The End of an Era: Windows 10 Support Ends in One Month
Microsoft has reminded users that in just one month it will officially end support for the much-loved Windows 10. Beginning October 14, 2025, the operating system will no longer receive security patches, bug fixes, or technical assistance. This applies to all editions of Windows 10 version 22H2 — Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise. The final cumulative update will be released in October; after that, devices running this OS will remain without monthly patches, dramatically heightening the risk of vulnerability exploitation.
On the same date, extended support will also end for Windows 10 2015 LTSB and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSB 2015. Microsoft is offering users several options. The primary recommendation is migration to Windows 11 or using cloud-based Windows 11 through the Windows 365 service.
Those unwilling or unprepared to upgrade immediately may enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. For home users, the cost is $30 annually; for enterprises, $61 per device. However, private users can activate it free of charge if they agree to enable Windows Backup for cloud synchronization or redeem Microsoft Rewards points to cover the subscription. Virtual machines running Windows 10 and devices using cloud-based Windows 11 via Windows 365 will continue to receive updates under ESU without additional cost.
There are also alternatives: transitioning to long-term servicing channel (LTSC) releases, designed for specialized devices with extended support lifecycles. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 will receive updates until January 2027, while LTSC 2019 will be supported until January 2029. For IoT Enterprise, extended support extensions remain available.
Microsoft advises users to consult the Lifecycle Policy and FAQ for up-to-date timelines. A separate list details all products reaching end of support this year.
The challenge is compounded by the fact that tens of millions of devices worldwide still rely on Windows 10. According to Statcounter, Windows 11’s market share in August 2025 approached 50%, while Windows 10 retained 45%. Among gamers, the transition has been faster: Steam statistics show over 60% of users on Windows 11 compared to 35% still on Windows 10. These figures indicate that while the migration is advancing, millions of machines remain at risk of losing protection by mid-October.
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