Windows 10 Support Ends 2025: What This Means for Microsoft 365 Users

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If you're still clinging to Windows 10 like a ship refusing to set sail, then brace yourself—Microsoft has issued its latest ultimatum. Beginning October 14, 2025, Microsoft 365 apps (think Word, Excel, Outlook, and the usual suspects) will no longer be supported on Windows 10. That’s right, Microsoft is turning off the spigot, and the era of cozy coexistence between Windows 10 and Office apps is officially coming to a close.
But don’t panic just yet! Technically, the Office apps will continue to work. They won’t just vanish into the ether on that fateful day, but sticking with them could come with risks. Let’s dive into what this means for you, whether you’re a casual user, a small business, or managing IT for a larger organization.

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The ‘When’ and ‘Why’ of It All​

The clock is ticking for Windows 10, as its official support ends on October 14, 2025. Microsoft has decided that tying the fate of Office apps directly to Windows 10’s retirement is the best way to push users toward its newer sibling, Windows 11. That’s some tough love, but it makes sense from Microsoft’s perspective—they want everyone on their latest and greatest platform.
The company has stated, “Microsoft 365 Apps will no longer be supported after October 14, 2025, on Windows 10 devices. To use Microsoft 365 Applications on your device, you will need to upgrade to Windows 11.”
This statement is curiously phrased, leading some to believe the apps will simply stop functioning after that date. Thankfully, that’s not true. If you choose to remain on Windows 10 after its official retirement, your Office apps will still launch, and you’ll still be able to edit documents. However, you’re not out of the woods entirely—there’s more to the story.

The "It Will Still Work but…" Clause​

Yes, the apps will technically function beyond October 14, 2025. But as time marches on—like an aging car no longer under warranty—you could encounter some performance hiccups, reliability issues, and even compatibility problems. Here’s where things get sticky:
  • Performance Degradation Over Time: While the apps may work immediately after the cutoff date, over time, new Office features or updates might not play well with older operating systems. We’ve seen this before—software tends to age poorly in unsupported environments, encountering bugs or inefficiencies that don’t get patched.
  • Security Risks: With Windows 10 no longer receiving free updates and Microsoft 365 apps no longer officially supported, any vulnerabilities discovered in the software stack are unlikely to be corrected. This could leave users exposed to cyber threats, especially as bad actors focus on those who cling to outdated systems.
  • Compatibility Quirks: Want to sync your Office apps with the latest OneDrive update or Office add-ons? You’re likely to run into issues. Compatibility with other third-party integrations could wane, eventually leaving you feeling like you’re working with a relic from a bygone era.

What About Security Updates?​

Here’s the kicker: While Microsoft won’t entirely abandon Windows 10 security, they’ve relegated it to “Extended Security Updates” (ESU). That means a select few security patches will still be available—but only at a premium.
  • Cost for Individuals: Microsoft is offering one year of extended security support for $30. Yes, you read that right—it’s subscription-style security, and after one year, you’re out of luck. There’s no option for individuals to pay for an additional year beyond that.
  • For Businesses: Businesses will fare a little better, as they’re eligible to purchase up to three years of extended support, at a tiered pricing structure. However, after those three years—just like individuals—they’ll lose access to updates.
This model isn’t new, as it mirrors Microsoft’s approach to phasing out older operating systems like Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008. But it’s clear that Microsoft is signaling the final chapter for Windows 10 and would prefer users embrace the future by upgrading to Windows 11.

Why Is Microsoft Doing This?​

It’s always about moving forward—growth, development, and maintaining a cohesive ecosystem. There are several motivations behind this decision:
  • Encouraging Migration: Windows 11 represents Microsoft's long-term vision for the operating system. By tying Office apps to the lifecycle of Windows 10, Microsoft is creating an incentive for holdouts to jump ship.
  • Reducing Overhead and Fragmentation: Supporting obsolete systems over many years splits resources thin. By consolidating their efforts on Windows 11, Microsoft can ensure a more unified and optimized experience for users.
  • Boosting Security: Let’s face it—Windows 10 is becoming a legacy product. Continuing to patch older systems creates unnecessary risks, especially as newer systems evolve to include more robust security features like TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 and Secure Boot.

What Should You Do?​

You have plenty of time to decide, but procrastination isn’t your friend here. Here’s a roadmap to ensure you’re prepared:

1. Upgrade to Windows 11

If your hardware is compatible with Windows 11, this is the most straightforward path. Since Windows 11 offers tighter integration with Office apps and superior security, it’s a no-brainer for staying current with Microsoft’s updates.
To check whether your hardware supports Windows 11, use Microsoft's official "PC Health Check" tool. If your device lacks the necessary specs, it might be time to weigh the cost of upgrading your system.

2. Explore Subscription Models

For businesses using Microsoft 365 or Office apps extensively, consider adopting an updated Office subscription plan along with a migration to Windows 11 to keep things running smoothly.

3. Weigh the Risk of Holding Out

If upgrading isn’t an option for you, make sure you understand—and prepare for—the potential pitfalls of continuing to use Office apps on Windows 10 beyond October 2025. Typically, the risks will grow over time as more updates are introduced to Office apps that your system might not support.

4. Plan Finances for Extended Support

For those who want to extend the life of their Windows 10 setup (e.g., small businesses with tight budgets), set aside funds for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates. But remember, this is a temporary band-aid, not a long-term solution.

Final Thoughts​

The transition away from Windows 10 has been long in coming, and Microsoft’s decision to tie Office apps to its lifecycle is a calculated move. It’s a turning point—and ultimately an opportunity—for both casual users and enterprises to embrace newer technologies. The message here is clear: future-proof your technology, or risk falling behind.
Still sticking with Windows 10? Or already made the leap to Windows 11? Let us know your thoughts, concerns, or gripes in the comments below—because this debate is far from over!

Source: Techzim Microsoft to drop support for Office apps on Windows 10 later this year
 


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