Microsoft will end Windows 10 support in less than a decade (2025), and the company wants to push the Windows 11 operating system.
Microsoft Will Stop Security Updates
Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 in October 2025. The company has a "Fixed Lifestyle Support" policy for many products. It will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 after that date. This support will be available for mainstream products like W10 and Windows Server 2012 R2 and paid programs like SQL Server.
Users can still use the software until then. But this doesn't mean that they should stop using Windows 10. Microsoft will continue to provide security updates, but there will be no more free patches for Windows 10. However, you should upgrade to the latest Windows 11 as soon as possible. The unsupported upgrade will transfer most of your settings to the new operating system and doesn't remove any data.
The transition from Windows 7 to Windows 10 was relatively easy, but the migration rate has been low. While the migration rate was low, there will still be plenty of time for current Windows users to upgrade their systems safely. Microsoft plans to release its next version of Windows later this month. Microsoft says W11 will be a much better operating system for gamers than Windows 10. The new OS will have features from Xbox's Game Center and Xbox One, including Auto HDR, which automatically adds HDR enhancements to games.
The next big question is how Microsoft will deal with all the devices that are running Windows 10. One answer is that it will not upgrade these PCs to Windows 11. This doesn't mean that users should stop using their PCs. However, the lack of updates will result in some features of W10 ceasing to function.
Why Microsoft End Support for Windows 10 by 2025
After nearly four years of continuous support, Microsoft plans to retire Windows 10 by the end of 2025. It has updated its Windows lifecycle fact sheet to reflect that it will no longer provide updates and security fixes to Windows 10 after this date. This announcement comes as Microsoft is gearing up to release the new version of Windows 11 later this month.
There are several scenarios Microsoft could use to extend the life of Windows 10. For example, the end of support date for Windows 10 versions 1607 and 1709 is October 9, 2018. However, this is not necessarily a good idea. Some devices still support older versions of Windows, including those running the Intel Clover Trail chip family, which runs Windows 10. The April 2017 Creators Update will also be blocked, and the end of support for Windows 10 version 1607 will be October 9, 2018.
Windows 10 is still considered to be a solid operating system platform. However, most organizations are still working out the intricacies of supporting the platform. New feature updates require time to simmer, and IT departments must validate the new operating system. Additionally, they must check PC hardware inventories. As a result, they cannot expect to support W10 fully by 2025. Therefore, many enterprise users may find it hard to upgrade their computers at this point.
The company has also been working on a new version of Windows called Windows 11. Satya Nadella said the update will be "the most significant change to Windows in a decade." The company has also been self-hosting Windows 11 for several months and has revealed its plans for a new Windows app store. It is rumored that Microsoft will open up the new store to rival apps and payment platforms.
You Should Install Windows 11
The company is shifting its focus to W11, which will include more new features and Android apps. In addition, Windows 11 will support Xbox gaming features.
While you might be tempted to upgrade, be aware that Windows 11 may not be compatible with your PC. You must ensure that your computer meets the minimum requirements to install Windows 11. If your PC doesn't have these requirements, you will be forced to stick with Windows 10. To upgrade your computer, you must buy a new one before 2025.
W11 is more secure and less vulnerable to bugs. Although Windows 10 will continue to receive security updates until October 14, 2025, you should consider upgrading to Windows 11. The operating system will have a more secure base and will receive fewer performance and security bugs. Furthermore, your computer will be protected against a variety of threats.
If you're still running Windows 7 or 8 on your computer, you should consider upgrading to Windows 11. You can do this for free if your computer is compatible. Although many people will still be running Windows 8 and 7 on their computers, it's crucial to use the latest software. Without updates, your computer will be vulnerable to malware and vulnerabilities. Microsoft is also launching Windows 11 pre-installed on new laptops. Before buying a new laptop, check if it comes with Windows 11. It will save you a lot of trouble when you have to upgrade.