Microsoft has officially ended support for its Windows 10 operating system as of October 14, 2025, a decade after its initial launch. This cessation of support means that personal computers running on Windows 10 will no longer receive free software updates, technical assistance, or crucial security fixes from Microsoft. While the operating system will continue to function, devices will be at a significantly higher risk of being exposed to viruses and malware due to the lack of security patches. Microsoft is urging users to upgrade their systems to Windows 11 to ensure their devices remain secure and efficient. However, not all older PCs meet the necessary hardware requirements for Windows 11. For users with incompatible machines, Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides continued security patches for a fee. This move affects a substantial portion of the world's computer users, as a significant percentage still relied on Windows 10 in the months leading up to the deadline. The end of support has also raised concerns about a potential increase in electronic waste as users may be forced to replace otherwise functional hardware that cannot upgrade to the newer operating system.