
Microsoft has issued its most urgent warning to date for Windows 10 users who have yet to transition to Windows 11. The company delivered an unequivocal message: support for Windows 10 will cease on October 14, 2025, and those who remain on the outdated system risk falling victim to data theft, cyberattacks, and other severe consequences.
“When your OS is no longer getting those all-important security updates, it can be a bit like leaving your front door wide open,” reads the correspondence Microsoft began sending to users this week. Recipients are urged to check whether their devices are eligible for an upgrade—or to consider investing in new hardware.
According to Statcounter, approximately 800 million devices worldwide still run on Windows 10. Microsoft emphasizes that as the end-of-support date approaches, these systems will become “an easy target” for malware and cybercriminals.
The company likens security updates to “locks on your doors”: essential defenses against unauthorized intrusion. In light of March’s patch—which once again addressed zero-day vulnerabilities—the risks associated with remaining on an obsolete system continue to escalate.
For businesses and organizations, Microsoft will offer paid extended support at $30 per year, although this option has yet to be widely promoted—perhaps out of concern that many users might opt to pay for security rather than upgrade their systems.
The transition to Windows 11 remains free for eligible, licensed devices. Microsoft underscores that the combination of the new operating system and modern hardware delivers a significantly enhanced level of protection.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late,” the company cautions, “make the switch today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your digital life is secure.”