Consumer Reports is calling on Microsoft to continue providing free support—including security updates—for Windows 10 PCs until a greater portion of users have successfully upgraded to Windows 11, rather than strictly enforcing the October 14, 2025 end-of-support date. The concern stems from the disparate readiness among users to meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements, which could leave many exposed once Windows 10 stops receiving updates. Independent sources outline Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which offers consumers a one‐year, paid bridge until October 13, 2026 for critical security fixes only; users must often sign in with a Microsoft account, resolve version‐update prerequisites, and accept limits (no new features, etc.). Meanwhile, Microsoft has reaffirmed that while general Windows 10 support ends in 2025, some essential services—such as Microsoft 365 app security updates—will persist through 2028 despite feature updates ceasing earlier.
Sources: Petri IT Knowledgebase, Microsoft, The Verge
Key Takeaways
– Microsoft ends free security and feature support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, though users can pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU) to keep receiving critical security patches through October 2026.
– The ESU program has constraints: it excludes feature enhancements, technical support, and often requires users to use a Microsoft account; plus, eligibility depends on having updated the system to the latest Windows 10 version, etc.
– Even post-2025, security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will continue through 2028, though feature updates for those apps will end earlier (e.g. in 2026 for many users).
In-Depth
As October 14, 2025 draws near, Microsoft is preparing to officially end longstanding support for Windows 10: no more free updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance for most users. That includes the cessation of security updates from Windows Update, which raises real concerns about exposure to vulnerabilities for those still on Windows 10. In response, Microsoft has made available an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for consumers, which allows eligible devices to receive critical and important security updates—but only until October 13, 2026. What ESU won’t cover are new features, nonessential updates, or general tech support; users must meet prerequisites like having the latest version (22H2) installed, and be signed in with a Microsoft account.
Consumer Reports is saying that even this arrangement isn’t enough. Their stance: Microsoft should keep Windows 10 fully supported (for free) until a majority of users have upgraded to Windows 11, especially since many computers don’t meet the new OS’s hardware requirements. The call reflects concerns about digital equity—some users might lack resources or compatible hardware to make the jump immediately, and forcing them off free support could leave them vulnerable.
Meanwhile, Microsoft is maintaining certain lifelines beyond the ESU window. Security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 are still promised through 2028, even if feature updates will be stripped back earlier for many users. Likewise, critical services like updates to Edge browser and WebView2 are expected to continue past the end of Windows 10’s full support for some period. Users must weigh whether to enroll in ESU, upgrade hardware, switch to Windows 11 where possible, or explore alternatives. The upcoming deadline means now is the time to plan.