Microsoft’s Free Extended Windows 10 Support Faces Criticism Amid Uncertain Future for Millions of PCs

Microsoft Releases Final Update Ahead of Windows 10 End-of-Support Deadline

Microsoft has quietly begun pushing out the KB5001716 update to both Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices, marking what appears to be the last major push to encourage users to upgrade before official support for Windows 10 ends in October. As the countdown continues, millions of users are reconsidering their digital strategies.

Embracing Windows 11: Security and Performance in Focus

With Windows 10’s end-of-life approaching, Microsoft and several governments are urging users to switch to Windows 11, touting enhanced security features, improved performance, and innovations in system management. For many, the transition promises a more robust and future-proof computing experience, especially for organizations prioritizing endpoint security and compliance.

Extended Security Updates (ESU): New Options for Windows 10 Users

For those not ready to make the leap to Windows 11, Microsoft earlier announced its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Initially, consumers were asked to pay $30 for continued updates, but in a significant policy shift last month, Microsoft introduced free enrollment options. Now, users can extend Windows 10 security updates until October 2026 by either redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points or leveraging the Windows Backup app to sync settings. The original $30 payment path remains, expanding choice and accessibility for users worldwide.

Mixed Reactions: Critics Say Free ESU Isn't Enough

Despite these new options, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), a consumer advocacy group, has sharply criticized Microsoft’s efforts. PIRG argues that the move fails to address the massive number of Windows 10 devices—estimated at up to 400 million worldwide—that will be left unsupported because they cannot upgrade to Windows 11. In a statement, PIRG called the free ESU program insufficient, likening it to a “band-aid” solution that does little to prevent a looming global e-waste crisis.

Back in June, PIRG warned that the end of Windows 10 support could force many still-functional computers into obsolescence, potentially triggering the largest mass disposal of PCs ever witnessed. The group contends that about 40% of all PCs in current use do not meet Windows 11 minimum requirements, putting them at risk once Windows 10 security patches cease.

Market Data: How Many PCs Will Be Left Behind?

Estimates about the actual number of affected computers vary. While PIRG sticks to the 400 million figure, a report by market research firm Canalys puts the number closer to 240 million. Regardless of the exact figure, the risk is clear: millions of devices may become vulnerable or unusable—raising concerns over both cybersecurity and electronic waste.

Enterprise Migration Patterns Highlight Challenges

Recent data from ControlUp, a digital workspace analytics company, reveals that large organizations are actively transitioning to Windows 11. Their analysis of over a million PCs shows that while many enterprises are upgrading, a significant percentage—about 12% in both Europe and North America—remain on hardware that isn’t compatible with Windows 11. This translates to over 120,000 unsupported systems in ControlUp’s study alone.

Microsoft acknowledges these challenges and has published detailed ESU key activation guides to help enterprises extend security coverage for legacy systems that cannot be upgraded. These guides aim to assist IT administrators in maintaining security compliance for devices running critical workloads.

Product Features and Market Relevance

The Extended Security Updates program offers essential security and usability benefits for individuals and businesses unable to migrate immediately. Free ESU enrollment via Microsoft Rewards or Windows Backup grants access to critical updates through October 2026, helping organizations bridge the gap while they plan their next move. By keeping legacy devices patched, Microsoft mitigates some of the cybersecurity risks inherent in unsupported operating systems, providing time for orderly transitions to newer platforms.

In comparison, Windows 11 brings cutting-edge features like advanced virtualization, better resource management, and robust malware protection, positioning itself as the future of personal and professional computing. However, strict hardware requirements create barriers—making the path forward complex for many users.

Conclusion: Navigating the Transition

While Microsoft’s free extended support for Windows 10 marks a notable shift toward flexibility and user accommodation, criticism from organizations like PIRG underscores a deeper industry challenge. As end-of-support approaches, millions of PCs remain at risk—prompting calls for broader solutions to prevent mass device abandonment and e-waste. For now, users should weigh the benefits of free ESU, stay vigilant about security, and begin planning for life beyond Windows 10.