The End of Windows 10--what does this mean for YOU?

The end of an Operating System, OS, support is the hallmark of modern computing. Windows 7 support ended, and we all had to move on to Windows 10. Windows 11 was released years ago. I've been running a copy of my primary device for years and have had no issues. It's pretty much Windows 10. A few things have changed as far as non-power users go.

What is a power user versus not? Well, if you know how to tweak the system settings to get maximum performance out of your machine, you are a power user. If you just turn the thing on and use it as-is, you are not!

That's pretty much it. Microsoft has a date of October 2025 for the end of Support of Windows 10. That means they won't be updating it--like a car running out of its manufacturer's warranty. Support teams will be reassigned, and there will not be anyone left who will be working on broken apps or working to patch and plug holes or discover exploits that will be taken advantage of by those pesky teenagers with too much time on their hands to write viruses with which to steal your credit cards. Nor will there be support teams who develop new ways to put more ads in front of you (they call these "software enhancements").

You CAN still use your Windows 10 device after October 2025. Eventually, as one of my family members recently found out... you cannot run Windows 7... eventually Windows 10... forever. This family member hasn't updated their desktop Operating System and was using Windows 7, but is forced to change to a new desktop.

Take note that web browsers and online sites CAN detect your versions of web browsers, and when you "accept cookies" on some sites, they will be able to tell what version of the operating system you have and send you to a dreaded "your device is too old, dude, get a new one" screen.

In past OS retirement cases, Microsoft allowed users to run tools to check their device compatibility with the next operating system to see if their device is viable for an upgrade or if they need to just buy a new one. A hint: Most older devices running Windows 7, yeah, you are better off buying a $300 cheap desktop versus trying to Get Windows 11 to work. Chances are, it may not even work for Win10.

I foresee that as we get closer to October 2025, and most likely with the turn of the year, if not before, Microsoft will start pushing hard on Windows 11 compatibility apps that will be updated on Windows 10 devices. But, it's more important to be CAUTIOUS with these.

HERE'S WHY:

Hackers and bad actors will know this. So, they will write as many fake "compatibility" applications as they can and post them on social media or email them to you to trick you into installing their Malware (Malicious Software). So, before trying to run any of these, it's best to do some research. Google or Bing search the compatibility app and double-check the sources offering downloads.

Being a blackjack man, I'd say the chances of getting a solid and good upgrade compatibility app (one installed and available on your Device's start menu would be best) will be about the same as getting dealt doubles for your initial hand.

If in doubt, ask one of your Savvy relatives. Don't be fooled, and be extra Cautious! If you have any questions, you can drop me a message on Facebook or reply to this post. Of course, I'll be happy to schedule a time to assist you myself.