4 Minutes
Overview: What’s happening with Windows 10 end-of-support
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 in a few months, including early builds. That deadline has pushed millions of users to consider or undertake an upgrade to Windows 11. While Microsoft has published a support article and a step-by-step guide for upgrading, hardware and compatibility hurdles are creating friction for a large portion of the installed base.
Legal challenge: A user takes Microsoft to court
Lawsuit claims and alleged risks
An individual plaintiff, Lawrence Klein, has filed a lawsuit alleging that Microsoft’s move to end Windows 10 support could "jeopardize" user and customer data. The complaint argues that by accelerating the transition to Windows 11 and emphasizing newer hardware (including Copilot+ PCs), Microsoft is effectively steering the market toward generative AI–ready devices at the expense of those who remain on older systems.
The suit asserts this tactic may increase exposure to cyberattacks for businesses and consumers still operating on unsupported Windows 10 machines — a concern raised particularly for organizations that store sensitive consumer data. Klein is seeking an extension of Windows 10 security updates until the number of active Windows 10 devices falls below a reasonable threshold. The case was filed under ID 25CU041477C (document available via Courthouse News).
What the lawsuit requests
The plaintiff wants Microsoft to prolong Windows 10 support rather than force migration by deadline, arguing that a gradual phase-out or extended paid support options would reduce security risks and give organizations more time to upgrade hardware and manage data protection strategies.
Upgrade barriers: System requirements, hardware, and software compatibility
Windows 11 system requirements and the hardware impact
One of the biggest obstacles is Windows 11’s system requirements, which often necessitate new CPUs, TPM 2.0 modules, and other modern platform features. Microsoft formally recommends upgrading to certified hardware—ideally a Copilot+ PC for best AI integration—creating a divide between supported systems and ineligible legacy devices.
Feature degradation and software compatibility
Some apps, including major games and productivity tools, are beginning to enforce Windows 11 compatibility, and certain features are reportedly degrading or disappearing on Windows 10. This fragmentation can affect gamers, developers, and enterprise users who rely on consistent platform behavior.
Product features, comparisons, and advantages
Windows 11 introduces a redesigned UI, improved window management, tighter integration with Microsoft’s generative AI and Copilot features, and hardware-accelerated security. For users with supported devices, the advantages include better performance, updated security features, and future-ready AI capabilities. However, for many Windows 10 users, the cost of new hardware and migration logistics is the principal barrier.
Use cases and market relevance
Enterprises that handle sensitive customer data face the most risk from an unsupported OS lifecycle. Small businesses, public sector organizations, and long-tail consumers on older PCs will need clear upgrade paths or paid extended support. The roughly 400 million Windows 10 devices still in use on ineligible hardware make this a significant market and security challenge.
What users and IT teams can do now
Microsoft’s upgrade guide and support article remain the first stop for troubleshooting install blockers. Community-led projects like the unofficial "End of Windows 10 toolkit" aim to help users manage the transition or maintain functionality on older hardware. Organizations should evaluate paid extended support, endpoint protection enhancements, and staged migration plans to reduce exposure while balancing cost and operational impact.
As the deadline approaches, users and IT leaders must weigh the benefits of Windows 11—security, performance, and AI features—against budget, compatibility, and data-protection concerns. The ongoing lawsuit may influence Microsoft’s approach to the end-of-support timeline, but for now the company’s requirements and ecosystem decisions are shaping the upgrade landscape.
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