- Microsoft will end free support for Windows 10 next October
- Users will be able to choose whether to upgrade to the new system or leave their computer unprotected
- Another option is to pay additional support
- The Redmonds revealed this week how much it will cost
Next year in October, free support for Windows 10 will end. This situation will affect tens of millions of users, because “tens” is still the most used desktop system in the world. Microsoft is aware of the popularity of Windows 10, which is why for the first time in history it will offer consumers a support extension. But it won’t be free.
Microsoft has revealed how much additional Windows 10 support will cost
It is not the first time that Microsoft offers additional paid support for its operating system, but until now only companies have had this privilege. After all, for companies, the transition to a newer version of the system is more complicated, either because of the incompatibility of specialized applications or because of the need to replace a large number of devices at once. In the past, extended support covered the following systems:
- Windows XP – basic system support ended on April 8, 2014, extended support lasted until January 14, 2020
- Windows 7 – Basic support ended on April 14, 2020, extended support lasted until January 10, 2023
- Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 – Basic support ended on January 14, 2020, extended support lasted until January 10, 2023
- Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 – Basic support ended on October 10, 2023, extended support will last until October 10, 2026
In the case of enterprises, Microsoft charges considerable amounts for extended support, which doubles with each passing year – for example, Windows 10 will cost $61 for the first year, $122 for the second year, and $244 for the third year. Until now, the people of Redmond kept a secret about how much the extended support for regular users will cost, but this week they finally broke the wall of silence.
Don’t overlook
Last 365 days! Free support for Windows 10 will end in a year
Users who want to continue running Windows 10 and receive regular security updates will have to pay $30 after October next year (about 850 crowns with VAT). For now, it looks like Microsoft will offer regular consumers only one year extended support, then disables this option.
But it is quite possible that the people of Redmond will still “soften up” – after all, according to the September statistics of the StatCounter agency, Windows 10 accounts for 62.75 percent of all versions of Windows, and it is decreasing very slowly. There are a large number of sufficiently powerful Windows 10 computers in circulation that cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 due to the increased hardware requirements. Their users will want to keep them for a few more years, so it will be interesting to see if Microsoft offers them even more years of additional support or exposes them to the potential danger of an unprotected system.
Author of the article
Jakub Karásek
The Perfect Storm: Microsoft’s Windows 10 Support Ends – And Now What?
By Jakub Karásek
Hold onto your keyboards, folks! The end is nigh!
Microsoft has just let the cat out of the bag: free support for Windows 10 is going the way of the dodo next October! It’s as if the tech giants are saying, “Enjoy your last free ride while you can, because we’re shifting gears to a toll road!” And let’s be honest, with 62.75% of users still clinging to this vintage operating system, they’d better have a good game plan.
For those of you who haven’t experienced Microsoft’s infamous ‘upgrade guilt’ yet, consider this a lesson in technology history. Every time they announce an end-of-support scenario, it’s like watching a horror movie—except it’s your bank account that gets slashed, not the heroine.
The Upgrade Dilemma: Do You Own Your Computer or Not?
So, what’s the deal? You’ve got options, but they all come with a price tag. It’s a classic case of “pay up or shut up.” You can either upgrade and enjoy Windows 11 (if your hardware allows it), or choose to leave your beloved machine in the dust, all while Microsoft peers down with a smirk like a school bully saying, “You’re gonna regret this!”
But fear not, if you are feeling particularly masochistic, there’s also the charming offer of additional paid support. It’s like getting a VIP ticket to an overpriced concert—you know you’re gonna regret it, but that glittering allure is hard to resist.
The Cost of Nostalgia: Money Talks!
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks. You’re looking at $30 for one year of extended support—approximately 850 crowns with VAT. Good luck finding an investment that will return that much joy for a mere 30 bucks! Sure, it seems reasonable until you consider that Microsoft’s previous support policies could easily double these costs each year. Next thing you know, your computer support bill looks like a Netflix subscription for a series you didn’t even like!
While enterprises can shake off these expenses like dandruff off a woolen sweater, for regular users, it’s akin to being asked to pay for a subscription after enjoying free public Wi-Fi at a cafe. Oh Microsoft, can you feel the love?
Will They or Won’t They? The Drama Continues!
Now, here’s where it gets juicy. Will Microsoft relent and offer more years of support? After all, tens of millions of computer enthusiasts and everyday users risk being left in the dust! If they were kind-hearted (and also financially savvy), they’d realize the looming threat of security vulnerabilities is a great motivation to offer more options. But, let’s face it—Microsoft’s kindness usually comes with a catch (and a hefty price tag).
So, what’s next for those clinging to their Windows 10 like it’s the last life raft on the Titanic? Will you sail into the abyss of unprotected systems or jump ship and embrace a shiny new version? Now that’s the million-dollar question!
- Microsoft will terminate free support for Windows 10 next October
- Users will have the option to upgrade to the new system or leave their computer vulnerable
- Another option available is to purchase additional support
- The Redmond-based company disclosed the costs this week
Starting in October of next year, the era of free support for Windows 10 will come to an end, an announcement poised to impact tens of millions of users globally. Notably, Windows 10 remains the dominant desktop operating system, illustrating its widespread adoption among consumers and businesses alike. Acknowledging this significant user base, Microsoft is introducing a support extension option for the first time in history, albeit at a price.
Microsoft has disclosed pricing for additional Windows 10 support
While it is not unprecedented for Microsoft to provide paid support options, this will mark the first time regular consumers can access extended support, previously reserved for business customers. For organizations, transitioning to a newer version often presents challenges due to legacy software incompatibilities or the logistics of replacing numerous machines simultaneously. Historical instances of extended support have included:
- Windows XP – Basic system support ended on April 8, 2014; extended support lasted until January 14, 2020
- Windows 7 – Basic support concluded on April 14, 2020; extended support continued until January 10, 2023
- Windows Server 2008 and 2008 R2 – Basic support ended on January 14, 2020; extended support ran until January 10, 2023
- Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 – Basic support ended on October 10, 2023; extended support will last until October 10, 2026
For enterprises, Microsoft imposes significant fees for extended support, which tend to double each year. For instance, the cost for Windows 10 will begin at $61 in the first year, followed by $122 in the second year, and an elevated $244 in the third year. This week, Microsoft ended its silence regarding the pricing for extended support aimed at regular users, revealing final figures.
In terms of pricing, consumers who wish to continue using Windows 10 and receive essential security updates will need to pay $30 starting in October of next year (approximately 850 crowns with VAT). Currently, it appears Microsoft will permit regular users only a single year of extended support before discontinuing this option entirely. However, as the adoption rates suggest, such measures may prompt Microsoft to reconsider its approach.
According to September statistics from StatCounter, Windows 10 constitutes 62.75 percent of all Windows operating systems, indicating a gradual decline. Many users possess capable Windows 10 devices that are not compatible with the more stringent hardware requirements of Windows 11. These users are likely to seek continued use of their machines for a few more years, making it essential to monitor whether Microsoft may adjust its extended support offerings or leave these users vulnerable to security threats.
Author of the article
Jakub Karásek
Windows Server 2012 R2 Extended support
; extended support lasted until January 10, 2023
For enterprises, upgrading may involve significant costs and challenges, often compounded by the necessity of ensuring compatibility with existing applications. Therefore, it’s not surprising that many businesses have historically clung to older operating systems for longer than intended. Recognizing this pattern, Microsoft has decided to allow regular consumers to purchase extended support for Windows 10—an unprecedented move designed to accommodate users’ inertia and hardware limitations. Going forward, individuals will face a fee of $30 for one year of extended security updates, translating to roughly 850 crowns with VAT. While initially modest, this pricing structure may become untenable as users face multiple years of support fees, echoing the pricing strategies seen in Microsoft’s enterprise support. If history is any indicator, these costs could increase significantly in later years, leading to what might feel like being nickeled-and-dimed. As Windows 10’s user base, currently comprising over 62.75% of Windows systems, slowly diminishes, Microsoft could still find itself compelled to reconsider its extended support offerings due to user demand and potential security concerns. Many devices currently in use may not meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, further complicating the transition for those users looking to upgrade. The implications of Microsoft’s decision extend beyond just the economics; they may influence users’ overall attitudes towards updates and upgrades. As consumer awareness grows about security risks and the importance of maintaining a supported operating system, users may feel more compelled to either upgrade or invest in extended support. This could influence Microsoft’s future policies as they try to balance support for legacy systems with encouraging newer, more secure options. Ultimately, the choice will be in the hands of the user: adapt and upgrade, pay for peace of mind, or risk exposing their system to vulnerabilities. As we approach the end of free support in October 2024, it will be fascinating to see how many users make the leap and how this impacts Microsoft’s relationship with its vast customer base. The clock is ticking for Windows 10 users—a pivotal moment filled with choices that can shape their computing future. Buckle up, because the support journey is about to take some unexpected turns!Pricing and Future Implications
The Road Ahead: Navigating Changes
