The calendar was already set: the 14th October 2025 Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 (22H2)It's not a system "shutdown"; your PC will still turn on and work as before, but from now on There will be no security patches, no bug fixes, and no official support.That's the change that really matters.
It's important to fully understand what this entails, as you're exposing yourself to the risks if you decide to stay. Meanwhile Windows 11 gaining ground —according to a report by Computerworld While it has already surpassed its predecessor in market share—, there are still many companies and users maintaining systems running Windows 10. For some, it's an operational necessity; for others, a transition that can be managed thoughtfully and additional security measures.
What changes when Windows 10 support ends
From the end date, Microsoft stop releasing security updatesThis means that any newly discovered vulnerabilities will go unpatched, and over time, gaps will accumulate that attackers know about and can exploit. It also halts the bug fixes, performance improvements and technical support.
In practice, the system doesn't suddenly stop booting or running your current programs. In fact, many will continue to function normally for months. The problem arises in a progressiveNewer versions of browsers, office suites, professional tools, and drivers will gradually become incompatible with Windows 10.
For home users, the biggest impact is the increased risk of browsing, downloading, or opening attachments. For businesses, this also has collateral effects: loss of regulatory compliance, larger attack surface on the network and support complications with software and hardware vendors.
Many will think, "Well, then it's fine if I use it carefully." And it's true that it's not the end of the world: there are still people who use Windows 7 computers for simple tasks. But the difference now is that the The threats are more advanced and automated—the very wave of AI-powered scams and malware It proves it—, and that raises the bar of caution you need.
Practical risks of continuing with Windows 10
Even without being dramatic, staying on Windows 10 after support ends involves specific risks. Here are the most relevant ones, which will intensify over time if you don't take action. compensatory measures:
- Without security patchesEvery new vulnerability that comes to light will not be fixed; outdated systems are a priority target in massive attacks.
- Increasing incompatibilitiesNewer versions of Chrome, Office, creative suites, antivirus software, and communication clients will gradually stop supporting Windows 10.
- Drivers and peripheralsWhen incorporating newer printers, cameras, or screens, you may run out of compatible drivers or experience persistent errors.
- Performance and stabilityWithout adjustments or hotfixes, certain problems will not be solved and errors will accumulate that detract from the experience.
- No official support availableIf something goes wrong, there will be no Microsoft channel to escalate to; you'll be relying on forums and communities.
Attackers also sometimes keep critical vulnerabilities "up in the air" to exploit when a product reaches its end of support. This makes Windows 10 systems particularly vulnerable. attractive front doors within home and corporate networks.
Impact on businesses: regulations, continuity and costs
In corporate environments, continuing to use unsupported Windows 10 is not just a technical issue; it's a matter of risk and complianceOperating with unpatched systems can conflict with frameworks and regulations such as ISO 20000, ENS, NIS2, DORA or GDPR, which require maintaining updated and secure platforms.
Besides the danger of a security incident (data theft, ransomware, production stoppages), there are practical effects: business applications (ERP, CRM, verticals) could start to fail or stop updatingAnd the addition of new hardware runs into problems with incompatible drivers. All of this reduces productivity and increases support costs.
To avoid this, the key lies in visibility and planning. This is where the IT Asset Management (ITAM)which provides a live inventory of the park, classifies equipment by criticality and compatibility, and allows for organization phased migrations without chaos.
Natural evolution, CyberITAM, integrates cybersecurity into asset management: identifies vulnerable equipment, proposes its temporary isolationIt prioritizes actions based on risk and generates reports for audits. With this approach, the end of a system's life is not a crisis, but a controlled process.
Is it still possible to use Windows 10 responsibly?
The short answer is “yes, for a while and with precautions.” If your usage is basic (regular browsing, light office work) and you understand the risks, you can buy yourself some time while you decide on your next step. It's essential to strengthen your protection and limit your exposure, because There is no longer a safety net in the form of official patches.
Anyone who uses it for work or handles sensitive data should seriously consider a priority migrationIn companies, remaining on an obsolete system multiplies the probability of incidents and penalties, and also increases the cost of each month of continuity due to alternative patches and ad hoc support.
If you decide to stay temporarily, it's advisable to deploy a high-level security suite. Solutions such as Kaspersky Premium (mentioned in several guides) offer real-time protection against malware and ransomware, advanced firewall, identity and banking safeguards, unlimited VPNA password manager and data breach monitoring tool with AI engines capable of detecting anomalous behavior. It doesn't replace system patches, but it reduces risk while you plan.
And please, back up your data. Microsoft recommends using Windows Backups To send documents, photos, settings, and apps to OneDrive. It's a simple step that helps avoid drama and facilitates a smooth transition when you make the switch.
Ways to save time: ESU and available alternatives
After the end of support, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) as an option for patch extensions. There are important nuances here depending on the user type and region, and it's worth reviewing them because publicly available information shows differences.
For individual users, some guides maintain that joining the ESU program can be It's free if you use a Microsoft account To log in, and you keep that account linked to Windows Update. In that scenario, you would get security patches for another year, until October 2026.
If you prefer to keep a local account, those same sources indicate a $30 one-time payment option (or its equivalent in euros) to get that extra year without having to use a Microsoft account, with the possibility of extending the coverage until 10 equipment from home. This method would be especially convenient in Europe, where the registration would appear in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Other sources, focused on corporate security, detail that ESU is an alternative designed primarily for companies, with increasing annual costs and deadlines that could extend until 2028 depending on the contract and edition. In this case, the extension requires licensing and budget planning.
There is also a mention that, through the tool Windows BackupSome teams may receive a temporary extended support (a few months) until 2026, although it's not available for all devices and doesn't replace the formal ESU program. If you choose this route, treat it as what it is: a temporary fix.
Making the leap to Windows 11: advantages and real options
If your hardware allows it, upgrade to Windows 11 It's the most direct way to regain security and, incidentally, access tangible user experience improvements. Microsoft maintains the free update from a legitimate Windows 10 license, even after the end of support.
What do you gain? Security from the start (requirements such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot), performance and efficiency improvements, more refined desktop and window management, cloud and Microsoft 365 integration, and new AI-powered capabilities such as Copilot that are already part of the system.
If your equipment doesn't seem to meet the requirements, first check the UEFA / BIOSOn relatively new systems, TPM 2.0 is usually present but may be disabled. In incompatible scenarios, Microsoft offers a method to enable the upgrade with unsupported CPUs/TPMs by creating the appropriate registry key:
reg add HKLM\SYSTEM\Setup\MoSetup /f /v AllowUpgradesWithUnsupportedTPMorCPU /d 1 /t reg_dword
Beyond that, some guides suggest shortcuts: using a modified version From the Windows 11 installation using the download command “irm … | iex” to enable the MicroWin tab and download the ISO, or resort to Flyoobe (a free and open-source tool) for installing Windows 11 on unsupported computers, although without certain AI features. If you venture into this area, proceed with caution and from official sources of each project.
Another alternative mentioned for those without an official license is to join the Windows Insider program and use beta or previous branches; there may be bugs and, logically, it is geared towards those who accept that trade-off between novelty and stability.
Orderly migration in companies: steps that work
The experience of long-standing Microsoft partners shows a clear pattern: successful migrations They plan and staggerIt's not about clicking and praying, but about knowing your environment and executing methodically.
A recommended approach includes: prior audit to find out which computers are still running Windows 10 and whether they meet the requirements; wave planning prioritizing critical positions; and a backup plan complete before touching anything.
Then, implement pilots Test in small groups to validate hardware, application, and profile compatibility. Fix what's not working, and once you have it under control, gradually expand the deployment. Technological change is also a human process: dedicate time to the Development of users on news and best practices.
Finally, it guarantees support during and after of the transition. The migration doesn't end when the wizard finishes: there are doubts, minor errors, and fine-tuning to resolve. An expert hand prevents delays and frustrations, and reduces hidden costs.
Best practices if you continue using Windows 10 temporarily
If you need to stay on Windows 10 for a while, think of it as a controlled period, with an expiration date and security compensation clear. These guidelines help:
- Premium security suiteReal-time protection, firewall, anti-ransomware, banking protection, VPN, and password manager. High-end solutions are essential now.
- Navigation with discretion: limits downloads and macros, Be wary of attachments and links, and segments the team of critical devices on the local network.
- Software up to dateKeep browsers, Java, .NET, drivers, and apps updated to their latest compatible versions (even if the system does not receive patches).
- BackupsActivate Windows Backup with OneDrive and perform regular offline backups; it's your lifeline against ransomware.
- Less exposureUse non-privileged accounts for everyday tasks, disable unnecessary services, and enable measures such as application control.
Remember: what was enough yesterday isn't anymore. Without official patches, your "shield" depends on reducing the attack surface and a Powerful antivirus/antimalware that detects malicious behavior, including zero-day threats.
Context of the installed park and why it is not advisable to be overconfident
Windows 10 was the dominant operating system for years, especially in businesses. Although Windows 11 adoption is progressing, and according to Computerworld There would already be exceeded in quota Unlike its predecessor, the reality in many organizations is hybrid: teams in different versions, legacy applications, and devices with long lifecycles coexist.
When there were barely any left two weeks By the deadline, many machines still lacked a clear migration plan. And then the day arrived: on October 14, 2025, Windows 10 officially reached its end of support. The world didn't end, but one essential variable did change: Your safety now depends on younot from the manufacturer.
For those who manage IT, it's proof that asset management isn't an "extra," but a core capability. park visibilityBeing able to prioritize, budget, and execute in phases makes the difference between a traumatic end of life and an orderly transition.
In homes and small businesses, the decision is also about balance: you can hold out for a while with precautions and ESU if applicable, but the sooner you have a plan towards Windows 11 (or new devices if appropriate), less risk and less friction you will find.
Windows 10 doesn't stop working after its end of support, but the environment around it does change: threats increase, vendors look to the future, and compatibility erodes. With a realistic plan—ESU where appropriate, enhanced security if you stay, and a phased migration as soon as possible—you can turn this end-of-life into a smooth transition and without any surprises.
