The countdown to the end of support for Windows 10, scheduled for October 14, 2025, has set off alarms among consumer organizations, cybersecurity experts, and users worldwide. Microsoft’s decision to stop offering free security updates for this operating system threatens to leave hundreds of millions of computers vulnerable to cyberattacks, still in operation. The controversy is significant: we’re talking about one of the most widely used systems in modern computing history, still installed on nearly half of active PCs globally.
An operating system resisting death
Windows 10 was launched in 2015 with the promise of being “the last version of Windows,” and it received a steady stream of updates for years. However, the advent of Windows 11 in 2021 changed the narrative: Microsoft began pressuring users to upgrade to the new system. The problem is that, unlike previous transitions, this time the technical requirements are more demanding: chips with support for TPM 2.0, relatively recent processors, and other conditions that exclude a large portion of existing hardware.
According to Consumer Reports, in August 2025, 46.2% of computers worldwide were still using Windows 10. Even more concerning: between 200 and 400 million devices do not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11 installation. That is, millions of perfectly functional machines would be condemned to technological obsolescence.
A direct letter to Microsoft’s CEO
Consumer Reports, a nonprofit independent organization founded in 1936 in the United States, decided to take a stronger stance. In a letter addressed directly to Microsoft’s CEO, the organization accuses the company of being “hypocritical”: on one hand, emphasizing the importance of digital security to justify upgrading to Windows 11, but on the other hand, exposing those who cannot or do not want to migrate to attacks.
The letter is blunt: Microsoft is betraying millions of customers by forcing them to incur new costs or discard still-operating devices. An action that, in the organization’s words, makes no sense and harms both users and the environment.
The business of paid support
Outrage has grown with the announcement that Microsoft will offer an extended support plan for Windows 10… but for a fee. Specifically, $30 per year per device to continue receiving security patches. For Consumer Reports, this model is not a real solution, but an economic patch that benefits Microsoft more than consumers.
Furthermore, they point out that the free support still available is tied to the use of other Microsoft products, strengthening its dominant position at the expense of competitors. The criticism directly ties into ongoing debates about the power of big tech companies and their market practices.
PIRG also raises its voice
This is not the only organization speaking out. PIRG (Public Interest Research Group), a prominent public interest group in the United States, has also warned of the issue. According to their estimates, up to 400 million computers could become electronic waste early if Microsoft does not change course.
The paradox is clear: a company that claims to be committed to sustainability and waste reduction could trigger an unprecedented wave of electronic waste in the tech sector. A direct blow to circular economy goals and ecological transition efforts that governments and companies claim to support.
A divided and frustrated user community
As support ends in just a few weeks, frustration isn’t limited to organizations. Users worldwide have expressed their discontent on forums, social media, and specialized media. Many criticize that Windows 11 offers no substantial improvements over its predecessor and, instead, introduces a long list of errors, compatibility issues, and unnecessary requirements.
Statistics reinforce this perception: far from growing, Windows 11 has lost market share to Windows 10 in recent months. Thousands of users who upgraded have decided to revert to the previous system—an uncommon phenomenon in the industry and a sign of widespread dissatisfaction with the new version.
A real cybersecurity risk
The loss of security updates on such a widespread operating system poses huge risks. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in unsupported software, and the large number of affected computers makes Windows 10 an attractive target.
Cybersecurity firms warn that massive attacks through ransomware, phishing, or malware could surge starting in October. Public agencies, small businesses, and home users who do not upgrade will be on the front lines of risk.
Microsoft’s dilemma
Microsoft faces a dilemma involving reputation and business interests. On one side, it aims to accelerate the transition to Windows 11, consolidating its ecosystem and ensuring steady revenue. On the other, it risks being seen as a company that prioritizes profits over customer security and environmental sustainability.
The question is clear: will it be remembered for listening to users and protecting their security, or for pushing an unwanted, unnecessary, or unaffordable upgrade?
Impact on sustainability and the digital economy
Beyond cybersecurity, the end of Windows 10 raises another significant issue: environmental and economic impacts. The forced obsolescence of millions of devices could spike electronic waste generation, a challenge already of concern to international bodies.
Meanwhile, the costs associated with replacing equipment or paying for additional support will hit the most vulnerable groups hardest: students, low-income families, and small businesses with limited budgets for constant technological upgrades.
Conclusion
The countdown for Windows 10 is not just a technical matter but a debate about the relationship between a major multinational and its customers. The pressure from groups like Consumer Reports and PIRG has placed Microsoft at the center of controversy, forcing it to choose a path with deep social, economic, and environmental implications. October 14 will be a turning point: the day it will be clear whether the company prioritizes its reputation and sustainability commitments or consolidates its image as a giant pushing users to pay up.
FAQs
What happens to my computer after October 14, 2025, if I keep using Windows 10?
The operating system will continue functioning, but it will no longer receive free security updates. This significantly increases the risk of cyberattacks.
Can I upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free?
Only if your computer meets the technical requirements for Windows 11 (such as TPM 2.0 and compatible processors). Otherwise, the upgrade is not officially available.
What options do I have if my PC isn’t compatible with Windows 11?
Options include paying for Microsoft’s extended support, installing a Linux distribution as your OS, or continuing with Windows 10, accepting the security risks.
Why do organizations like Consumer Reports and PIRG advocate for continued support of Windows 10?
Because they believe that discontinuing support will leave hundreds of millions of users exposed and will lead to massive electronic waste, contradicting sustainability commitments.
via: elchapuzasinformatico and Consumer Reports