Windows 10 Support Ending.
An honest look at the end of Windows 10 support without hype, panic, or alarm bells ringing.

A brief word before we get into this topic. The views expressed are my own and do not reflect any institution, company, or organization. This document should not be considered advice on how you should proceed. My goal here is to lay out facts, at least as I see them, to help you think critically and make an informed decision. Remember we go through this every few years: Windows 9x, XP, W7, W10... etc.

The end of support for Windows 10 means that Microsoft will no longer provide updates, security patches, or technical assistance for this operating system. This can leave users vulnerable to security risks and software malfunctions, as any newly discovered vulnerabilities will not be addressed. The Windows 10 you have today will continue to work long after support has ended. The only concern is that new vulnerabilities will not be patched.  

For users facing the end of support, there are a few options available:

• Upgrade to Windows 11: If your computer meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11, the best advice would be to upgrade. Microsoft has blocked Windows 11 on computers older than approximately 4 years. If you are not eligible for the update, consider upgrading to a new computer that supports it.  I generally do not like the idea of generating e-waste and telling people they need to spend money but if you are really concerned this may the best way out.  Yes you can make Windows 11 install on unsupported hardware, but an update in the future can completely break the operating system, honestly you could argue that point with computers that are running Windows 11 on supported hardware.  

• Install a Different OS: Consider switching to another operating system, such as a Linux distribution, which is often free and can provide a good alternative for users. I have been using Linux for the past few years, and it has worked well for me. You will have to learn something new, and that holds many people back. Things are typically more difficult in the Linux world than on Windows, but it is totally doable, especially for casual users.  

• Stay on Windows 10: You will need to accept the fact that you will be at a higher risk of exploitation; however, we can help mitigate that below.  

Here is some good advice for anyone, not just people planning on staying on Windows 10.  This list is not inclusive but is a good starting point.

• Update your software applications and antivirus programs regularly. Just because Windows does not receive updates does not mean you should not update the software running on it.  This is especially true for web browsers, as they interact directly with the internet.  

• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Change your passwords regularly and avoid using the same password across multiple accounts. 

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, enable 2FA for an added layer of security. This often involves receiving a code via SMS or using an authentication app. 

• Be Cautious of Email and Links: Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links in emails from unknown senders. Phishing attacks can steal personal information or install malicious software (malware). Ultimately, if I did not ask for it, I don't know who it came from, or I don't know what it is, I do not open it.   

• Backup Data Regularly: Use an external hard drive or cloud storage to back up important files. Regular backups can protect your data from loss due to hardware failure or malware attacks. Keep your backups offline so that an infection will not infect the backups as well.  Ideally, you should have a copy off-site if the property is destroyed.  

• Limit Personal Information Sharing: Be mindful of the personal information you share online, especially on social media. Adjust privacy settings to control who can see your information. 

• Use Secure and Private Networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities. If necessary, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection. 

• Educate Yourself About Cyber Threats: Stay informed about common cyber threats, such as ransomware and malware, to recognize suspicious activity. 

• Install Security Software: Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to scan and protect your computer from threats.  Use browser extensions that improve security and filter malware and advertising. Switch your DNS to a free provider that provides some malware filtering.  

• Remember: Your actions online make the most difference regardless of your operating system support status.  

Here is a little perspective. The U.S. military still uses Windows XP in some mission-critical systems where upgrading would be too risky or costly.  Some systems, particularly those integrated with weapons, navigation, or industrial control systems, cannot be easily upgraded because the software they rely on may not function properly on newer operating systems without extensive rework. Officially, XP support ended on April 8, 2014.   Many banks continue to operate ATMs running Windows XP, due to the high cost and complexity of upgrading legacy systems. Industry estimates suggest that a significant portion of ATMs worldwide, including around 75% in the U.S., still rely on Windows XP or Windows XP Embedded. Banks are slowly transitioning ATMs to Windows 7, which ended support in 2020. Clearly, these systems are generally not intended for general users accessing the internet; however, I want to make the point that a significant portion of our critical infrastructure runs on outdated versions of Windows.