New Microsoft Update Warning—400 Million Windows PC Owners Must Pay

Microsoft has suddenly issued a new warning for Windows users who cannot or do not want to switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The free ride is over; The warning is a clear reminder that these users must pay to protect their computers.

“Starting October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates for Windows 10,” the latest nagging thread warns. There appear to be a number of different advertisements that follow this universal security warning; some for Co-Pilot computers, some forcing an upgrade. “We are reaching out to thank you for your commitment to Windows and to help you prepare for what comes next,” the alert screen reassures.

There remain approximately 850 million Windows 10 users, and more than half of them are reportedly using computers that do not meet the technical requirements for upgrading to Windows 11. arstechnica “These messages may be mostly directed at people using older computers that are unable to officially install the Windows 11 update.”

Whether there is a situation not being able to, habit or just I didn’tWindows 10 delays can expect much more than that over the next eleven months. These latest warnings appear to be aimed at hitting users in the middle of other activities; perhaps it’s thought to be easier and the upgrade makes for a quieter life – if you can do it, that is.

ForbesSamsung Galaxy Deadline—7 Days to Update or Stop Using Your PhoneWith Zak Doffman

The obvious problem here is that among the 400 million soon-to-be-retired computers that won’t be able to upgrade to TPM-compatible Windows 11, there will be many users who can’t afford, and perhaps probably won’t, buy a new machine. $30 Microsoft scholarship to continue security support for one year extension only.

Let’s remember, There are also around 50 million Windows users who are not using Windows 11 and are already well outside any support arrangements. As each Patch Tuesday comes and goes, the ice users walk on becomes thinner.

The good news is that the extension of support will offset some of the demand for new PCs in 2025, likely making this a good year for bargain hunting, or at least bargain hunting. The PC industry appears to have had a softer-than-expected year at the end of 2024; A reduced purchasing pool may also be followed by excess stock.

And then there’s the landfill problem. Whether it’s October 2025 or October 2026, there’s going to be a lot of tinkering around with no realistic secondary market to chase, given the lack of Windows update or upgrade paths. advocacy group PIRG describes it as “the largest increase in the number of discarded computers in history, with dire consequences for both consumers and the environment.”

ForbesNew Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge Warning—Do Not Shop These WebsitesWith Zak Doffman

And it looks like there may still be more changes to this story for Windows 10’s loyal fan base as October 2025 approaches. The latest numbers on Windows 11 conversions (at least it’s accelerating) and $30 support purchases will determine the extent of the problem and then the severity of any solution.

Meanwhile, whether it’s an upgrade or a support extension, make sure you choose the side that will keep your computer worry-free. The risks are not worth saving.