Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in one year, marking a major milestone as the operating system reaches end of life (EOL). This means no more security updates, technical support, or bug fixes. Users who continue with Windows 10 after this date risk further exposure to security vulnerabilities as the system will no longer receive patches.

In particular, the latest data from stats counter suggest that Windows 10 is still in demand with a market share of 62.71%, while Windows 11 has only reached 33.1% adoption three years after its launch. Meanwhile, Windows 7 still has a loyal following, with 2.81% of users sticking with the older OS.

What does end of support mean?

Once support ends, Microsoft will stop providing security updates, meaning any future vulnerabilities discovered in the Windows 10 platform will remain unpatched. This is critical because unpatched systems are highly susceptible to malware, viruses, and other forms of cyberattacks. Over time, third-party software, drivers, and even peripherals will gradually stop being supported on Windows 10, similar to when Windows XP and Windows 7 reached their EOL.

Additionally, the lack of ongoing updates means that system performance could degrade as new hardware and software become incompatible with Windows 10. While antivirus software can mitigate some risks, it won't be able to protect against deep, kernel-level system vulnerabilities.

What are your alternatives?

There are a number of alternatives for those still using Windows 10 who want to explore their options in the face of technological evolution and market demands. One of the most straightforward and convenient solutions is to upgrade to Windows 11. This upgrade is free for Windows 10 users with compatible hardware, which is an easy way to ensure continued access to security updates and new features that Microsoft will continue to develop in the coming years. However, it is crucial to note that Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements compared to its predecessor, which could leave older computers out.

For those whose current devices don't meet the requirements for Windows 11, purchasing a new PC that comes with Windows 11 pre-installed is a viable alternative. Modern computers not only ensure compatibility with future OS updates, but also offer access to advanced features like Copilot+, which benefits from the use of artificial intelligence to improve the user experience.

On the other hand, for those who prefer to continue using Windows 10 for a longer period, Microsoft has announced that it will offer extended support for an additional fee for three more years, thus extending support until October 2028. This option is primarily aimed at business customers who require continued stability and security in their daily operations. However, the cost of this extended support for individual users has not yet been revealed, which could influence the decision of many.

It is important to keep in mind that this support will eventually come to an end as well. In this regard, migrating to alternative operating systems such as Linux or macOS presents itself as another viable option. Linux distributions are generally free and have the ability to run on a wide variety of hardware, even on older computers, although they require the user to be willing to face a learning curve to adapt to the environment. On the other hand, opting to switch to macOS can be a more expensive solution, but it offers a stable and highly optimized environment, especially attractive to those looking for long-term software support and a consistent user experience.

In conclusion, carefully evaluating personal needs and the characteristics of each alternative is essential to make an informed and strategic decision, ensuring continuity, security and operational efficiency in the ever-changing digital world.