With the end of support for Windows 10 fast approaching, Microsoft is once again reminding customers that time is running out. On October 14, Windows 10 will reach its retirement date, marking the end of all bug fixes, security patches, and technical assistance. This includes the 2015 Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and Internet of Things (IoT) Enterprise LTSB versions. The October 2025 security update will be the final one available for these versions, after which devices will be exposed to new threats and vulnerabilities.
Microsoft is strongly recommending that users upgrade their eligible systems to Windows 11 to continue receiving essential updates and support. For those who want to move to a cloud-based solution, Windows 365 offers a way to migrate to Windows 11 in the cloud. Statcounter Global Stats reports that Windows 11 has already overtaken Windows 10 in usage, now running on over 53% of all Windows systems compared to Windows 10’s 42%. Similarly, Steam’s August 2025 survey shows that 60.39% of gamers are on Windows 11, while 35.08% remain on Windows 10.
For customers who want to delay the switch to Windows 11, Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This program costs $30 for home users and $61 per device per year for enterprise customers. However, home users can also enroll for free by using Microsoft Rewards points or by enabling Windows Backup to sync their data to the cloud. For those using Windows 10 Virtual Machines or accessing Windows 11 Cloud PCs through Windows 365, the ESU program is available at no extra cost, making it a simple way to stay protected without additional steps.
Another option for staying secure past the deadline is to switch to Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) releases. These specialized Windows editions are designed for specific devices like industrial or medical equipment and will continue to receive updates beyond October 2025. For example, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 will be supported until at least January 2027, with the IoT Enterprise edition receiving extended support even longer. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 is supported all the way until January 2029.
The end of support for Windows 10 is a major milestone, and it’s clear that Microsoft is pushing users to the latest version of its operating system. Whether you choose to upgrade to Windows 11, enroll in the ESU program, or utilize an LTSC release, it’s crucial to have a plan in place to ensure your devices remain protected after the October 14 deadline. For more information, you can use the Lifecycle Policy search tool or visit the Windows Lifecycle FAQ page on Microsoft’s website.
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