From Tuesday Microsoft will no longer offer free support as standard for Windows 10, an operating system that is used by millions of computer and laptop owners around the world.

Axar.az informs, citing Guardian, figures for September suggest four in 10 of those using Microsoft Windows worldwide were still using Windows 10, despite the introduction of its successor, Windows 11, in 2021.

What is happening to Windows 10?

After 14 October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide standard free software updates, security fixes or technical assistance to Windows 10 PCs.

This means computers running the software will still work but it will steadily become more vulnerable to viruses and malware as bugs and security holes are discovered.

Microsoft says the more up-to-date system, Windows 11, “meets the current demands for heightened security by default”.

What’s the risk?

If Windows users do nothing, they could become particularly vulnerable to hackers who are attracted to wide-scale systemic weaknesses.