Devices running the operating system will become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats.
Microsoft is urging users to transition to Windows 11, which is offered as a free upgrade to compatible machines. However, many older devices do not meet the minimum hardware requirements for the newer operating system.
Nathan Proctor, senior director at US consumer group PIRG, described the situation as a "disaster for both consumers and the environment" to the BBC. He warned that millions of otherwise functional devices could be scrapped solely because they cannot support the latest software.
The advocacy group Right to Repair estimates that up to 400 million computers may become obsolete due to incompatibility with Windows 11. The organisation claims this could generate as much as 700 million kilograms of electronic waste.
"People are tired of living in a world filled with short-lived devices we can't fix, or lose software support or are otherwise forced into the waste stream," said Proctor.
To mitigate immediate risks, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 users. This programme provides limited security patches without full system support. It is available for one additional year, ending on 13 October 2026.
Users in the European Economic Area can access ESU free of charge by registering eligible devices. The offer applies to versions 22H2 of Windows 10 Home, Professional, Pro Education and Workstations. Registration requires a Microsoft account and the latest system updates.
Outside the EEA, users must either pay a $30 fee or use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points to enrol. Each licence supports up to ten devices.
Commercial organisations must pay $61 per device to participate in the ESU programme.
The end of support also affects the wider tech ecosystem. As developers adapt to newer systems, software running on Windows 10 may lose functionality or cease receiving updates altogether.
Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's Chief Marketing Officer for Consumer Services, acknowledged the risks. He noted in a blog post that businesses using unsupported software may struggle with regulatory compliance and face higher security exposure.
Since its launch in 2015, Windows 10 has received frequent updates and patches, including feature additions and security improvements. Microsoft's move away from the platform reflects a broader shift in its support strategy, which increasingly favours devices connected to Microsoft accounts and cloud services.
Critics say this model disadvantages users who rely on older hardware or prefer not to link their devices to online accounts.
For now, users must choose between upgrading to Windows 11, enrolling in ESU, or continuing without support -- each option carrying its own cost, risk or environmental trade-off.
HT