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.

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.

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.

The big moment happened with the release of the June 2022 Patch Tuesday updates, which went live last week. These are the last security patches that Internet Explorer will receive before being retired completely.

In other words, any bug or vulnerability discovered in the program will simply remain unfixed.

As for the legacy of what was the number on browser, there is much to talk.

IE, as it was lovingly known, boasted a 95% market share in 2004. But it soon started losing both market and mind share after the arrival of better and faster browsers like Firefox and Chrome. Finally, the rise of smartphones slowly destroyed its ubiquity.

Internet Explorer just could not keep up with the rapid changes in the online landscape, which were led by a few alternative choices.

Of course, things changed quite rapidly in the world of Windows as well.

Internet Explorer 11 was the last version of this famous yet infamous browser. Microsoft bundled IE11 with Windows 8.1 as a modern default option in the operating system. Though it never quite reached the heights it was expected to, it became the second most used web browser in 2014, behind IE8.

But the situation changed for the worse after the advent of Microsoft Edge in 2015, which was bundled as the default choice on Windows 10. This shiny new web browser received a new engine in 2020 — the same one that powers Chrome — and continues to grow from strength to strength.

Microsoft, for its part, says that the future of Internet Explorer is Edge. And for good reason, too, as it is now one of the more capable options in the extremely competitive web browser space.

While few people will mourn its passing, many businesses still use Internet Explorer as the underlying engine for their custom-developed software. It is these organizations that will be the most affected by this retirement.

But it goes to show that no matter how dominant a product’s position, a decline always lurks in the shadows. Once these wheels start turning, it is nearly impossible to find a way back to previous glory.

June 15, 2022, will now live in memory as the day when Internet Explorer was launched.

End of an era!

Group like the Free Software Foundation, who publicly requested Microsoft to open source Windows 7 shortly after the operating system hit retirement. And now the organization is taking things a step further with its next move.

The FSF mailed Microsoft a blank hard drive, which they say the company should use for copying the source code of Windows 7, and then send it back to the organization.

As explained:

“Microsoft can free Windows. They already have all of the legal rights necessary or the leverage to obtain them. Whether they choose to do so or not is up to them. We’re ready to give them all of the help we can. All they have to do is ask.”

But do they? Do they have all the legal rights necessary, or the leverage to obtain them?

Even if they did, it’s not like the software titan would hand over the keys to the 2009 operating system to the open source community just like so. Even if it never fails to send a message at every turn that it loves the open source world.

And this is the very angle that the FSF is playing at:

“We want them to show exactly how much love they have for the “open source” software they mention in their advertising. If they really do love free software — and we’re willing to give them the benefit of the doubt — they have the opportunity to show it to the world. We hope they’re not just capitalizing on the free software development model in the most superficial and exploitative way possible: by using it as a marketing tool to fool us into thinking that they care about our freedom.”

Yeah, right.

Of course, there is also the small matter of extended support that Microsoft has got going for Windows 7. These custom patches are still offered to enterprises that are paying for them, and the company plans to release these updates for three more years.

Fat chance, Windows 7 going open source, particularly in these circumstances.

Your thoughts? What do you make of this move? Theatrics? Or should Microsoft really go a step further to engage the open source community in this fashion? Let us know.

The target was for the upgrades to be complete by January this year.

And what’s even worse, the real figures could be even higher.

This has been revealed in a report that suggests at least a third of the UK health service computers are still powered by Windows 7, the OS that went out of support last month. Meaning, Microsoft is no longer automatically fixing any newly discovered bugs or security flaws in the platform.

Microsoft is, nevertheless, offering extended support to the organization, after the company already allowed NHS organizations to upgrade to Windows 10 for free in April 2018. With the condition that they had to upgrade these PCs no longer than January 14, 2020, the end of support date.

NHS Digital, in a statement:

“There is support from Microsoft for devices using Windows 7, in all NHS organizations, until 14 January 2021. Migration to Windows 10 is a process which will differ depending on the specific needs of the organization.

We are working closely with the NHS to offer support to migrate to Windows 10 and are on target to complete this before the extended support period ends.”

According to the figures provided, of the 1.37 million PCs and laptops that are under use by the NHS, at least 463,784 are still running the retired operating system.

Another 587,531 are thankfully on Windows 10, while a few thousand are rocking Windows 8.

Much work to be done.

Good thing is that there is no shortage of quality applications that still support this old OS.

The retirement of Windows 7 is big news right now, resulting in an uptick in users upgrading to newer operating system, companies upgrading their computers, and even software vendors outlining their support policy for the platform.

Long story short, while the fan-favorite Windows 7 will no longer receive security updates, most browsers and antivirus products will continue to support this version — at least for two more years.

All the industry leaders are in, and have confirmed that their security solutions will run on the now-retired operating system. You have the likes of Bitdefender, Kaspersky, McAfee, and Symantec, all accounted for.

Even under-fire ones like AVAST and AVG.

This and more has been revealed in this handy little list put together by German organization AV-TEST, who have confirmed that almost all the big-name vendors will continue to support Windows 7 for a while further.

You can click this here link to take a look at the full list.

Microsoft Security Essentials, however, is the only major solution that will no longer receive any more program updates, though Redmond will continue to deliver signature updates for its security solution for the foreseeable future.

Likewise, browser makers have also ensured full Windows 7 support, including Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.

And it is a fix for an issue caused by an update that was recently released for the OS.

Of course, support for this popular operating system ended on January 14. But as luck would have it, the final update for Windows 7 broke down the desktop wallpaper.

More specifically, users who deployed the KB4534310 update found that their wallpaper was being displayed as a solid black color when configured to Stretch. All editions of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 were affected.

And it took a moment for Microsoft to acknowledge the issue, but the company was quick to note that the hotfix for the bug would only be provided to organizations who had paid up for extended support of the now retired OS.

Well, it appears that the software titan has had a little change of heart.

The firm has updated the patch notes, claiming that it is working on a resolution for this bug and will provide an update in an upcoming release, which will be released to all customers running Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1.

In other words, everyone.

Additionally, a few temporary fixes are also listed. Namely changing the wallpaper configuration to another option like Fill, Fit, Tile, or Center. Or, if you are experiencing this issue, you can try your luck by using a wallpaper whose dimensions match the resolution of your desktop.

Now, while the exact date for the update has not been confirmed, there is a fair chance that this hotfix will see daylight on the next Patch Tuesday.

February 11, that is.

All’s well that ends in a well, I always say!

Now, the company plans to make its notification prompts even bigger.

Full-screen pop-ups will start show up on Windows 7 PC’s to warn about the end of life of Windows 7.

The full-screen notification will warn that “your Windows 7 PC is out of support,” and it will start appearing on January 15th, the day after support ends.

Microsoft will warn Windows 7 users who haven’t upgraded that PCs are “more vulnerable to viruses and malware” due to a lack of security and software updates and no tech support.

There will be three options to dismiss the message, including the ability to remind later, learn more, or don’t remind again. The full-screen prompt will remain on the screen until a Windows 7 user has done something with it.

Windows 7 support will end on January 14th, 2020, and Microsoft has been promoting Windows 10 as the main upgrade path for businesses and consumers.