On Spot Techs

By Eric Geier (Our Founder & Owner)

Originally published by Cox Media Group on 4/20/25

​

​Thanks to Microsoft, computers running the Windows 10 operating system will lose support after Oct. 14. This doesn’t mean the computers will stop working, but the operating system won’t receive any more security updates. So, if a hacker figures a way in via Windows vulnerabilities, Microsoft won’t install a patch to fix the security hole.

​

That is unless you pay for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.

​

Pay for longer Windows 10 support. This will be the first time Microsoft will allow consumers or home users to participate in the ESU program for the Windows operating system.

​

Although enrollment hasn’t opened yet, Microsoft says it will cost $30 to get one more year of security updates, helping you keep your older computer secure a bit longer. This is a good option for those who have a computer that isn’t compatible with the latest version, Windows 11, and don’t want to buy a whole new system yet.

​

If you have an even older version of Windows, like 7 or 8, the ESU doesn’t apply. Support for those ended long ago.

​

Those computers should be replaced immediately.

​

Upgrading to Windows 11. If you have a Windows 10 computer that’s compatible with the upgrade, Microsoft might be bugging you about upgrading.

​

I don’t suggest doing the upgrade yourself. I highly suggest a tech help do a clean upgrade to Windows 11. If you’re unsure that your computer is compatible with Windows 11, contact a computer shop.

​

If your computer is more than a few years old, there’s a good chance it won’t be compatible with Windows 11. Microsoft’s system requirements are pretty strict. If your computer isn’t compatible, you should look for a new one.

​

Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019 losing support. There are two other software titles losing support after Oct. 14, as well: Microsoft Office 2016 and Office 2019. These are the productivity suites that include apps like Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

​

Although their security vulnerabilities might not be as crucial as the operating system, there are still security risks if you continue to use them afterwards.

​

Microsoft and the big box stores will likely push you into a never-ending monthly or yearly subscription to Office 365, starting at $99.99 per year for up to five devices.

​

These subscriptions can be nice if you want the software on many computers, especially if you want to utilize One- Drive for cloud storage or backup.

​

If you have just one or two computers though, you’ll be paying much more with Office 365 over time than if you were to buy a perpetual license for each device. The latest release, Office 2024, can be purchased with a onetime payment of $149.99 per device.

​​​

See our Full List of Articles Here

​