Microsoft Extends Windows 10 Support But Here’s the Catch You Can’t Ignore

If you’re one of the 700 million people still using Windows 10, the past few weeks have probably been a bit of a rollercoaster. Microsoft made a surprise announcement extending Windows 10 support for an extra year, moving the deadline from October 2025 to October 2026.

At first glance, it sounds like a gift. More time, less pressure what’s not to like?
Well, as with most tech announcements, the devil is in the details.

No 1. The Extension Comes with Catches

While the “end of support” date has been moved, there are important caveats:

• Software updates stop earlier Some programs running on Windows 10 will stop getting updates after October 14, 2025, even if the OS itself still gets security fixes.

• The 12-month extension isn’t truly ‘free’ Microsoft is offering a complimentary year of security updates, but there are still potential costs depending on your setup.

• Security risks remain You’re still on an older system, and Microsoft has made it very clear that Windows 11 is the safer, more secure choice.

No 2. Why Microsoft Wants You on Windows 11

This whole upgrade push isn’t just about new features it’s about security requirements.
To run Windows 11, your PC needs to meet TPM (Trusted Platform Module) standards. This rules out many older devices, meaning a huge portion of current PCs simply can’t make the jump without being replaced.

And of course, Microsoft isn’t shy about encouraging users to buy a Copilot+ PC their latest AI powered machines.

Read More: Microsoft Windows Users at Risk: Hackers Hide Malware in JPEG Images and MS Paint

No 3. The Market Impact of This Decision

Here’s where it gets interesting. Just as Windows 11 was gaining momentum finally surpassing Windows 10’s market share Microsoft softened the hard deadline.

Now, we’re already seeing the effects:

• Early Statcounter data shows Windows 11 growth slowing.

• Some users are even switching back to Windows 10.

• Today, 45% of Windows users are still on Windows 10 and that means a lot of machines will be at risk once full support ends.

If the upgrade pace had continued without the extension, that number could have been halved by now, leaving far fewer people vulnerable.

No 4. What You Should Do Right Now

Here’s my honest advice don’t wait until the last minute.

• If your PC can run Windows 11: Upgrade now. It’s free for eligible users, and you’ll be more secure.

• If your PC can’t run Windows 11:  Accept the 12-month free security update extension so you’re protected until at least October 2026.

• If you plan to buy a new PC: Consider getting one sooner rather than later, especially if you rely on your computer for work or personal security.

No 5. The Bottom Line

The deadline may have moved, but the risk hasn’t gone away. Microsoft has been clear Windows 10 will become increasingly unsafe once full support ends.

Think of this extension as bonus time, not a reason to procrastinate. Use it wisely:

• Upgrade if you can

• Extend security if you can’t

• Plan for the future

When October 14, 2025, comes around, you don’t want to be left scrambling or worse, left unprotected.