Millions of PCs face cybersecurity risk — here’s what you need to do

Mumbai: Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving millions of PCs vulnerable to cyberattacks and data loss. Users are urged to take immediate action to secure their systems.

End of support details

As of October 14, Microsoft will cease providing security updates and patches for Windows 10. This decision leaves unsupported systems exposed to potential exploits, as cybercriminals often target operating systems immediately after their official support expiration. Industry experts warn that Windows 10 could quickly become a prime target due to its massive user base.

The situation is further complicated by the hardware requirements for the succeeding Windows 11 update. Reports indicate that nearly 200 million computers worldwide running Windows 10 are ineligible for the free Windows 11 upgrade, primarily due to unsupported hardware that does not meet Microsoft’s strict specifications.

Recommended actions for users

1. Upgrade to Windows 11

For devices that meet the minimum hardware requirements, upgrading to Windows 11 is the recommended course of action. Users can check their PC’s compatibility and initiate the upgrade through the Windows Update tool or by downloading the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s official website.

2. Enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program

If upgrading to Windows 11 is not feasible, users can consider enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This program provides critical security patches for an additional year, allowing users more time to transition to a supported operating system. However, it’s important to note that the ESU program does not include technical support or software updates beyond security patches.

3. Explore alternative operating systems

For users with older hardware that cannot support Windows 11, exploring alternative operating systems like Linux-based distributions may be a viable option. Linux offers various lightweight distributions that can breathe new life into older PCs, providing continued functionality without the need for costly hardware upgrades.

4. Consider purchasing a new PC

If upgrading the existing system is not practical, purchasing a new PC that comes pre-installed with Windows 11 can be a long-term solution. Newer systems are more likely to meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11 and will receive full support and updates from Microsoft.

Conclusion

With the end of support for Windows 10 imminent, users must take proactive steps to secure their systems. Whether upgrading to Windows 11, enrolling in the ESU program, exploring alternative operating systems, or purchasing a new PC, timely action is crucial to protect against potential cybersecurity threats.