With its intuitive interface, robust security features, and many improvements over its predecessors, it quickly became the go-to operating system for millions. However, as with all good things, the time has come for Windows 10 to start its journey towards the end of its support lifecycle.

This article will explore what this means for you, the consumer, and how to prepare to transition to a newer operating system.

Understanding End of Support

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand what “end of support” actually means. Microsoft provides two types of support for its operating systems: mainstream support and extended support.

• Mainstream Support: This includes all the primary updates, including security updates, new features, and performance improvements. Mainstream support for Windows 10 ended on October 13, 2020.
• Extended Support: This phase focuses primarily on security updates and bug fixes without adding new features. Windows 10 will end its extended support on October 14, 2025.

After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide updates or security patches for Windows 10. Any vulnerabilities discovered after this date will not be patched, exposing your system to security risks.

Why Is Microsoft Ending Support for Windows 10?

Several factors drive the decision to end support for an operating system.

Firstly, it allows Microsoft to focus its resources on newer technologies and operating systems, ensuring they remain competitive and secure. Additionally, it encourages users to migrate to newer versions, which typically offer enhanced features, better performance, and improved security.

Windows 11, released in October 2021, represents the next step in Microsoft’s vision for the future of personal computing. With its advanced features, such as a redesigned user interface, improved performance, and enhanced security measures, Windows 11 aims to provide a more modern and efficient computing experience.

What Are the Implications for Consumers?

The end of support for Windows 10 carries several implications for consumers. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed.

1. Security Risks – Perhaps the most significant concern is the increased security risk. Once Microsoft stops providing security updates, any new vulnerabilities discovered in Windows 10 will remain unpatched, making your system an easy target for cybercriminals and malware.
2. Software Compatibility – As time progresses, software developers will gradually stop supporting Windows 10. This means that new applications and updates to existing software may not be compatible with Windows 10, potentially leading to issues with functionality or performance.
3. Hardware Compatibility – Similar to software, hardware manufacturers will also start focusing on newer operating systems. This could result in a lack of driver support for new hardware, making it challenging to use the latest peripherals and devices with Windows 10.
4. Technical Support – While Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10, third-party technical support may still be available. However, this support will likely come at a cost and may not be as comprehensive as the support provided by Microsoft during the extended support phase.

Preparing for the Transition

Given the potential risks and challenges associated with the end of Windows 10 support, it’s crucial to start preparing for the transition to a newer operating system. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Evaluate Your Current System – Evaluate your current system to determine if it meets the requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft has provided a tool called the PC Health Check app, which can help you assess whether your system is compatible with Windows 11. You can start planning for the upgrade if your system meets the requirements. If not, you may need to consider purchasing a new device.
2. Backup Your Data – Before making any changes, ensure all your important data is backed up. This includes documents, photos, videos, and any other critical files. Using cloud storage solutions or external hard drives can provide extra protection for your data.
3. Plan Your Upgrade – Once you’ve determined that your system is compatible with Windows 11, plan your upgrade. Microsoft offers a free upgrade to Windows 11 for eligible Windows 10 users. You can check for updates through Windows Update or download installation media from Microsoft’s website.
4. Consider Alternatives – If your system is incompatible with Windows 11 and you’re not ready to invest in a new device, consider alternative operating systems. Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Fedora can provide a secure and modern computing experience without new hardware.
5. Stay Informed – Stay informed about the latest developments regarding Windows 10 and Windows 11. Microsoft regularly updates its support documentation and provides guidance on making the transition as smooth as possible. For the latest information, visit the [Microsoft Support](https://support.microsoft.com/) website.

Making the Transition

Transitioning to a new operating system can be daunting, but it can be a smooth and rewarding experience with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Check for Compatibility – Use the PC Health Check app to verify if your current system is compatible with Windows 11. The minimum system requirements include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, and TPM version 2.0. For a detailed list of requirements, visit the Windows 11 specifications page.
2. Backup Your Data – Ensure all your important data is backed up to an external drive or cloud storage. This step is crucial to prevent data loss during the upgrade process.
3. Download Windows 11 – If your system is compatible, you can download Windows 11 through Windows Update. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. If Windows 11 is available for your device, you’ll see an option to download and install it.
4. Perform the Upgrade – Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade process. The installation will take some time, and your computer may restart several times. Once the upgrade is complete, you’ll be greeted with the new Windows 11 interface.
5. Restore Your Data – After the upgrade is complete, restore your data from the backup and ensure that all your files and applications are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

The end of support for Windows 10 marks the beginning of a new era in personal computing. While it brings certain challenges, it also opens the door to new opportunities with Windows 11 and other modern operating systems.

By preparing in advance and making informed decisions, you can ensure a smooth transition and continue to enjoy a secure and efficient computing experience.

As we approach October 14, 2025, remember the importance of staying updated and proactive. Whether you upgrade to Windows 11 or explore other options, the key is to plan ahead and make the transition as seamless as possible.

For more detailed information and guidance, visit the official Microsoft Support website, which provides regular updates and insights on technology trends.

Stay informed, stay secure, and embrace the future of computing.

Chrome and Firefox both kept working and getting updates for the old platforms, even as Microsoft forged ahead with Edge and dropped support for old browsers.

But if you are still rocking these operating systems, then listen up. Google has announced its intention to end support for Chrome early next year on both these older versions of the operating systems—the fan favorite Windows 7 and the problem-solver Windows 8.1.

The search engine giant made this formal in a post on its Chrome Help Blog:

“You’ll need to ensure your device is running Windows 10 or later to continue receiving future Chrome releases. This matches Microsoft’s end of support for Windows 7 ESU and Windows 8.1 extended support on January 10th, 2023.”

This is in line with the tentative release of Chrome 110 on February 7, 2023, and Microsoft’s looming retirement date for Windows 8.1.

While Google Chrome will continue working after the update — and well, old versions of the web browser will continue to be available on several websites that host them — it will no longer receive any feature updates and security patches on devices powered by these operating systems.

This retirement, therefore, increases the risks that users and businesses face falling prey to online attacks if they continue to use Chrome on Windows 7 and 8.1.

And there are hundreds of millions of them out there.

Windows 7 may have reached the end of support back in January 2022, but it still commands a 10.68% share of the desktop market worldwide. Windows 8.1, on the other hand, holds a measly 2.7% slice of the pie. All figures via StatCounter.

With this in mind, it makes sense to start preparing for the migration if you are one of these users.

Right about now.

This was sandwiched between the arrival of new-generation processors, the Zen 4-based AMD Ryzen 7000 series, and, of course, Intel’s 13th-generation Core lineup, which goes by the codename Raptor Lake.

There is no better time than now to make some updates to the processor support for the OS.

Although the hardware requirements for Windows 11 have not changed much since the operating system’s unveiling, Microsoft has added a separate list of CPUs for the 22H2 update.

So, in case you were hoping that currently unsupported hardware would suddenly be supported, that ain’t happening, chief!

Nevertheless, you can view the updated list of supported processors for Windows 11 version 22H2 on their respective pages for the breed of CPUs.

• Intel
• AMD
• Qualcomm

This is likely to be continually updated as new processors make their way out in the wild or maybe even when older chips are removed from the list due to the sudden discovery of flaws and vulnerabilities.

You never can tell these days!

Still, that does not stop people from running the latest and greatest version of Windows on terribly outdated hardware.

Some even exclaim that it runs like magic!

The long and short of which is that, like the original OS, the 2022 Update also has a lifecycle of 24 months.

This support window is valid for systems running the operating system’s consumer-oriented SKUs, such as Home, Pro, Pro Education, Pro for Workstations, and SE. Those running the Enterprise and Education flavors of Windows 11 can enjoy one extra year of support.

You can take a look at the support documentation for the nitty gritty.

But it is now official that the Windows 11 2022 Update — formerly known as 22H2 — will reach its end of life on October 14, 2024 for consumers. Enterprise customers get a bump to October 14, 2025, as far as the support period is concerned.

Interestingly, Microsoft is in no mood to tell when it plans to stop supporting Windows 11 in general. This is at a time when rumors are rife about Windows 12, which is said to be in development.

Redmond downplays it by only saying “In Support”.

It is, however, crystal clear on Windows 10, confirming that this older version of the operating system is set to retire on October 14, 2025. This is, of course, nothing new, and the software titan has maintained this stance for a while now.

Speaking of Windows 10, it would be remiss not to mention the fact that its 21H1 version is heading for retirement at breakneck speed. This release will get its last update on December 13, 2022.

So, overall, we have a mostly clear picture of the various versions of the platform and when they will sail into the West.

Three, to be exact.

Microsoft has started notifying users who are rocking this version of the operating system that it plans to stop supporting all editions of Windows 10 21H1 on December 13, 2022. Beyond this date, the operating system will not receive any patches or security updates.

Customers, therefore, will be forced to opt for a newer release like 21H2.

Or, you know, Windows 11.

Given that this OS version is about to reach the end of support, Microsoft will most likely start forcing these users to update to a newer, supported version of the operating system.

That’s because the company allows Windows users to stay on their preferred release as long as it remains supported. But a few months before retirement, the inevitable migration process kicks in automatically.

According to the June 2022 report from AdDuplex, Windows 10 21H1 still commands a very respectable market share—around 21%. This means that a big chunk of these users will either update their operating system themselves or watch Microsoft do it for them.

Windows 10 itself, however, is not in danger of reaching the end of support. Redmond has confirmed plans to support it until October 14, 2025.

If you have been monitoring the servicing strategy of the two modern operating systems, you might be aware that Redmond releases mainly two types of Windows updates: feature updates and quality updates.

Each one delivers a different set of bug fixes and features.

Quality updates can not be skipped. For example, the Patch Tuesday updates released on the second Tuesday of every month are installed automatically unless you manually pause their deployment using Windows Update or Windows Update for Business.

Of course, pausing or skipping updates comes with its own set of challenges, primarily an increase in the size of the update packages.

For better performance of the Windows Update service, Microsoft has decided to start removing older quality updates from servers. These removed updates will expire automatically and appear as expired updates.

As an example, this is one such update that has recently expired:

The idea here is to improve the Windows Update’s performance while reducing update cache size.

As older updates are superseded with newer ones, this also results in shorter scan times. An expired package will not appear in Windows Update scan results, which can also cut down on internet data usage.

This is an important consideration for those who have limited internet connectivity.

The software titan plans to evaluate Windows updates for expiration on a regular basis. The expired status will appear on the official Microsoft support website, as shown in the above screenshot.

Guess they were serious about offering a completely modern usage experience with Windows 11.

To prepare this small user base, Microsoft has decided to send them messages similar to the ones that those using Windows 7 received before its end of support. These notifications about the operating system’s upcoming death will go live sometime in July.

The more things change, the more they stay the same!

Redmond officially confirmed this, revealing that users will have options to receive notifications later, receive them after January 10, 2023, or learn more. The latter choice will guide them to a support article that explains what the end of support means and what they can do.

This version of the operating system reached the end of mainstream support a few years ago, on January 9, 2018, to be exact.

Distressingly, Microsoft does not currently offer free upgrade paths from Windows 8.1 to Windows 11 or even Windows 10. This means that these folks need to consider buying a license for a newer release.

Of course, Microsoft recommends that you purchase a new computer that fully supports these newer operating systems because those built for Windows 8.1 are designed with technology that is about 10 years old.

Windows 8.1 was released on October 17, 2023, after all.

Interestingly, this version of the OS was the only major Windows release that Microsoft allowed you to download from the Microsoft Store — similar to how Apple updates macOS.

This version was clearly an attempt by the company to fix the mess that was the initial launch of Windows 8. It brought back and fixed a number of problems that broke the platform, including the traditional Start Menu and the option to boot directly into the desktop.

It also included Internet Explorer 11, which saw its final days last month.

But apparently, not all platforms.

That is because IE will continue to be supported on some Windows devices, even as Redmond warns that all future operating system releases where the browser will live on would no longer include the app.

Internet Explorer will be available on some versions of Windows, particularly those used in critical environments.

As Microsoft makes clear:

“For certain versions of Windows currently in-support and used in critical environments, we will continue to support Internet Explorer on those versions until they go out of support.

These include all currently in-support Windows 10 LTSC releases (including IoT) and all Windows Server versions, as well as Windows 10 China Government Edition, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7 with Extended Security Updates (ESUs). Future versions of these editions will not include Internet Explorer. Developers who rely on the underlying MSHTML (Trident) platform and COM controls on Windows will also continue to be supported on all Windows platforms.”

Leading the charge here is Windows 7, which, although not officially supported, continues to be available on devices configured for the ESU program.

And then there is the IE mode that is bundled with Microsoft Edge, which should be the go-to destination for anyone who still uses Internet Explorer. This mode offers perfect compatibility and a set of tools to load apps without having to be stuck with an ancient browser.

The IE mode will continue to be supported until at least 2029, as explained by Microsoft.

As in, Windows 7, 8, and 8.1.

If you are, for one reason or another, still rocking these versions of Windows, and want to use the desktop app to manage and sync your files up in the cloud, then upgrading to a new version of the OS will be must.

You have two choices here — the trusty old Windows 10 or the shiny new Windows 11.

Starting the very first day of 2022, the OneDrive desktop application will stop receiving updates on these machines. If you still want to use the program beyond this January 1 date, then you can for a little while further. That’s because cloud sync will only go away on March 1, 2022.

This is what the company had to say on the matter:

“If you are currently using one of these operating systems, we recommend upgrading your operating system to either Windows 10 or Windows 11 to avoid disruption. For machines that do not meet system requirements for Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating system upgrade, you can back up and protect your files by manually uploading them to OneDrive on the web, and continue to access, edit, and share your files on all your devices.”

Deal?

If no deal, then there is a way for people who can’t upgrade to reasons like system requirements or lack of new hardware to maintain their files on the cloud storage service. They will simply need to do things manually, which involves syncing their files using the OneDrive web interface.

This announcement, obviously, only affects consumers, as business users of the OneDrive desktop app will have their support period aligned with the lifecycle of the version of Windows that they are using.

Both supported and unsupported.

Naturally, some people are hoping to install the new OS on their Macs, not necessarily using Parallels for emulation, but as a native option on these sleek devices. However, they will not be pleased to know that Microsoft does not reinforce this notion.

According to this report, Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 running on the M1 chip is not a supported scenario despite the operating system still supporting Apple silicon via emulation software.

Apple, of course, launched its ARM-based M1 chip last fall, and it smokes the competition when it comes to performance. Rumor has it that the fruity company is gearing up to launch the M1X update that would power a new generation of Mac computers.

This successor chip could be unveiled in October as part of a second Apple event this fall.

And while the news that running Windows 11 natively on these devices remains an unsupported scenario is not exactly what these users might want to hear, it remains to be seen how the new OS will run on these machines.

Even if Microsoft does not officially support such a notion.