The end of the cycle of Windows 10 It's already been dated and has sparked a flurry of reactions: from criticism over the impact on millions of devices to community initiatives to ensure no one is left behind. Starting in October, those who continue with this operating system will have to decide between migrate, adopt a security plan or assume more risk.
Microsoft has detailed a path for those who can't upgrade to Windows 11: the upgrade program. Extended Security Updates (ESU), with alternatives ranging from an annual payment to conditional free options, but with one common requirement that raises eyebrows: use a Microsoft account.
What will happen and what options are there?
On October 14, 2025, Windows 10 stop receiving security updates through the standard channel. This means being exposed to vulnerabilities that will go unpatched, a sensitive issue for both individuals and businesses.
For those who continue with Windows 10, Microsoft offers ESU with coverage until 13th October 2026The first year can be obtained in three ways: single payment of $30, exchange of 1.000 points from the loyalty program or by enabling backup with OneDrive.
Regardless of the method chosen, the manufacturer requires you to log in with a microsoft account to register. This option, designed to manage licenses and devices, has been the most controversial among users concerned about privacy.
In addition, Microsoft has clarified that an ESU license is associated with the user and allows protection up to 10 devices, making the plan more affordable for families, self-employed individuals, or SMEs with multiple teams.
ESU, price, mandatory account and up to 10 devices
The key point is that the Microsoft account is non-negotiable: Whether you pay, redeem points, or activate cloud backup, logging in is essential to manage your license and use it on multiple computers. You can also check More details on Windows 10 versions.
That the ESU covers 10 teams per account makes the program a reasonable option for groups with multiple PCs. Instead of paying per device, the cost is diluted by being linked to the user that is registered.
The registration appears gradually in Windows Update. If you still don't see the button, be patient: the deployment is by Phases and it may take a while to reach all computers.
- Registration route: Settings > Update & security > Windows Update.
- Button Sign up now (if the team is eligible for the program).
- Login with a Microsoft account if you use a local account.
- Choose method: payment, Rewards points or backup with OneDrive.
Tools and community: from the Toolkit to ISO 22H2
The community has moved. The Restart Project group has launched the End of Windows 10 Toolkit, a collaborative guide for those unable to upgrade. Its goal is to support the transition and minimize the risk of scams or insecure solutions. Also, check out the best options for managing devices with alternatives to Windows 10.
Another practical recommendation is to download a Official ISO Windows 10 (22H2) with the Microsoft Media Creation Tool. This will give you a legitimate installer for reinstallations or to create a Bootable USB.
- Download the Media Creation Tool from the official website.
- Choose Create installation media for another PC and select language/edition/architecture.
- Choose ISO file and save the file (approx. 5,8 GB in 64-bit).
- Optional: Create a USB with Rufus or mount the ISO and run Setup.exe.
It is preferable to avoid Third-party ISOs: They may be outdated, include problematic drivers, or worse, come with malware and backdoors. Always download from the Microsoft website. Also, if you want more information, you can consult about the end of support on devices.
Before creating the medium, make sure your connection is stable. If you need it, you can install it without activating immediately (with the classic watermark and small limitations of customization).
Criticism, usage figures and the legal battle
Windows 10 is still very present in the installed fleet - in regions such as Europe it is around more than a half Windows computers—, hence the end of support is generating debate and pressure on the transition. For those who want more details on updates and support, you can also visit complete information on dates and consequences.
The jump to Windows 11 is not trivial for everyone: it requires TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, a compatible 64-bit CPU, at least 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of storage. The tool PC HealthCheck It helps check compatibility, and some computers can enable or add TPM if the motherboard supports it. For more resources on Windows 10 news, you can also check out .
Organizations such as The Restart Project or PIRG qualify the requirements as restrictive and warn about the increase in electronic waste and the risk of less experienced users resorting to insecure patchesTo understand the impact on the market, it may also be helpful to review articles on the end of support on other devices.
The tendency of the IAMicrosoft is pushing features like Copilot and on-screen content analysis, which are making a bigger impact on Windows 11 and Copilot+ devices. This context fuels the perception that the company accelerates migrationTo better understand these functions, review the latest developments in spatial audio technologies.
A California user has taken the matter to court, accusing Microsoft of forcing the upgrade to Windows 11 to gain ground in AI. Among other things, it calls for maintaining free support for Windows 10 until its market share drops below 10%, noting that there is still tens of millions of fully functional equipment. For similar cases, you can also consult .
With this scenario, it is important to assess whether your hardware allows you to make the jump, if it is worth it for you to adopt the ESU Or if you prefer to plan a slower (but safer) transition. Checking compatibility, having the official ISO, and deciding which support plan fits your needs will prevent you from having to worry about the cost of your upgrade. unnecessary scaresFor more details on how to manage your migration, please review .
