Migrating to Windows 11

Windows 10: End of Support in 2025, Between Facts and Myths

Introduction

The end of Windows 10 support is scheduled for October 2025. Since Microsoft’s announcement, many rumors have spread: some claim it will be an “immediate catastrophe,” others insist “nothing will change.” Between alarmist discourses and misinformation, it’s time to clarify the situation.

This is reminiscent of Windows XP in 2014 or Windows 7 in 2020, with one important distinction: Windows 10 is still used by hundreds of millions of users worldwide. To better grasp the stakes, imagine Windows 10 as a car that works perfectly today, but whose manufacturer will stop providing spare parts and technical assistance after October 2025. The car will still drive, but in case of breakdown, you’ll be on your own.

What You Need to Know (Established Facts)

The Official Date

Microsoft has set the end of Windows 10 support for October 14, 2025. After this date, no more security updates or patches will be released.

This isn’t a random deadline: it follows Microsoft’s usual lifecycle of about 10 years of support for consumer operating systems. Since Windows 10 launched in July 2015, this end date has been foreseeable all along. Think of it like a subscription expiring: Microsoft gives plenty of notice so everyone can prepare.

What “End of Support” Really Means

Practically speaking, the end of support doesn’t mean your computer will suddenly stop working. Here’s what will actually happen:

• The system will keep running normally: your programs, files, and games will continue to work exactly as before. It’s like driving your car after the warranty has expired.
• Your files, apps, and programs won’t disappear: Word, Excel, your browser, video games… everything remains intact and functional.
• No more security patches will be released, which gradually increases risk. Imagine a house where broken locks and windows are never repaired again: still livable, but less safe over time.
• Microsoft’s official support ends: if you call for help with Windows 10, they won’t assist you after October 2025.

For example, today Microsoft releases monthly patches for vulnerabilities discovered internally or reported by the community. These flaws can let hackers steal your data or take control of your PC. Without patches, it’s like leaving your front door unlocked.

The Extended Security Updates (ESU) Option

For those who want to extend Windows 10 use, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU). These provide critical updates only until 2026. Keep in mind: ESU doesn’t include new features and comes with conditions.

ESU is like supplementary insurance: you pay extra to keep receiving critical fixes, but not improvements or comfort features. It mainly targets businesses needing time to plan migration, but will also be available to individuals.

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet for consumers, but based on Windows 7, expect about €50–100 per year. It’s a temporary investment—useful if your hardware can’t run Windows 11 yet and you need time to buy a new PC.

But ESU is just a band-aid, not a long-term fix. It’s like patching up an old car to keep it running a bit longer, but not a sustainable solution.

Drivers and Hardware

Even if Windows 10 keeps working, hardware makers (graphics cards, peripherals) will eventually drop support. Nvidia, for example, has committed to Game Ready drivers until October 2026.

Drivers are like translators between your OS and hardware. Without updated ones, new devices may not function properly. Imagine buying the latest RTX GPU in 2027 only to discover no drivers exist for Windows 10—it may run only in “basic” mode, wasting its potential.

Similarly, printer, scanner, webcam, and gaming mouse vendors will phase out Windows 10 support. Your current gear remains usable, but upgrade options shrink.

Common Misconceptions

“My PC Will Stop in 2025”

False. Windows 10 won’t suddenly shut down. The real issue is the lack of security updates.

Think of a 2015 car: if the manufacturer stops making parts in 2025, does the car stop working the same day? Of course not—it still runs, but repairs become harder.

“It Will Be Immediately Dangerous”

Not necessarily. Risk increases over time, but antivirus, firewall, and good habits can keep it relatively safe for a while.

“I Can Use It Forever”

Not really. Apps and browsers will gradually drop Windows 10, making it less useful. Think of trying to use a 2010 phone today: calls still work, but modern apps don’t.

“ESU Is a Miracle Fix”

No. ESU only provides critical patches for a limited time. No new features, no performance boosts, no new hardware support. And it costs extra annually, better invested in a new PC eventually.

Why So Much Alarmism?

Fear of Vulnerabilities

Unpatched systems sound scary, fueling exaggerated discourses. But like XP and 7, many people used them years after support ended without disaster—if careful.

Windows 11 Requirements

Strict requirements (TPM 2.0, UEFI, newer CPUs) exclude many perfectly fine PCs, creating frustration and anxiety. A 2016 gaming PC with 16GB RAM may not officially support Win11, fueling “forced obsolescence” concerns.

Commercial and Media Pressure

OEMs want to sell new PCs, security vendors want subscriptions, and media chase clicks with dramatic headlines. This amplifies fear.

Lack of Clear Communication

Microsoft’s messaging is often technical and aimed at IT pros, leaving average users in the dark. Forums, social media, and clickbait fill the gap with rumors and misinformation.

What to Do Practically?

Check Compatibility with Windows 11

If compatible, upgrade for free via Windows Update. Use Microsoft’s “PC Health Check” tool to confirm. If issues are just BIOS settings (TPM/Secure Boot) or RAM, these may be easy fixes.

Use ESU If Needed

If you can’t upgrade immediately, ESU until 2026 buys you time. It’s useful for older hardware, business-critical apps, or planned PC replacement soon.

Strengthen Protection

Whether with or without ESU, boost defenses: keep Defender active or install a trusted antivirus, enable firewall, avoid risky sites, use backups, and practice safe habits.

Plan a Transition

In the medium term, plan for a new OS: Windows 11, Linux (user-friendly distros like Ubuntu/Mint, even gaming with Steam Proton), macOS, or ChromeOS depending on your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Windows 10’s end of support is neither an apocalypse nor a non-event. Like every OS before it, it marks the start of gradual decline in safety and compatibility. The key is to anticipate rather than panic. Whether you upgrade to Windows 11, use ESU temporarily, switch to Linux, or buy a new PC—make an informed choice that suits your needs, budget, and technical comfort.

You’re not alone—millions face the same decision. Solutions exist, and you still have months to prepare calmly. Balance and preparation are wiser than fear or denial.