Introduction
Since its launch in 2015, Windows 10 has become one of Microsoft’s most successful operating systems, installed on hundreds of millions of PCs worldwide. But time is running out. On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10, meaning no more free security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance. Microsoft Support+2Windows Central+2
As the deadline approaches, users are left with choices: upgrade to Windows 11 (if their hardware supports it), enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, or continue using Windows 10 at growing risk. This article explores the current trends, what the data says, what options users have, and what might go wrong if ignored.
Is Windows 10 Trending / What Do the Statistics Say?
Yes — Windows 10 is very much in trends, but mostly because its end of support is imminent, and people are reacting. Some highlights:
As of August 2025, Windows 11 has overtaken Windows 10 in worldwide desktop OS market share. Windows 11 holds about 49-52%, while Windows 10 is around 44-46%. tech.slashdot.org+3StatCounter Global Stats+3The Verge+3
Many users are delaying upgrading due to hardware requirements for Windows 11, or simply because their current Windows 10 setup works well. This has led to a slow shift, with Windows 10 still being used by a large base.
There’s a surge of content and news about “Windows 10 end of support,” which is trending in tech news outlets. People search: how to upgrade, what risks, what ESU program is, etc. So yes, Windows 10 is trending heavily because of its impending “end of life.”
What Microsoft Is Saying & Key Dates
Support Ends: October 14, 2025 — after this, Microsoft ceases providing security updates, patches, or technical assistance. Microsoft Support+1
Windows 10 version versions (like 22H2 etc.) will stop receiving servicing.
Extended Security Updates (ESU): For users who can’t upgrade immediately, Microsoft has ESU program so they can continue receiving important security patches until October 14, 2026. Not full feature updates, just security/critical patches.
Options for Users
Here’s what people using Windows 10 should consider:
Upgrade to Windows 11
Check if your PC meets hardware requirements (TPM, CPU generation, secure boot, etc.)
If eligible, upgrade sooner rather than later to avoid being exposed to threats or losing compatibility.
Enroll in ESU program
If you cannot upgrade, ESU offers a 1-year option past end-of-support to get security updates. Windows Central
There are free & paid methods depending on your setup (e.g. Microsoft Rewards, using Microsoft account, etc.)
Buy a new PC
For many, especially with older hardware, upgrading the machine might be simpler or more secure than forcing an upgrade.
Alternative OS or workarounds
For some tech-savvy users, switching to Linux, or using earlier versions safely, though that comes with trade-offs in compatibility and support.
Risks If You Don’t Act
Failing to move off Windows 10 or obtain some form of continued security support has serious consequences:
Security vulnerabilities: Without patches, PCs become prone to malware, ransomware, exploits, and zero-day threats.
Software & driver compatibility: New applications, hardware drivers may stop supporting Windows 10 or fail to run properly.
Compliance issues: For businesses, using unsupported OS could violate internal or external security policies or laws.
Reduced support for Microsoft Office and other Microsoft services: Some features may stop working or degrade.
Positive Implications
Though it’s challenging, there are positive outcomes if managed well:
Users upgrading to Windows 11 get new features — better security architecture, newer UI, AI/coprocessor features, better support.
Hardware refreshes can lead to more efficient PCs, improved battery life, better performance.
The ESU program gives breathing space for people to plan their upgrades — reducing panic and forced purchases.
Negative Implications
Many users have old hardware that doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements — for them, upgrade could mean buying new PC, which is costly.
Technical glitches: Upgrades are sometimes messy; software/driver incompatibilities, adjustments needed.
For businesses or schools with many PCs, cost + logistics of upgrading or buying new machines is huge.
Some fear Microsoft’s push is too aggressive, and people will be coerced rather than given a comfortable transition.
Public Opinion & Reactions
On tech forums, many users are upset: “I liked Windows 10, it works fine, why force me to upgrade?” is a common sentiment.
Others argue that Windows 11 offers real benefits, and it’s better to move now before threats grow.
Some see Microsoft’s “end-of-support banners/pop-ups” as annoying or pushy. Windows Latest
There’s also discussion about affordability and access — not everyone can afford a new PC or has hardware that supports Windows 11.
Trend Check: Is It a Trending Topic?
Yes — Windows 10 is very much trending at the moment because:
The support deadline is close (just weeks away).
News outlets, tech sites, YouTube, forums are filled with guides: “How to upgrade,” “What to do after Windows 10 EOL,” “Is Windows 10 safe after support ends?”
StatCounter and other market analysts showing Windows 11 overtaking market share. The Verge+1
Microsoft itself pushing with notifications, banners, and reminders. Windows Latest+1
So yes, writing an article now about Windows 10 is timely, useful, and likely to get good traction.
Conclusion
The clock is ticking. With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, now is the time for users to make decisions: upgrade, enroll in ESU, or prepare for risks. Windows 10 is trending not because of new features, but because of its ending — and the ripple effects it will cause for millions of PCs.
Whether you love Windows 10 or are ready to move on, there’s no neutral ground in this transition. It’s a choice between staying safe or staying familiar — but possibly vulnerable.