Millions of Windows 10 users are facing an uncertain future as Microsoft prepares to end free security updates on October 14, 2025. Consumer Reports has addressed a letter to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, urging the company to reverse its decision and continue providing free support for Windows 10 machines. The organisation argues that ending support will risk the security of countless users with devices unable to upgrade to Windows 11, drawing criticism over both the timing and the cost of extended coverage options now being offered by Microsoft.
According to Consumer Reports, the end of support could leave a significant proportion of global PC users exposed to cyber threats. The organisation’s appeal follows data indicating that roughly 46.2 per cent of people worldwide were still using Windows 10 as of August 2025. Many of these devices cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, largely due to missing hardware requirements. This widespread incompatibility is at the centre of Consumer Reports’ concerns, as it questions how Microsoft caters to its existing customer base.
Microsoft’s hypocritical approach
Consumer Reports has described Microsoft’s approach as “hypocritical” in urging customers to upgrade for cybersecurity, yet leaving Windows 10 devices vulnerable. The letter also draws attention to the $30 fee Microsoft is charging for “a mere one-year extension to preserve their machine’s security.” The organisation has further criticised the company’s free support options, contending that these require users to utilise Microsoft products, allowing the company to “eke out a bit of market share over competitors.”
A key point in the letter highlights the potential for millions to be adversely affected. Consumer Reports warns that ending free support will “strand millions of consumers” who have computers incompatible with Windows 11. This sentiment is echoed by public advocacy groups, who argue that the move could have broad environmental and social implications.
In support of Consumer Reports, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) has petitioned for an extended support deadline. PIRG estimates that “as many as 400 million perfectly good computers that can’t upgrade to Windows 11 will be thrown out.” This raises concerns about unnecessary electronic waste and the practical impact on users reliant on older hardware that remains functional.
Hurdles in switching to Windows 11
At the centre of the debate is the balance between cybersecurity and accessibility. While Microsoft maintains that moving to Windows 11 is the safest option, the hardware barriers for upgrading remain substantial for many. Consumer Reports contends that Microsoft’s current strategy fails to adequately address the needs of those without the means or ability to replace their devices.
Consumer Reports’ letter draws particular attention to the cost of maintaining security, with the $30 annual support fee seen as a barrier for some. The organisation is asking Microsoft to provide security support for Windows 10 computers at no additional cost until a larger proportion of users have upgraded.
As the October 14, 2025, deadline approaches, Microsoft has yet to respond publicly to the requests laid out by Consumer Reports and PIRG. The ongoing debate underscores the challenges faced by both industry and consumers as software lifecycles shorten and hardware upgrade requirements become more stringent.
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