Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, but users can purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) for continued security updates. Microsoft 365 apps will not be supported on Windows 10 post-deadline, pushing users towards Windows 11 for better performance. While Microsoft Office Home & Business and Home & Student versions remain unaffected, users of Windows 10 must upgrade to maintain compatibility with Microsoft 365. ESU for one year costs $61 and requires running Windows 10 version 22H2.
End of Support for Windows 10: What You Need to Know
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially discontinue support for Windows 10, a fact that has been long anticipated. However, for those who are willing to invest, Microsoft will offer security updates for Windows 10 beyond this date. Recently, the tech giant shared some information that might leave many loyal Windows 10 users scratching their heads.
Implications for Microsoft 365 Users
According to a recent support page, Microsoft states that “Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be supported on Windows 10 after the end of support on October 14, 2025.” This announcement has raised concerns among users about the future compatibility of Microsoft 365 with Windows 10.
To ensure optimal performance and reliability, Microsoft strongly suggests upgrading to Windows 11. They explain that using Microsoft 365 on unsupported older operating systems could lead to significant performance and reliability challenges over time. As a valued subscriber of Microsoft 365, they emphasize the importance of a stable productivity experience, urging users to transition to Windows 11 before the end of Windows 10 support.
Interestingly, the support page also mentions, “However, if you license the ESU program for Windows 10, then Windows 10 is still a Windows operating system!” This statement appears contradictory, creating further confusion among users. While Microsoft reiterates that support for Windows 10 will cease on October 14, 2025, the mention of the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program implies that Microsoft 365 might continue to function on Windows 10, albeit without new updates.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft Office Home & Business and Microsoft Office Home & Student are not impacted by this restriction. Unlike Microsoft 365, these versions are purchased outright with a one-time payment, ensuring ongoing functionality without the subscription model’s limitations.
Options for Windows 10 Users
If you’re content with your Windows 10 setup and wish to continue using it securely after October 14, 2025, you’ll need to purchase the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU). This will ensure that your system remains supported, albeit only receiving essential security updates without any new features.
Currently, the pricing information available is specific to the U.S. market, where the ESU for one year costs $61. This would provide security updates until October 2026, with the stipulation that your system must run Windows 10 version 22H2. Microsoft intends to limit ESU for Windows 10 to just one year.
As for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1, Microsoft has already ceased support for these operating systems as of January 12, 2016, and January 10, 2023, respectively. Consequently, Microsoft 365 applications will no longer be supported on these outdated systems. Users are advised to transition to a supported version of Windows to maintain compatibility with Microsoft 365.