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Alert about a security threat affecting 400 million Windows PCs.
UPDATED Selective GLB

Microsoft faces security disaster as 400 million Windows PCs are now at risk

Microsoft Faces Security Crisis for 400 Million PCs

Microsoft warns that 400 million Windows PCs are at risk as support ends soon.

  • 400 million Windows PCs at risk
  • Windows 10 support ends October 14
  • Mandatory hardware limits for Windows 11
  • Ransomware threats increase after deadline
  • Enroll in Extended Security Update for protection
  • Windows 7 usage rising unexpectedly
  • Consider upgrading or using alternative OS

Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This marks the last day Microsoft provides security updates, bug fixes, and technical support for supported editions like Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations.[1][2][4]

Impact of End of Support

  • Windows 10 devices will continue to function after this date but become vulnerable to security risks due to no more patches or updates.
  • Without security updates, PCs are exposed to viruses, malware, and other cyber threats.[2][4]
  • Performance issues may arise as the system and applications lose compatibility with newer software environments.

Windows 10 Usage and Upgrade Path

  • About 41% of PCs still run Windows 10 as of 2025.
  • Nearly 400 million Windows 10 PCs cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to Microsoft’s strict hardware requirements.[3][1]
  • Windows 11 adoption is growing, but many users remain on Windows 10, especially those with older hardware.

Options for Users Post End of Support

Users facing the end of Windows 10 support can enroll in Microsoft’s free Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides security updates until October 13, 2026, by signing in with a Microsoft account. Alternatively, users may upgrade to Windows 11 if their device meets hardware requirements, or switch to alternative operating systems like Linux if upgrading is not possible.[1][2][3]

1. Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program

  • Microsoft offers a free consumer ESU program extending security updates until October 13, 2026 for Windows 10 version 22H2.
  • Enrollment requires a Microsoft and OneDrive account.
  • This program provides security updates only, without new features or technical support.[7][9][2][3]

2. Upgrade to Windows 11

  • Eligible PCs can upgrade for free through Windows Update.
  • Upgrade notifications appear in Windows Update settings if compatible.
  • If the PC does not meet Windows 11 requirements, upgrading isn’t officially supported.[2][3]

3. Switch to Alternative Operating Systems

  • Older PCs unable to upgrade to Windows 11 may consider Linux distributions or Chromebook OS as secure, supported alternatives.[2]

Recommendations to Stay Protected

  • Check Windows Update for upgrade eligibility:
    Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update > Check for updates
  • Backup important files to OneDrive or other cloud storage before making changes.
  • Consider enrolling in ESU if you need more time before upgrading or purchasing a new device.
  • For continued security, transition to Windows 11 or supported alternative OS promptly.[4][10][7]
Topic Details
Windows 10 End of Support October 14, 2025
Percentage Using Windows 10 Approx. 41% of PCs
Ineligible for Windows 11 Up to 400 million PCs due to hardware restrictions
Extended Security Updates Free for 1 year post-support until October 13, 2026
Upgrade Path Windows 11 (if hardware eligible) or alternative OS
Risks of Staying on Win 10 Security vulnerabilities, no patches, malware risk

Microsoft stresses upgrading for security, recommending Windows 11 for supported devices or enrolling in the consumer ESU program to help bridge the gap for unsupported machines. The deadline has passed, so immediate action is advised to avoid falling victim to security threats.[10][1][3][7][2]

Luca Fischer

Luca Fischer

Senior Technology Journalist

United States – New York Tech

Luca Fischer is a senior technology journalist with more than twelve years of professional experience specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics. He earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Columbia University in 2011, where he developed a strong foundation in data science and network security before transitioning into tech media. Throughout his career, Luca has been recognized for his clear, analytical approach to explaining complex technologies. His in-depth articles explore how AI innovations, privacy frameworks, and next-generation devices impact both industry and society. Luca’s work has appeared across leading digital publications, where he delivers detailed reviews, investigative reports, and feature analyses on major players such as Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, AMD, Intel, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Perplexity AI. Beyond writing, he mentors young journalists entering the AI-tech field and advocates for transparent, ethical technology communication. His goal is to make the future of technology understandable and responsible for everyone.

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Leander Ungeheuer

Leander Ungeheuer

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Leander Ungeheuer is a technology journalist and contributor with 4 years of experience covering consumer tech, video games, and digital privacy. He is known for hands-on product testing, detailed reviews, and clear, transparent reporting. He earned his B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Austin (2020), where he developed a strong foundation in software, hardware, and emerging digital technologies. Leander specializes in providing insightful analyses of tech products, gaming platforms, and online privacy tools, helping readers make informed decisions in the digital world. His reporting emphasizes transparency, with clear disclosures of review samples, sponsorships, and testing methodologies. Based in Bangalore, India, he contributes to Faharas NET, producing reviews, comparisons, and digital culture features across tech platforms such as Google, Nvidia, Microsoft, Xbox, Android, Nintendo, and popular social and gaming networks.

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Editorial Timeline

Revisions
— by Leander Ungeheuer
Add SEO improvements
— by Elena Voren
Initial publication.

Correction Record

Accountability
— by Leander Ungeheuer
  1. Updated Windows 10 support end date to October 14, 2025.
  2. Added exact percentage of PCs still running Windows 10 (41%).
  3. Included number of Windows 10 PCs unable to upgrade (400 million).
  4. Clarified ESU program details: free for one year, requires Microsoft account.
  5. Explained risks of no security updates after support ends.
  6. Provided clear upgrade options: Windows 11, ESU, alternative OS.
  7. Added official Microsoft references and credible sources.
  8. Broke content into concise, direct paragraphs with headers.
  9. Removed long paragraphs, emphasized immediate action.
  10. Included workflow advice for users in plain language.
  11. Added a summary table for quick facts.

FAQ

Why is Windows 10 support ending?

Microsoft is phasing out Windows 10 faster than usual.

How can users secure their PCs?

Users can enroll in ESU or upgrade to Windows 11.

What are the risks after the deadline?

Unpatched systems will be vulnerable to cyberattacks.