In a development that's bound to impact millions, Microsoft has announced it will drop official support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. For those still clutching onto their trusty Windows 10 systems, the clock is ticking, and tech security experts, including ESET, are issuing urgent advisories. The recommendation? Upgrade to Windows 11 promptly or, for the adventurous at heart, consider switching to a Linux distribution. Why all the fuss? Let’s dive deep into what this means for your computer’s safety—and what you should do about it before it's too late.
Remember, cybercriminals love a good end-of-life phase for operating systems, and they won't wait for you to make up your mind.
So, WindowsForum.com readers—what route will you take? Share your upgrade plans or Linux migration stories below! Let’s help each other out.
Source: ETV Bharat Upgrade To Windows 11 Or Switch To Linux Before End Of Support For Windows 10: ESET
The End of an Era for Windows 10
Microsoft's decision to sunset Windows 10 leaves users with two unappealing realities if they fail to adapt:- No More Patches: When Microsoft ends support for an operating system (OS), it stops issuing security updates. That means any newly discovered vulnerabilities will remain unpatched, leaving your system wide open to exploitation.
- Cybercriminal Alert: It's not just you who knows about these dates—hackers mark them on their calendars, too. Older Windows systems like Windows 7 and now Windows 10 become prime targets for cyberattacks once they reach the end-of-support phase. With no official protection, exploit kits will proliferate.
Why Urgency Matters: The Numbers Speak
If you're holding out because you're not alone, think again—statistical trends highlight why inaction breeds disaster. As of December 2024:- 63% of Windows users globally are still chugging away on Windows 10.
- Comparatively, only about 34% of users have adopted Windows 11.
- The disparity was much smaller when Windows 7 was retired; back then, 70% of users had upgraded to a newer OS before its official end of life.
Why Windows 11 or Linux?
Making the transition to Windows 11 seems like the no-brainer move, but that’s only part of the story. Here’s the breakdown of why these two paths—Windows 11 or Linux—are your safest bets:1. Windows 11: Why Upgrade?
- Security Fortresses: Windows 11 comes with tightened security protocols, including hardware-based defense mechanisms like Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. It’s like moving from a tent into a bricked fortress.
- Consistent Updates: You'll continue receiving protection against zero-day exploits and emerging malware trends.
- Compatibility for Future-Proofing: Software and applications will increasingly bypass Windows 10 in favor of Windows 11. Staying outdated will eventually make some apps unusable.
The Catch: Older hardware might not meet Windows 11’s strict requirements, such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. If that's your situation, a new device or... Linux!
2. Switching to Linux (Yes, Really)
For users with hardware that can’t handle Windows 11, Linux has emerged as a truly viable alternative. Systems that ran earlier versions of Windows like XP or Windows 7 will find Linux lighter and better optimized for older machines. Moreover:- Cost-Effective: No licensing fees! Linux is open-source and often free.
- Security-First Design: Linux systems inherently prioritize security and are less attractive targets for widespread malware campaigns.
- Variety of Options: Popular beginner-friendly distributions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Pop!_OS make Linux accessible, even for first-timers.
- Customizability: It gives you an unparalleled level of control, from the desktop environment to installed software.
Pitfalls to Avoid: Extended Security Updates (ESU)
For diehard Windows 10 users unwilling to let go, Microsoft will offer something called Extended Security Updates (ESU). However, brace yourself for sticker shock. These annual updates cost extra and double in price every year. Beyond affordability, ESU isn't future-proof and merely delays the inevitable.Cybersecurity Tips for 2025 and Beyond
Don't let procrastination endanger your system. Here’s a checklist to stay ahead of evolving threats:1. Upgrade as Soon as Possible
Transitioning to a supported OS (Windows 11 or Linux) mitigates 99% of outdated-system risk.2. Automate Updates
Whether you're on Windows 11, Linux, or older hardware that qualifies for limited updates, enable automatic updates on every device.3. Harden Your Security with Tools
Invest in modern internet security software that can:- Scan emails
- Identify vulnerabilities using exploit detectors
- Offer cloud-based protection
4. Reduce Admin Privileges
Limit administrative access to prevent accidental malware execution and better protect sensitive data.5. Backup Critical Data
Regularly backup files. Use:- External devices (hard drives, USB storage)
- Cloud storage services with robust encryption
Conclusion: Act Now, Stay Safe
If you're among the 63% of Windows 10 users globally still hanging onto an aging OS, the time to act isn’t October 2025—it’s today. Microsoft marking a tombstone for Windows 10 should motivate you to upgrade, not procrastinate. While the path to Windows 11 is the smoothest route for most people, those with older hardware don’t need to panic. With options like Linux boiling up as a viable contender, there’s absolutely no reason to keep staring down the security barrel of an unsupported device.Remember, cybercriminals love a good end-of-life phase for operating systems, and they won't wait for you to make up your mind.
So, WindowsForum.com readers—what route will you take? Share your upgrade plans or Linux migration stories below! Let’s help each other out.
Source: ETV Bharat Upgrade To Windows 11 Or Switch To Linux Before End Of Support For Windows 10: ESET