Windows 10 end of support

Guy Martin.

As with all Windows and Mac operating systems, an end of support is inevitable. Windows XP ended on April 8, 2014. Windows Vista ended on April 11, 2017 (thankfully). Windows 8.1 ended on Jan. 10, 2023. And now, Windows 10 support comes to an end on Oct. 14, 2025.

Now, end of support does not mean end of life. In fact, after the support ends, you can still use Windows 10 on your computer. What end of support means, is that you will no longer get security updates from Microsoft. Security updates are patches/fixes for flaws that are discovered in the operating system. These flaws are discovered and can be exploited by nefarious entities to compromise an operating system. So, that's when Microsoft or Apple will deploy fixes for those flaws that are discovered. This happens the whole life of an operating system as flaws are continuously exploited by the bad people out there.

A common myth is that Apple products are immune to this type of problem. But that is just a myth. In fact, Apple products are just as susceptible to security issues as Windows. So, updating the OSx of Macs and other Apple products is just as critical and important to do, as well as a good security software.

Okay, back to the Windows 10 issue at hand. From the research I have done, I have discovered that Microsoft will be offering an Extend Security Updates (ESU) program for users who still need or want to use Windows 10. It was first posted that it was for business licenses, but it appears that it is for consumer licenses as well. Of course, this will be a subscription-based program, and unfortunately is a costly one. The first year is $61, 2nd year is $122, and the 3rd year is $244. Yes, it doubles every year. The reasoning, as Microsoft puts it, is that it is only put in place to facilitate a transition to Windows 11, not a long-term solution. So, their goal seems to be to have everyone switch over to Windows 11 as soon as possible.

So, what are your options in dealing with this impending event? One is to upgrade to Windows 11, if your computer is capable of doing so. Some computers are not able to upgrade due to not having the required updated hardware for Windows 11. Another option is to purchase a new computer, which seems a rather excessive option if you have a perfectly good computer that isn't all that old. (Maybe 3-5 years). Obviously, the Microsoft ESU is another option, just not a long term one.

I have found a reasonably priced option from a 3rd party company that is a good alternative to the Microsoft ESU. It is call 0patch (that is a zero), and it is subscription based at $24.95 per computer. 0patch is used worldwide for uses of Windows 7, Microsoft Servers and other unsupported operating systems. Many companies still utilize these operating system, and even consumers do as well so they can continue to use software that will not work on newer operating systems. For more information, you can go to http://www.0patch.com, and remember that it is a zero before the patch. You can also call or email me with questions regarding this software or help with finding your best option.

Please, feel free to call, email or come in and visit my shop if you need help or have questions. I sure would love to meet you, even if just to shoot the breeze for a few.

For more information call Guy Martin at (661) 972-0448, email [email protected] or visit 20424 Brian Way, Unit 4, Tehachapi.