Windows is launching a new security update next month that will see support and servicing for Windows 10 21H2 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro Workstation editions come to an end, This will come almost two years after Windows 11 was officially launched.
While Windows has been encouraging people to switch to Windows 11 since its release, many stubborn users prefer to stick with their version of Windows 10.
However, soon you won’t have a choice about whether to update to at least the latest version of Windows 10. With no support available, users will be automatically updated to Windows 10 22H2 from June 13 onwards (although no specific date of when to expect the switch has been given).
Microsoft says the automatic update is for “consumer devices and non-managed business devices that are at, or within several months of, reaching end of servicing”. It adds: “This keeps your device supported and receiving monthly updates that are critical to security and ecosystem health.”
If you’re still keen to stick with Windows 10 and are happy with 22H2, then you’re in luck. Security updates will continue to come through for this version until October 14, 2025, before the inevitable push to move to Windows 11.
Even then, you’ll still probably be able to get third-party patches from companies such as 0patch.
Windows are understandably keen for everyone to update to the latest version of Windows 11. Steps such as its new security update are part of efforts to encourage stragglers to move up. Of course, no company can continue supporting old systems indefinitely, so it’s no surprise that Windows has stopped selling licenses for Windows 10 Home, Pro, and Workstation since January 2023.
Third-party retailers still have them available in both download and physical copies. However, it’s worth noting that performance will likely drop sharply without servicing and security updates from Windows.
