Microsoft Extends Microsoft 365 Support on Windows 10 Until 2028

In a significant policy shift that will benefit millions of Windows 10 users worldwide, Microsoft has announced an extension of Microsoft 365 application support on Windows 10 for an additional three years beyond the operating system’s end-of-life date. This decision provides vital breathing room for businesses and individuals who haven’t yet made the transition to Windows 11.

 The Extended Timeline

Microsoft has confirmed that Microsoft 365 apps—including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams—will continue receiving security updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028. This represents a three-year extension from the original cutoff date of October 14, 2025, when Windows 10 is scheduled to reach its end of support.

 What This Means for Users

This policy change brings several important implications for the estimated 700 million Windows 10 users who have yet to upgrade to Windows 11:

• Security Updates Will Continue: Microsoft 365 applications will receive security patches through standard update channels until October 2028.
• Basic Support Available: Users with active Microsoft 365 subscriptions will still be able to report issues, though troubleshooting assistance may be limited.
• No New Features: While security patches will continue, users should not expect new features or non-security updates during this extended period.
• Performance Advisory: Microsoft warns that running Microsoft 365 apps on an unsupported operating system may lead to performance and reliability issues over time.
• Limited Resolution for Windows 10-Specific Issues: If users encounter problems with Microsoft 365 that don’t occur on Windows 11, Microsoft support may recommend upgrading to Windows 11 as the primary solution.

 Understanding Windows 10 Extended Security Updates

It’s important to note that this Microsoft 365 support extension differs from the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program:

• Windows 10 ESU: Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 itself, but these come at an additional cost—starting at $61 per device for business users in the first year, with the price doubling each subsequent year.
• Consumer ESU: Home users will have access to one year of ESU, while commercial customers can purchase up to three years of coverage.

 Why This Matters

This policy reversal addresses a critical concern for many organizations and individuals. Previously, Microsoft had stated that Microsoft 365 support would end alongside Windows 10 support in October 2025, effectively forcing users to upgrade to Windows 11 to continue using these essential productivity tools securely.

The extension is particularly significant considering hardware compatibility issues. An estimated 240 million Windows 10 devices lack the TPM 2.0 security chip required for Windows 11, leaving users with few options other than purchasing new hardware or risking security vulnerabilities.

 Microsoft’s Perspective

While extending this support, Microsoft maintains its recommendation that users transition to Windows 11:

“Although apps such as Word will continue to work after Windows 10 reaches end of support, using an unsupported operating system can cause performance and reliability issues when running Microsoft 365 Apps. If your organization is using Microsoft 365 Apps on devices running Windows 10, those devices should move to Windows 11.”

 Alternative Options to Consider

For those planning beyond 2028 but unable to upgrade to Windows 11, several alternatives exist:

• Office 2024: Unlike subscription-based Microsoft 365, the one-time purchase version of Office 2024 will be supported until October 2029, outlasting Microsoft 365’s extended support on Windows 10.
• Open-Source Alternatives: Solutions like LibreOffice may continue supporting Windows 10 for a longer period.

 How CinchOps Can Help

At CinchOps, we understand the challenges businesses face when navigating technology transitions like the Windows 10 to Windows 11 migration. Our team of IT professionals can assist your organization with:

1. Hardware Assessment: We’ll evaluate your current systems to determine Windows 11 compatibility and identify upgrade paths that minimize disruption and cost.
2. Strategic Migration Planning: Our experts will develop a tailored timeline for transitioning your business to Windows 11, accounting for budget constraints and operational needs.
3. Security Optimization: During the transition period, we’ll ensure your Windows 10 systems remain secure with proper updates and best practices, regardless of which support option you choose.
4. License Management: We’ll help you navigate Microsoft’s licensing options to determine the most cost-effective approach for your business, whether that involves Microsoft 365, Office 2024, or alternative solutions.
5. Ongoing Support: As your trusted IT partner, we’ll continue monitoring Microsoft’s policies and providing guidance as the 2028 deadline approaches.

Don’t let operating system transitions disrupt your business. Contact CinchOps today for a consultation on how we can help you navigate Microsoft’s evolving support landscape while keeping your systems secure and your operations running smoothly.

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For Additional Information on this topic, check out: Microsoft Extends Support for Office Apps on Windows 10 for 3 More Years

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