Microsoft Ends Windows 10 Support 😟
Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, as part of its standard lifecycle policy. This decision is driven by several factors:
1. Microsoft’s Lifecycle Policy: Windows 10, like any other Microsoft product, has a predetermined lifecycle, which includes a specific period of mainstream support and extended support. Mainstream support typically lasts for 5-7 years, after which extended support is available for an additional 2-5 years. Windows 10’s mainstream support ended in May 2020, and extended support will conclude on October 14, 2025.
2. Strategic Direction: Microsoft is shifting its focus towards Windows 11, which has become the new standard for the company. As a result, resources and investment are being redirected towards Windows 11 development, updates, and security patches, rather than continuing to support Windows 10.
3. Security and Updates: Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be compatible with Windows 10 after October 14, 2025, as the operating system will no longer meet the system requirements for these apps. This means that users will need to upgrade to Windows 11 or use alternative office suites to remain supported.
4. Market Share and Uptake: Although Windows 10 still holds a significant market share, its adoption rate has slowed, and many users have already migrated to Windows 11. Microsoft may be prioritizing support for the more widely adopted and newer operating system.
It’s worth noting that some users may still be able to purchase extended support for Windows 10 Enterprise and Education versions through 2027, but mainstream support will end on October 14, 2025, for all non-LTS (Long-Term Servicing) editions.
In summary, Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 due to its standard lifecycle policy, strategic direction towards Windows 11, and the need to focus on security updates and compatibility with Microsoft 365 apps.
1. Microsoft’s Lifecycle Policy: Windows 10, like any other Microsoft product, has a predetermined lifecycle, which includes a specific period of mainstream support and extended support. Mainstream support typically lasts for 5-7 years, after which extended support is available for an additional 2-5 years. Windows 10’s mainstream support ended in May 2020, and extended support will conclude on October 14, 2025.
2. Strategic Direction: Microsoft is shifting its focus towards Windows 11, which has become the new standard for the company. As a result, resources and investment are being redirected towards Windows 11 development, updates, and security patches, rather than continuing to support Windows 10.
3. Security and Updates: Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be compatible with Windows 10 after October 14, 2025, as the operating system will no longer meet the system requirements for these apps. This means that users will need to upgrade to Windows 11 or use alternative office suites to remain supported.
4. Market Share and Uptake: Although Windows 10 still holds a significant market share, its adoption rate has slowed, and many users have already migrated to Windows 11. Microsoft may be prioritizing support for the more widely adopted and newer operating system.
It’s worth noting that some users may still be able to purchase extended support for Windows 10 Enterprise and Education versions through 2027, but mainstream support will end on October 14, 2025, for all non-LTS (Long-Term Servicing) editions.
In summary, Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 due to its standard lifecycle policy, strategic direction towards Windows 11, and the need to focus on security updates and compatibility with Microsoft 365 apps.
