Urgent warning to Microsoft users before Windows 10 support ends within hours
Windows users still using the older system have been told to upgrade to stay safe (Picture: Getty/Metro)
Millions of Windows 10 users are urged to take action before Microsoft ends support for the operating system.
The tech giant has announced that customer support for the decade-old operating system will end today – October 14.
Around 5 million users are thought to be still relying on Windows 10, which came out in 2015.
You might think – what’s the problem with continuing to use Windows 10 without support?
Today marks the end of an era for Windows 10 after a decade of service (Picture: NurPhoto/Getty Images)
The biggest threat is a cyber attack as Microsoft will stop releasing automatic security and feature updates today, which could leave users vulnerable to bugs.
Some core functions might also stop working on your PC or laptop without an upgrade.
Microsoft’s vice president, Yusuf Mehdi said: ‘Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates.
‘As security threats evolve and adapt, so must our operating systems and hardware. Because of this, we designed Windows 11 to be the most secure version of Windows ever — by default and design — to help you stay ahead of those risks.’
Here is a breakdown of what Windows 10 customers can do to stay safe.
Upgrading to Windows 11
Those with a new enough computer could upgrade to the newer Windows 11 for free. You can find this option under Settings, by clicking Update & Security, and then Windows Update.
If your computer is new enough, you might be able to upgrade to Windows 11 for free (Picture: Shutterstock / Hadrian)
However, if your PC predates Windows 10, it is unlikely your hardware will support Windows 11, experts at Which? warned.
Buy a new Windows 11 PC or laptop
If you find that your trusty computer won’t be able to run Windows 11, your only option might be to buy a newer PC or laptop.
Even major brands offer refurbished options, often with a warranty, if you don’t want to get a new one.
Some retailers might offer a discount on new tech if you recycle your old laptop with them.
Extend your Windows 10 licence
Windows 10 operating system support and updates end today (Picture: Bloomberg/Getty Images)
This might be an option if you have the latest available version Windows 10 already.
Microsoft has launched an extended security updates (ESU) programme, which users with a Microsoft account can manually enrol on.
However, the ESU option is not automatic, so customers need to make sure they have enrolled.
To find this option, go to Start, Settings, Update & Security, then click Check for updates.
If your laptop is eligible, you should see an Enrol now option under ‘Windows 10 support ends in October 2025.’
Urgent warning over 16 apps which can empty bank accounts if not updated News Microsoft is undergoing a major software change, which risks exposing users to security threats, the tech giant has warned (Picture: Shutterstock) A warning has been issued for anyone using Microsoft products to update their apps as soon as possible before a major software change. The tech giant will no longer…
Aldi issues urgent recall on popular ice cream over health risk News Anyone who bought the product can take it back for a full refund (Picture: Getty) Customers who bought a popular ice cream tub at Aldi were warned to take it back to the shop, as it could be a health risk for some. The store has recalled Gianni’s Cheeky Monkey…
Stephen Baldwin Posts Video With Alec Baldwin Hours Before Crashing Into a Tree Entertainment On Monday, October 13, Alec Baldwin and his brother Stephen Baldwin were involved in a car crash. Alecâs white Range Rover crashed head-on into a tree while in The Hamptoms, Page Six reports. Although the car was damaged, Alec and Stephen were able to walk away from the scene. Alec…
California and Arizona negotiators targeting Colorado’s water users should look closer to home (Editorial) News Arizona and California’s chief water negotiators are coming for Colorado in a blistering public pressure campaign aimed at getting upper basin states to capitulate. In an interview with the L.A. Times, the negotiator for California accused the upper basin states of Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico of clinging to…
Jeremy Clarkson rushed to hospital 9 hours after branding NHS ‘creaking old monster’ Entertainment Jeremy Clarkson has opened up about a recent health scare (Picture: James Veysey/Shutterstock) Jeremy Clarkson has revealed he was hospitalised just hours after publishing a column criticising the NHS. The Clarkson’s Farm star hit out at the National Health Service over the years, and most recently suggested it was ‘just…
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
