Windows 10 Deadline Nears: What Indian Users Must Do
India warns Windows 10 users to upgrade before October 2025 as Microsoft ends support. No updates or security patches after the deadline.
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The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has released a security advisory urging citizens and organizations to transition from Windows 10 ahead of Microsoft’s scheduled end of support deadline in October 2025.
Microsoft will cease delivering updates, including critical security patches, for the Windows 10 operating system starting October 14, 2025. In anticipation, CERT-In has alerted users to prepare for this shift, citing data vulnerability risks that could emerge once support concludes.
CERT-In’s advisory, dated June 21, 2025, recommends users migrate to Windows 11 or opt into Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. The ESU option, however, is a paid service intended to provide temporary protection for users who require additional time for migration.
With security updates ending, systems running Windows 10 will be left exposed to potential cyber threats. CERT-In has emphasized that devices operating on unsupported software are more susceptible to malware and unauthorized access.
A major concern remains the significant number of users still on Windows 10. According to industry data, over 60 per cent of Windows-powered PCs worldwide continue to run this version, placing a large user base at risk unless timely upgrades are executed.
The advisory highlights that Microsoft’s newer Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, a hardware feature not available on many older machines. This requirement may force users to invest in newer hardware, further complicating the transition process.
Microsoft, meanwhile, continues integrating artificial intelligence tools into Windows 11, marking a clear direction for future software development. The revamped user interface and repositioned start menu are part of broader efforts to streamline usability and performance.
Users who remain on Windows 10 beyond the cutoff will no longer receive updates or technical support, which could result in data breaches or operational disruptions. Both individuals and enterprises are advised to initiate upgrade plans promptly.
