Windows 10 updates won’t be free after 2025 — here’s why

End of an era.
By Chance Townsend  on 
Windows 10
Credit: Microsoft

Windows 10 is unfortunately coming to the end of its life cycle. In 2025, Microsoft's OS will no longer receive free updates and support as the company transitions its efforts to Windows 11 and potentially Windows 12.

Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?

According to a blog post from Microsoft on Tuesday, starting Oct. 14, 2025, the company will start charging for Windows 10 security updates. The reasoning is quite simple; Windows 10 is almost a decade old at this point and Microsoft is not willing to give full support to a potential three operating systems. As it phases out Windows 10, the company hopes to entice users to transition to Windows 11, which is free for eligible PCs at the moment.

If you want to upgrade to Windows 11 right now, it's easy and free. Launched in 2021, it's not the most revolutionary Windows OS to exist, but it's suitable for those looking for a change — but not too much change. You can also keep Windows 10 and not pay for the updates, but that leaves you vulnerable to bad actors looking to exploit soon-to-be abandonware.

If you want to wait, recent rumors suggest Windows 12 will see a 2024 release, but that information is a bit sketchy. If true, Windows 12 won't be a free update like Windows 11, but what that OS will offer in terms of AI advancement is exciting. Or you can switch to Linux if that's your thing.

Either way, 2025 is a long time away so there's no need to make a decision now. Microsoft did not make it clear how much it'll charge for future updates.

Topics Microsoft

Headshot of a Black man
Chance Townsend
Assistant Editor, General Assignments

Currently residing in Austin, Texas, Chance Townsend is an Assistant Editor at Mashable. He has a Master's in Journalism from the University of North Texas with the bulk of his research primarily focused on online communities, dating apps, and professional wrestling.

In his free time, he's an avid cook, loves to sleep, and "enjoys" watching the Lions and Pistons break his heart on a weekly basis. If you have any stories or recipes that might be of interest you can reach him by email at [email protected].


Recommended For You
Windows 12 release date window leaked — but we're skeptical

A new Windows 11 update awaits you — 3 new features coming to your PC


The best gift for Apple lovers? This ‘Windows Ugly Sweater.’

Microsoft AI can take meetings for you now

More in Tech

Governments can spy via smartphone push notifications, Apple and Google confirm


Best Buy is celebrating the holidays with 20 days of 24-hour deals

AI has been quietly enhancing your work life for years

Trending on Mashable

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for December 8

NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for December 7

Wordle today: Here's the answer and hints for December 8

The 10 best books of the year, according to BookTok
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!