Microsoft has confirmed that support for Office applications on devices running Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, coinciding with the end of official support for the operating system. This move affects all versions of Office, including Microsoft 365, Office 2024, 2021, 2019, and 2016.
Impact on Users
Although Office applications will continue to function after the deadline, Microsoft warns that users may experience performance, security, and reliability issues. The company recommends upgrading to Windows 11 for an optimal experience.
In a statement, Microsoft emphasized that while Office applications on Windows 10 will still be operable, they may encounter issues due to the lack of security updates and optimizations specific to a discontinued operating system.
Requirements for Migrating to Windows 11
One of the main obstacles to the transition is the mandatory requirement for TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) on Windows 11, a requirement that has met resistance from some users due to incompatibility with older devices. Despite this, Microsoft has reiterated that TPM 2.0 is essential for enhancing system security.
Globally, the adoption of Windows 11 has been slower than expected. According to recent data from Statcounter, 62% of Windows users are still on Windows 10, while only 35% have migrated to Windows 11.
Options for Windows 10 Users
For those unable to upgrade to Windows 11 immediately, Microsoft offers alternatives:
- Extended Support: Home users of Windows 10 will be able to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) for a fee of $30 per year, allowing them to continue receiving critical updates until October 2026.
- Prolonged Support for Specific Editions: Versions like Windows 10 LTSB/LTSC (designed for industrial or medical devices) will continue to receive updates beyond 2025.
Pressure to Upgrade
Since the launch of Windows 11 in 2021, Microsoft has actively promoted the migration to the new operating system, marketing 2025 as “the year of PC renewal.” However, the rate of adoption remains slow due to a combination of technical requirements and user resistance.
Microsoft notes that the end of support for Office on Windows 10 is part of its strategy to enhance the security and efficiency of its applications within a more updated ecosystem. Users who do not migrate to Windows 11 will face an increasing risk of vulnerabilities and loss of functionality over time.
Conclusion
With this decision, Microsoft continues on its path of migration to Windows 11, encouraging millions of users to upgrade both their operating system and Office applications. However, with a large percentage of users still on Windows 10, the company may face challenges in achieving its large-scale technological renewal goals.