The end of Windows 10 is now just 3 weeks away, and the warnings for all those who won’t or can’t upgrade to Windows 11 are intensifying. The latest data says a staggering 600 million users are still using the OS as the October 14 deadline closes in.
This is unprecedented and has alarming security implications.
Of those 600 million users, it’s thought between 200 and 400 million do not have PCs capable of the upgrade. Windows 11 mandates certain security hardware to install and Microsoft is not backing down on the hurdle, which has been heavily criticized.
The official advice for users with PCs that can’t upgrade is to recycle them now and buy newer hardware. All others should upgrade to Windows 11 before October 14. There are some niche workarounds to update older PCs, but they’re not for everyday users.
There is also the option to extend security updates for 12 months. This is free for account holders who save settings to OneDrive, or can be bought for $30 or some Microsoft Rewards points. It is unknown how many of the 600 million have signed up, especially given the enrollment wizard is still rolling out even now.
Microsoft confirms its normal monthly security update in October will be the last available for Windows 10 users not opted into the 12-month ESU. Consumer Reports (amongst others) says “Microsoft should do the right thing and continue supporting Windows 10 without charging consumers.” No sign of that yet.
You must not miss October’s security update. As Microsoft explains, on your PC “Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Next to Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available, set the toggle to On.” You should do this now.
You will still get the update if this is toggled off, albeit not as quickly.
To check for updates manually, “Select Start, go to Settings > Update & Security Windows Update > select Check for Windows updates. If any updates are available for you, select Download & install. Your device will download and install the updates. If prompted to do so, restart your device to apply the updates.”
Once you have October’s update there’s an alarming clock ticking. When November rolls around, any critical vulnerabilities will not be fixed and your PC will be exposed.
“Arguing that Windows 11 is an essential upgrade to boost cybersecurity while also leaving hundreds of millions of machines more vulnerable to cyber attacks is hypocritical,” Consumer Reports has told the company, no response as yet.
For 600 million users, this is a critical three weeks and you must act now. Make sure that update toggle is on and enroll into the ESU. Or upgrade to Windows 11.
