESU pricing, which previously ran to hundreds of dollars per device. Sign-up is designed to be simple, with an activation wizard embedded directly into Windows 10’s Settings or Notification menu, scheduled to roll out for all eligible users by August 2025.

Redeem Microsoft Rewards Points​

Active users of Microsoft’s ecosystem can offset the annual fee by redeeming Rewards points: 1,000 points equate to a year’s worth of ESU. Many regular Bing searchers or Xbox users have accumulated such balances without realizing it—a unique approach that could effectively offer free security longevity for loyal Microsoft customers.

Leverage Windows Backup for Free ESU​

Perhaps the most novel—if potentially privacy-sensitive—path is via the new Windows Backup app. By backing up settings and files to Microsoft’s OneDrive (each Microsoft account includes 5GB free storage), users automatically gain a free year of ESU. For those content to entrust their data to Microsoft’s cloud, this route offers a seamless blend of security and backup—especially relevant given India’s strong uptake of affordable cloud services. For additional storage, paid plans start at ₹140 per month.

A Note on Duration​

Microsoft has only confirmed ESU availability for a single year post-support. No guarantees have been made about further extensions for home or small business users. Given past precedent with Windows 7, some further paid extension is likely, but not certain. For organizations or individuals seeking long-term certainty, alternatives may still be worth consideration.

2. Switching to Linux: A Viable Alternative, Especially for Older Hardware​

If the idea of ongoing payments or cloud integration doesn’t appeal, a time-honored solution beckons: switching to a modern Linux distribution. Unlike the perception of Linux as a haven for hobbyists and developers, today’s mainstream Linux flavors such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Pop!_OS are engineered for general consumers.

Strengths of Modern Linux Distros​

• No Licensing Fees: Most distributions are entirely free to download, install, and use.
• Resource Efficiency: Linux is famously less demanding on hardware than Windows, meaning older or lower-powered PCs—common in India’s home and small business market—receive a new lease on life.
• Security and Support: Major distributions are actively updated, with vulnerabilities patched rapidly—often faster than Windows turnaround times.
• Easy Installation: Modern Linux installers are user-friendly, often requiring no more technical skill than a basic Windows setup.
• App Compatibility: Thanks to projects like Flatpak and Snap, and a robust ecosystem, most essential productivity, web, and media apps have viable Linux alternatives. Gaming support, while improved through platforms like Steam Proton and Lutris, still lags behind Windows, especially for newer AAA titles.

Potential Challenges​

• Learning Curve: Despite user-friendly desktops, there’s an adjustment period for those steeped in Windows conventions.
• Software Compatibility: Certain proprietary Windows programs, especially niche professional applications and high-end games, may lack direct Linux equivalents.
• Driver Support: While hardware compatibility is strong, obscure peripherals and the very latest devices sometimes require manual tweaking.
• Banking and Government Sites: Some Indian online banking services and government portals are designed specifically for Windows/Internet Explorer stacks. Testing critical web services for Linux compatibility is recommended before making the leap.

3. Use Windows 10 Offline for “Air-Gapped” Security​

Where security and legacy app compatibility must be balanced, another option remains: use your Windows 10 PC offline.

How Does This Work?​

• Computing without Connectivity: By permanently disconnecting your device from the internet—removing Wi-Fi adapters or Ethernet connections—the risk of remote exploits and malware is drastically reduced.
• Ideal Use Cases: This solution works best for tasks like offline document editing, local photo and video storage, retro gaming, or running older specialized software tied to Windows 10.
• Safe Practice for Sensitive Work: For highly sensitive functions like banking or government access, experts still recommend a modern, updated device—separating “online” and “offline” work environments.

Limitations​

• No Web Browsing, Email, or Cloud Sync: Any online activities must be conducted elsewhere.
• Data Migration Risks: Transferring files via USB or other removable storage carries some risk; always scan media before import using an updated device.
• No Security Patches: While isolation provides a strong defense, the system remains vulnerable to physical malware transfer and cannot benefit from updates.

For users whose workflows don’t require web access, or as part of a risk-mitigating multi-device environment, using Windows 10 offline is a pragmatic—if niche—choice.

Critical Analysis: Strengths, Risks, and What to Watch For​

The Strengths​

Microsoft’s ESU Programme for Individuals:
This is arguably the greatest policy shift since the beginning of modern Windows support cycles—a recognition that millions of loyal users cannot, and often should not, be forced out by hardware gating. By democratizing ESU, Microsoft is offering both a lifeline and a gesture of goodwill.

• Affordability is significantly enhanced; both the $30 fee and option to redeem points make extended security far more accessible than previous enterprise-only pricing.
• Simplicity of enrolment via built-in tools reduces technical barriers for less-experienced users.
• Local Focus on India—where PC refresh cycles are longer—demonstrates responsiveness to global realities.

Linux as a First-Class Alternative:
Linux’s meteoric rise as a reliable desktop OS is both a testament to community-driven innovation and a sign of Windows 10’s enduring popularity.

• Zero cost and long-term support offer rare certainty in uncertain times.
• Revitalizing old hardware aligns with sustainability and economic necessity.

Offline Usage as a Safety Valve:
Retaining peak compatibility for legacy workloads, disconnected Windows 10 usage provides a low-risk bridge, especially in the context of enterprise, creative, and archival requirements.

Potential Pitfalls​

Ambiguity Around Future ESU Terms:
At present, Microsoft has only committed to one additional year of updates—after October 2026, the company hasn’t made assurances about further coverage for individuals. While history suggests there may be continuing, paid ESU access (as with Windows 7), betting critical workflows on further extensions may prove risky. Users with stringent requirements for long-term support should consider this uncertainty.
Cloud Dependency for Free ESU:
Choosing the Windows Backup/OneDrive route interlinks ESU with cloud services. Users prioritizing absolute control of their data, or those in regions with unreliable internet, may find this approach suboptimal. Indian privacy advocates continue to express concerns over cloud-hosted data, although Microsoft maintains robust compliance with international standards.
Linux Learning Curve:
While easier than ever, Linux still poses challenges for those reliant on very specific software or peripherals. Proper planning, including testing critical apps and services on Linux before switching, is key.
Offline Use Limited in Practicality:
A full air-gapped workflow is not realistic for most modern users. For critical security, it’s a solid option—but for those needing ongoing connectivity, it’s not a sustainable long-term path.

The Bigger Picture: Windows 10 and the Future of PC Upgrades​

The renewed flexibility in how Windows 10 users can safely extend the life of their PCs reflects a maturing attitude both from Microsoft and the broader tech community. Elements driving this change include:

• Global Hardware Inequality: Many users—particularly in India, Southeast Asia, and Africa—are running capable machines not compatible with Windows 11’s hardware bar. In these markets, pushing a forced hardware refresh would stifle digital inclusion and economic progress.
• User Agency: Affording individuals the same post-EOL options as enterprises creates a more equitable tech landscape.
• Sustainable Computing: Extending PC life through supported OS options aligns with environmental best practices and the priorities of both governments and consumers.

Recommended Steps for Windows 10 Users Facing the 2025 Deadline​

• Assess Your Needs:
• Is your PC eligible for Windows 11? If so, and you’re happy with the Windows experience, upgrading ensures continuity.
• If not, or if you prefer Windows 10, weigh whether ESU, Linux, or offline use makes the most sense.
• Audit Your Microsoft Rewards Points:
• Many users unknowingly accumulate points through Bing, Xbox, or Microsoft Store purchases; redeeming them for ESU is a cost-effective strategy.
• Evaluate Data Privacy Needs:
• If using Windows Backup for free ESU, remember your data will reside on Microsoft’s servers. Review privacy implications and OneDrive terms.
• Test-Drive Linux (If Curious):
• Create a USB “Live Disk” to trial Ubuntu, Mint, or another distribution without making permanent changes to your system.
• Securely Separate Workflows (If Needed):
• For workflows involving legacy Windows apps, consider maintaining a dedicated offline machine, while using an updated device for web and communication.

Key Takeaways: Security, Choice, and Planning Matter​

The end of Windows 10 support no longer spells an unavoidable upgrade or expensive outlay on new hardware. Thanks to policy shifts, users have a menu of alternatives:

• Pay a modest annual fee—or redeem Microsoft Rewards—for continued security patches via ESU.
• Use built-in Windows Backup to secure data to the cloud and extend support, balancing cost with privacy.
• Switch to well-supported, user-friendly Linux distributions to keep your device secure at zero cost.
• Harness offline workflows to mitigate risk while continuing to use Windows 10 for specific tasks.

Each path involves trade-offs—in cost, privacy, compatibility, and convenience. What stands out is Microsoft’s acknowledgment of the real-world needs of its broadest user base, and an increasingly competitive, open desktop OS landscape. By making informed choices now—planning for data protection, app compatibility, and future workflows—users across India and similar markets can extend the utility of their existing PCs, staying secure and productive well beyond 2025.
As always, keeping up with announcements from Microsoft and community experts will be vital. The company’s track record with ESU extensions for Windows 7 suggests responsiveness to user demand, but commitment beyond 2026 remains uncertain. The best strategy: choose an option that fits today’s needs while staying flexible for tomorrow’s developments.

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Source: Mint https://www.livemint.com/gadgets-and-appliances/think-you-have-to-upgrade-to-windows-11-these-3-alternatives-for-windows-10-might-surprise-you-11750938361960.html