Microsoft officially shuts down operating system after ten years as users mourn 'end of an era'
This could affect 21 million devices in the UK
Microsoft pulls the plug on its operating system after ten years.
It's officially the end of an era for one of the world's most widely used operating systems.
Last year, the tech giant pushed for millions of users to upgrade their laptops and computers to Windows 11.
As of 14 October 2025, Microsoft announced it would no longer provide free software updates, technical support or security fixes for Windows 10. And yesterday (14 October) marked the official end of Windows' 10-year run.
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This means the roughly 21 million devices still running Windows 10 in the UK will no longer receive crucial security updates.
Devoted fans have turned to social media to mourn the loss of the popular software. In a viral TikTok post, one user filmed the final seconds as Windows 10 support officially ended, captioning: "RIP Windows 10."
Windows 10 launched in 2015 as the replacement for Windows 8.1 and has been receiving regular updates with bug fixes and security patches ever since.
The Bill Gates-founded company is now urging all remaining Windows 10 users to upgrade their devices to the newer Windows 11 system.
Over on Reddit, users have been expressing their shock.
"can't believe it. microsoft showed up and shot windows 10 right in front of me. unbelievable," one user wrote.
On X, people have been sharing photos and memes of Windows 10's demise.
"Windows 10's legendary run ends today after a decade. RIP," posted an X user.
Others on social media wrote to say they would boycott the new update, sharing: "I speak for everyone when I say this, WE WILL NOT BE SWITCHING TO WINDOWS 11."
From this point on, Windows 10 will stop receiving regular security and software updates from Microsoft.
This is significant because these updates typically patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals have discovered and are actively exploiting. Without them, devices become sitting ducks for hackers.
Anyone continuing to use outdated software risks being targeted with malware or viruses designed to exploit these known security holes. But that hasn't stopped many users who are resistant to making the update.
One commenter wrote on X: 'RIP Windows 10. You were the last OS that didn't spy on us 24/7. Now we're all getting Windows 11'd to death.'
If your computer meets the requirements, Windows 11 is free to download.
Here's how to check if you can upgrade:
In Windows 10, open 'Settings', then go to 'Update & Security' and click 'Windows Update.' Select the 'Check for updates' button. If Windows 11 is available for your device, you can simply click 'Download and install' to update to the latest software.