Time is ticking fast, and there’s now just 24 hours until Windows 10 is sent to the history books. The deadline for Microsoft’s end of free support is tomorrow, October 14, 2025, and that means there are just hours left before PCs still using this ageing operating system become at greater risk of bugs and worrying cyber attacks.
Microsoft has been warning users for over a year about the closure, with the company saying, “The October 2025 monthly security update will be the last update available. After this date, devices running these versions will no longer receive monthly security and preview updates containing protections from the latest security threats.”
Now, you might think that most people will have already switched over to Windows 11, but it seems that millions continue to have Windows 10 installed in their devices.
Latest data from the consumer experts at Which? estimates that over 2 million people still own and use a laptop or computer running Windows 10 in the UK.
More Worryingly, Which? found a quarter of people (26 percent) running Windows 10 intend to continue using it after updates cease – which could ultimately leave them vulnerable to security attacks and scam attempts in the future.
If that’s you, it’s highly recommended that you make the jump to Windows 11 or sign up for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESUs), which will keep older PCs safe via regular patches.
“For the first time ever, we’re introducing an ESU program for personal use as well,” said Executive Vice President, Consumer Chief Marketing Officer at Windows
You can enrol for free if you agree to back up your Windows settings to OneDrive. Otherwise, you can redeem Microsoft loyalty points (if you have earned any), or pay a one-off fee.
To get ESU on your Windows 10 device:
• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If your device meets the prerequisites, you’ll see a link to enroll in ESU.
• Once you select Enroll now you’ll start the ESU enrollment. If you are signed into Windows with a local account, you will be prompted to sign into your Microsoft account. If you are already backing up your PC Settings, you will see a prompt to enroll your device.
• If you aren’t backing up your Windows settings, you can choose if you want to begin backing up your settings, redeem Rewards or make a one-time purchase to enroll in ESU.
With tomorrow’s deadline closing in fast, now is not a time to ignore things, as it could put your PC and data at risk.
“Our research suggests millions of people may be unprepared for the phasing out of Windows 10 next week, “Lisa Barber, Editor of Which? Tech.
“If you have a home laptop or PC running Windows, now is the time to check which version you’re using and if it’s Windows 10 or older, make a plan of action.
“If you don’t act, you could become more vulnerable to hackers and scams.
“Luckily, in most cases there will be a free and easy solution available to you – whether that’s upgrading to Windows 11, or, if your computer is older and not compatible, opting for the one-year free extension to Windows 10 as a temporary measure. After this you can either switch to a different, free operating system such as Linux, or buy a new device compatible with the latest version of Windows. The Which? website has free, step by step advice to make the transition simple.”
