Hajra Naz
Millions of Microsoft users are worried right now, and for good reason. If you’re still using Windows 10 because you can’t or don’t want to upgrade, what happens after October 14? Does your computer suddenly become unsafe? Will a security disaster hit in the next 24 hours?
Let’s clear things up.
Step One: Don’t Panic
If you want your Windows 10 computer to keep getting security updates, you need to join Microsoft’s free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program by the end of October 14. This ensures you stay protected without any gap in updates.
Most users already have the October update, so there’s no immediate danger, but you should still act soon. Losing support means real risks you’ll want to avoid.
Step Two: Know the Facts About ESU Enrollment
Yes, you should sign up now, but you can still opt into the ESU program anytime until October 14, 2026. The catch is that you won’t get any security updates from October 14, 2025, until you enroll. Once you join, your computer will automatically install all the missed updates.
Some people say that if you miss the deadline, you can’t join the program later. That’s not true. Microsoft just warns that “devices will be more vulnerable and susceptible to viruses and malware before enrollment.”
Upgrading Later Is Still an Option
Signing up for ESU doesn’t stop you from upgrading to Windows 11 later. If your PC meets the system requirements, you can still move to the newer version anytime.
But there’s another angle to consider. Security experts at Kaspersky are warning that Microsoft’s newer rules for Windows 11 might raise some privacy concerns.
Read More: Important Upgrade Warning from Microsoft for 200 Million Windows Users
Kaspersky’s Warning About Windows 11 Privacy
According to Kaspersky, “Microsoft’s recent updates to restrict workarounds for local account creation in Windows 11 raise implications for user privacy.”
Their point is that requiring a Microsoft account to set up Windows 11 forces users into Microsoft’s ecosystem. This setup can result in the sharing of personal data such as activity logs, app usage, and even location information (if enabled).
By contrast, Windows 10 gives you more freedom. You can still create a local account by disconnecting your internet during setup. This lets you skip the Microsoft account login and install Windows in offline mode.
No Major Changes Expected Before the Deadline
At this stage, it’s unlikely Microsoft will change its plans before October 14. The ESU program is already free for a year, and some of the stricter requirements have even been relaxed in Europe.
Still, every Windows 10 user should make sure they don’t forget to enroll. A Windows 11 upgrade remains the safer option.
What the ESU Program Really Covers
According to Windows Central, Microsoft’s free ESU is not a full extension of Windows 10’s life. It only provides security updates, not performance improvements or new features.
It keeps your system safe, but not better.
What Happens When Support Ends
When support officially ends, your PC won’t stop working. You can keep using it as usual; your files, apps, and features will still be there.
But after October 14, the system won’t get patches for new security threats. That means your computer will grow more vulnerable as hackers exploit new weaknesses.
This risk will appear quickly, probably within weeks. As soon as the first new vulnerabilities are found and fixed in later updates, unpatched Windows 10 systems will become easy targets.
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No More Bug Fixes or Performance Updates
Windows Central also reminds users that Microsoft is ending development and maintenance for Windows 10. That means no more bug fixes, performance updates, or new features.
Software developers and hardware makers may also stop supporting Windows 10, focusing instead on Windows 11 and newer versions.
The Growing Digital Divide
The Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) warns that around 40% of all Windows computers still run Windows 10. Many of these machines are in perfect working order, but they can’t upgrade because they don’t meet Windows 11’s strict requirements.
PIRG says this could create a digital divide between those who can afford new computers and those who cannot.
Thankfully, Microsoft’s free ESU gives everyone at least one more year before that becomes a crisis. There’s still time for new options before October 14, 2026.
Expect Compatibility Problems Over Time
Users may start noticing compatibility issues soon. Some apps or browsers could stop working, hardware drivers might not get updates, and new devices may not install properly.
Without support, everyday computer tasks will gradually become harder.
Global Warnings About Windows 10 Risks
As the October 14 deadline arrives, tech news outlets are full of warnings for the 500 million people still using Windows 10.
According to The Guardian, “Wherever in the world you are, by continuing to use Windows 10 you put yourself at risk of cyberattacks, data theft, and scams.” Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech Magazine adds that criminals will target these users to exploit system weaknesses and steal data.
Why So Many People Still Avoid Windows 11
Meanwhile, MakeUseOf asks the big question: “Windows 11 is great on paper — so why does everyone hate it?”
Windows 11 offers better performance, stronger security, and more AI-powered tools. Yet millions refuse to switch.
“Faster startup times and better memory management are great,” says the site, “but that doesn’t make up for how Microsoft buried menus behind extra clicks or removed popular features altogether.”
Upgrade Trouble: Media Creation Tool Glitch
With perfect bad timing, Windows Latest reports that Microsoft accidentally broke the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool (MCT), one of the best ways for Windows 10 users to upgrade.
Tests show that the newest version, 26100.6584 (released September 29, 2025), crashes on Windows 10 without warning. Microsoft confirmed the issue and says it’s working on a fix.
There’s no date yet for the update, but users can still download the Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) to create a bootable USB drive or perform a clean installation.
Windows 10 Still Dominates in 2025
According to StatCounter, Windows 10 still accounts for approximately 40% of all desktop systems worldwide. There’s even a small Windows 7 bump in the data, likely due to reporting errors.
Still, what’s clear is that a major chapter in computing history is ending, and the global cybersecurity concerns experts predicted have now become real.
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FAQs
1. What happens to my PC after October 14, 2025?
Your PC will keep working normally. You’ll still have access to your files and apps. However, you won’t receive security updates unless you enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
2. Can I still join the ESU program after October 14?
Yes. You can enroll anytime until October 14, 2026. But you won’t get security patches for the period before you sign up, so the sooner you join, the safer your computer will be.
3. Will I be forced to upgrade to Windows 11?
No. Joining the ESU program lets you keep using Windows 10. You can upgrade to Windows 11 later if your device supports it and you decide you want to.
4. Why do experts recommend upgrading to Windows 11?
Windows 11 has stronger built-in security, faster performance, and better memory management. It’s also designed for future AI-powered features that Windows 10 won’t support.
5. What if my PC isn’t compatible with Windows 11?
If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, you can stay on Windows 10 and use the free ESU updates for a year. After that, you may need to consider new hardware or alternative operating systems to stay secure.
