Brace yourselves, folks—Windows 10 users are in for a shakeup, and it’s not just your everyday software update. Microsoft has officially drawn the line in the sand: come October 14, 2025, Windows 10's long, successful 10-year race will come to an end, and it’s time to move forward—or prepare yourself for some interesting solutions to stay secure. Ready for the breakdown? Let’s dig in.
And that’s not all. Support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will bite the dust on the same date. Yes, the beloved suite of productivity tools including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook will no longer be updated for Windows 10 users. While these apps will still technically work, Microsoft has made it clear that continuing to use them on an unsupported system might lead to "performance and reliability issues."
Modern versions of Windows require advanced hardware that meets strict standards, such as:
Microsoft is, of course, cheering for everyone to grab Windows 11 like it’s the last slice of pizza. That’s not just rhetoric—Windows 11 comes with enhanced security features baked into the OS, such as virtualization-based security (VBS), improved driver protection, and built-in defenses against malware and phishing attacks.
For users who can’t—or won’t—move to Windows 11, this will spark a significant dilemma: invest in new hardware, switch to entirely different productivity apps, or stick with an unsupported system.
Change is always inconvenient, but look at it this way: transitioning to a new, modern OS opens doors for innovation, enhanced security, and future-proofing your technological ecosystem. That said, if you’re part of the club that simply won’t budge, keep the wallet ready for that $30-per-year lifeline.
However you choose to proceed, the message is clear: Don’t ignore the calendar. October 2025 will mark the end of an era, and Microsoft wants no one left stumbling in the dark.
Source: Daily Record https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/microsoft-app-warning-windows-10-34491320
What’s Changing?
Here’s the no-frills version: Microsoft will cease free software and security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This “end-of-support” date doesn’t mean your computer will self-destruct at midnight Cinderella-style. Nope, your Windows 10 PCs will still function—but they’ll be walking around without a coat in a snowstorm, metaphorically speaking. Without updates, users are at increased risk of cybersecurity breaches and performance degradation over time.And that’s not all. Support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will bite the dust on the same date. Yes, the beloved suite of productivity tools including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook will no longer be updated for Windows 10 users. While these apps will still technically work, Microsoft has made it clear that continuing to use them on an unsupported system might lead to "performance and reliability issues."
Upgrade or Subscription?
Microsoft isn’t shutting the door on Windows 10 users without offering options. But whether those options seem appealing—or obligatory—is another matter:1. Upgrade to Windows 11
The most obvious route is to upgrade to Windows 11, which has been around since 2021. The good news? Microsoft is offering this upgrade for free if your device meets the minimum system requirements. The bad news? Not all PCs running Windows 10 qualify.Modern versions of Windows require advanced hardware that meets strict standards, such as:
- Secure Boot capability
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
- At least 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage
- A compatible 64-bit CPU
Microsoft is, of course, cheering for everyone to grab Windows 11 like it’s the last slice of pizza. That’s not just rhetoric—Windows 11 comes with enhanced security features baked into the OS, such as virtualization-based security (VBS), improved driver protection, and built-in defenses against malware and phishing attacks.
2. Pay for Extended Security (Lifeline Plan)
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to Windows 10, there’s a lifeline—though it comes with a price tag. Starting in 2026, users can opt into a $30 annual subscription (around £24) to receive extended security updates for Windows 10. However, this option won’t last forever, as Microsoft typically only offers these extended services for a limited number of years post-retirement. Think of it as paying for an insurance policy on something you should ideally replace.What About Unsupported Machines?
Got an older PC that can’t make the jump to Windows 11 but you’re not ready to let it go? Yes, you can technically install Windows 11 on unsupported devices. But Microsoft washes its hands of responsibility if things go south. Unsupported installs could result in slow performance, random crashes, or even unstable functionality. So while it’s legally allowed, it’s not exactly recommended—unless you’re prepared to tinker with driver settings and troubleshoot frequently.The End of Office on Windows 10: What You Should Know
The simultaneous end of support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 makes this shift especially impactful. Unlike the OS, these apps are part of your everyday workflow—emailing clients in Outlook, editing spreadsheets in Excel, or building presentations with PowerPoint. Microsoft has warned that without updates, these apps could face vulnerabilities and “performance issues.” Translation? Expect hiccups and potential slowdowns.For users who can’t—or won’t—move to Windows 11, this will spark a significant dilemma: invest in new hardware, switch to entirely different productivity apps, or stick with an unsupported system.
Why the Push for Windows 11?
If it feels like Microsoft is gently shoving people toward Windows 11, you're right. And this push isn’t just about shiny new features. Over the past few years, the company has doubled down on building a safer, faster, and more integrated operating system for the cloud-first era. Windows 11 is optimized for modern digital workplaces, including:- AI integration: Expect improved AI-powered tools for multitasking, focused work, and accessibility.
- Cloud-first applications: Tight integration with Microsoft Azure and Teams makes Windows 11 a better choice for collaborative workflows.
- Gaming advancements: DirectStorage technology, Auto HDR, and improved graphics support make Windows 11 attractive to gamers.
What About Global Adoption?
Interestingly, for all its bells and whistles, Windows 11 hasn’t dethroned Windows 10 as the OS of choice for most PCs worldwide. In fact, data suggests that millions more PCs run Windows 10 than the newer OS. Why? Partly because the hardware requirements of Windows 11 lock out a large population of older machines, making the transition costly for users reluctant to spend money upgrading devices that still function adequately.Take Action: What You Should Do Next
Hesitant? Confused? We get it—this looming deadline leaves the average user juggling options. Let’s simplify.- Check Compatibility: Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to see if your current computer meets the requirements for Windows 11.
- Plan Ahead:
- If your PC is compatible: Think about upgrading to Windows 11 early to familiarize yourself with the new OS while supported.
- If not: Decide whether to pay for the extended security subscription or invest in a newer machine.
- Backup Everything: Before making any upgrade or switch, ensure your data is backed up—whether to an external drive or a cloud-based service (like OneDrive).
- Research Alternatives: Not sold on Windows 11? Options like Linux distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora) or macOS (if you’re transitioning to Apple) are worth exploring if you’re looking for a fresh start.
Final Thoughts
The countdown clock for Windows 10’s farewell tour is ticking loudly. For users clinging to a decade’s worth of familiar design and functionality, the transition might feel bittersweet—but it’s a necessary step to stay secure and optimized in today’s fast-changing tech landscape.Change is always inconvenient, but look at it this way: transitioning to a new, modern OS opens doors for innovation, enhanced security, and future-proofing your technological ecosystem. That said, if you’re part of the club that simply won’t budge, keep the wallet ready for that $30-per-year lifeline.
However you choose to proceed, the message is clear: Don’t ignore the calendar. October 2025 will mark the end of an era, and Microsoft wants no one left stumbling in the dark.
Source: Daily Record https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/microsoft-app-warning-windows-10-34491320
