A critical alert has been issued to Microsoft's vast user base, with a potential security crisis looming for millions. Tomorrow marks a significant shift as Microsoft officially ends support for Windows 10, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats. With an estimated 21 million UK users still relying on Windows 10, the risks are real and widespread.
But here's where it gets controversial: Microsoft is offering a free upgrade to Windows 11 for compatible devices, but many older machines may not qualify. Users can also opt for extended security updates for the next year, but after that, it's a choice between buying a new computer or taking a hacking risk.
Windows, the world's most popular operating system, is used by an incredible 1.4 billion devices globally. As of July 2025, an alarming 43% of these devices were still running Windows 10, according to Statcounter.
Windows 10, released in 2015, has received periodic updates for bug fixes and security. These security updates are crucial, addressing known weaknesses in the system. Without them, cybercriminals can exploit these vulnerabilities to access personal data.
When support ends for Windows 10, these security flaws will remain unpatched, leaving any computer running the software exposed. A Which? poll in September revealed that a quarter of the 21 million Windows 10 users had no plans to upgrade to Windows 11.
So, how can you update to Windows 11? If your computer is compatible, the upgrade is free and can be done through the 'Settings' menu in Windows 10. Simply go to 'Update & Security', click 'Windows Update', and select 'Check for updates'. If Windows 11 is available, you can download and install it.
Lisa Barber, editor of Which? Tech, urges users to take action: 'If you have a home laptop or PC running Windows, now is the time to check your version and plan accordingly. Inaction could lead to increased vulnerability to hackers and scams.'
For devices incompatible with Windows 11, users can opt for 'Extended Security Updates' to receive limited security patches for a year. However, enrolment is not automatic, and there's a cost involved for commercial organisations.
The Restart Project, an e-waste charity, estimates that around 400 million computers worldwide will lose software support tomorrow, all of which will eventually need replacing. This could generate over 700 million kg of e-waste.
Fiona Dear, Co-Director of The Restart Project, comments: 'That's a lot of perfectly functional computers that Microsoft wants their owners to replace.'
The charity suggests that Microsoft could avert this e-waste crisis by restoring automatic updates for Windows 10.
Microsoft has been approached for comment on this matter.
The rise of Microsoft has been nothing short of remarkable, with a journey that began on April 4, 1975, when Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded the company. Since then, Microsoft has launched iconic products like Windows 95, Xbox, and Office 365, and in April 2019, it became the third company to reach a market capitalisation value of over $1 trillion.
