The time has come! Microsoft is now sending out emails to Windows 10 users reminding them that end of support for the still-very-popular operating system is imminent. Users have begun receiving the first of these emails in their inboxes, reports Windows Latest.
The emails begin with a heading that boldly proclaims “End of support for Windows 10 is approaching.” Below that, there’s a button to “check upgrade eligibility” (presumably for bumping your PC up to Windows 11) as well as a link to “Explore new computers” (for users who are still on older PCs that aren’t compatible with Windows 11). And below that, ther’s an FAQ on what Windows 10 end of support means.
While Microsoft explains that Windows 10 will no longer be supported after October 14, 2025, the FAQ fails to mention that Microsoft is offering paid extended support for at least another year.
The FAQ also gives some advice on what to do with a retired Windows 10 PC, emphasizing that Windows 10 PCs won’t simply stop working after end of support hits but will grow increasingly more susceptible to malware and hacker attacks because the company won’t be providing security updates that address newly discovered security flaws.
The FAQ ends with the inevitable claim that Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever and that you should please upgrade to it.
How to continue using Windows 10
As mentioned above, Microsoft’s email fails to bring up the company’s offer of one year of extended support for a $30 fee. Alternatively, you can use 0Patch to keep getting updates after support ends. If neither suits your fancy, you can also look into some other ways to save your PC once Windows 10 hits end of life.
What you shouldn’t do is keep using Windows 10 without further security updates as that’ll leave you exposed and vulnerable to all kinds of cybersecurity shenanigans. If you decide to do this anyway, make sure you’re protected by reputable antivirus software and VPN services.
And if you continue using your Windows 10 computer, Microsoft also advises that you back up your files to OneDrive.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.