Tag: Windows 10

  • Windows 10 ESU Update KB5075912 Upgrades 22H2 to Build 19045.6937

    Windows 10 ESU Update KB5075912 Upgrades 22H2 to Build 19045.6937

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft released security update KB5075912 for Windows 10 ESU on February 10, 2026, upgrading versions 22H2 and 21H2.
    2. The update resolves shutdown and hibernation issues for PCs with Secure Launch and Virtual Secure Mode after previous updates.
    3. KB5075912 introduces changes to Secure Boot, including targeting data for issuing new Secure Boot certificates.
    4. Devices may still function without the update, but could enter a “degraded security state” over time if they miss it.
    5. Unsupported versions of Windows won’t receive new Secure Boot certificates unless part of the ESU program, and some may need OEM firmware updates.

    Microsoft has released a security update for Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) on February 10, 2026. This update, known as KB5075912, upgrades Windows 10 version 22H2 to OS Build 19045.6937, while version 21H2 is updated to 19044.6937.

    Issues Resolved

    According to Microsoft, KB5075912 addresses a problem that affects some PCs capable of Secure Launch with Virtual Secure Mode (VSM) turned on. After installing a Windows security update from January 13, 2026, or later, certain systems might experience issues where they are unable to shut down or hibernate, instead restarting unexpectedly.

    Secure Boot Changes

    Additionally, KB5075912 introduces a change related to Secure Boot. Microsoft has stated that Windows “quality updates” now include targeting data that helps determine if a device is eligible for new Secure Boot certificates. These certificates will only be issued after the devices demonstrate “sufficient successful update signals” to ensure a proper phased rollout.

    Important Information

    In a related post on the Windows Experience Blog released the same day, Microsoft explained that the replacement of the Secure Boot certificates is a comprehensive initiative involving both Windows servicing and OEM firmware. They emphasized that devices will keep functioning even if they miss the update, however, they might enter a “degraded security state” over time. It is also noted that unsupported versions of Windows, such as Windows 10, won’t receive the new certificates unless they are part of the ESU program. Some devices may require an OEM firmware update before they can utilize the certificate changes sent through Windows Update.

    Users are directed to the Microsoft Update Catalog for standalone packages, with KB5075912 entries for Windows 10 (including 22H2) marked on February 10, 2026.

    Lastly, Microsoft’s release notes mention that they are not aware of any current issues related to this update.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

    Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, leaving companies without security updates or assistance.
    2. UK businesses must choose between transitioning to Windows 11 or paying for costly Extended Security Updates (ESU), which will increase in price annually.
    3. A survey revealed that over half of UK IT decision-makers doubt their ability to maintain device security without migration or ESU, highlighting significant concerns about cyber threats.
    4. German firms showed less anxiety about security risks and costs compared to UK businesses, indicating a disparity in preparedness.
    5. Compatibility issues with applications and software are a major challenge for 47% of IT managers planning the transition to Windows 11, risking disruptions in operations.

    Microsoft is set to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, which means no more security updates or technical assistance. In some areas, customers can access a year of Extended Security Updates (ESU) for free, but the UK is excluded from this benefit. This situation leaves British companies with two choices: either transition to Windows 11 or pay for ESU subscriptions, which will see their prices rise annually.

    Survey Insights

    Panasonic TOUGHBOOK carried out a survey involving 200 IT decision-makers from the UK and Germany. The findings highlight significant worries among UK participants:

    Over half of the respondents expressed doubts about their ability to maintain device security if they either fail to migrate or opt-out of ESU.

    Chris Turner, who is the Head of Go-to-Market at Panasonic TOUGHBOOK Europe, emphasized the seriousness of the situation:

    “Postponing the transition to Windows 11 or choosing not to engage in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates brings considerable risks for UK firms, including increased susceptibility to cyber threats, compliance issues, and rising costs. With Windows 10 support ending shortly, outdated systems will miss out on vital patches. This scenario could leave companies, especially those in crucial infrastructure sectors, vulnerable to ransomware and operational setbacks.”

    Comparison with German Firms

    Turner pointed out that German organizations surveyed showed less concern regarding these risks, while UK businesses exhibited significantly greater anxiety about security threats and associated costs.

    Panasonic’s broader report outlines the financial implications. For a company managing 1,000 Windows 10 devices, ESU fees might accumulate to more than £340,000 in unforeseen charges once Microsoft’s per-device pricing is considered. The cost doubles each year for up to three years, making it an impractical temporary fix rather than a viable long-term strategy.

    Compatibility Concerns

    Beyond the financial aspect, software support presents another challenge. 47% of IT managers identified application and software compatibility as their primary hurdle when planning the transition to Windows 11. Many organizations anticipate disruptions as older hardware and essential business applications become unsupported.

    The message from both Microsoft and Panasonic is straightforward: inaction is not a safe option. Unsupported systems are prime targets for ransomware attacks, while compliance issues could result in regulatory penalties. For companies involved in critical services, the stakes extend beyond financial loss — outages or compromised systems can jeopardize public safety and operational stability.

    While Microsoft’s ESU program might provide temporary relief, it comes at a high cost and is short-lived. For most organizations, planning migration is no longer a matter of choice. As Turner stated, avoiding “decision paralysis” is crucial: delaying action until the last moment could turn out to be both the most expensive and risky decision.

    Source:
    N/A)

    Panasonic Warns UK Firms: Security Risks from Windows 10 EOL

     

    Tags: ,
  • Microsoft Windows 10 Support Ending Soon: Get 1 Year Free ESU Updates

    Microsoft Windows 10 Support Ending Soon: Get 1 Year Free ESU Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, highlighting the urgency for users to update.
    2. Microsoft has simplified support options for users in the European Economic Area (EEA) to include a free option and a one-time payment.
    3. Users outside the EEA must choose from original ESU options, which cost $61 per device annually for business clients.
    4. The ESU program offers critical security updates from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026, but is temporary.
    5. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11, with Microsoft 365 applications receiving updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028.

    The end of support for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, and this has been a hot topic for quite some time. Many users who have not yet updated are starting to realize the importance of this deadline, especially since other major companies are making similar announcements. For instance, Valve has stated that it will stop providing Steam updates for the 32-bit version of Windows 10 starting January 1, 2026.

    Changes in European Support

    Due to pressure from consumer advocacy groups like Euroconsumers and tech news outlets such as Windows Central regarding the initial ESU requirements (which included things like cloud backup and rewards points), Microsoft has decided to make things easier for users in the European Economic Area (EEA). Microsoft Germany has confirmed the final options available for individuals in the EEA.

    1. Free option (through Microsoft account)

    2. One-time payment

    Options for Users Outside the EEA

    For users outside the EEA, Microsoft is keeping the original ESU options. These private users have to select one of the following choices if they wish to keep receiving updates:

    The ESU program for business clients costs $61 per device each year. Users can renew for a maximum of three years.

    If you’re operating Windows 10 on virtual machines like Windows 365, you can access ESU at no cost, and there is no need for registration or any additional steps.

    Temporary Updates and Future Recommendations

    The ESU program will provide critical and important security updates from October 15, 2025, until October 13, 2026, but this is just a short-term fix.

    Microsoft still suggests that users upgrade to Windows 11. For those who use Microsoft 365, the related Office applications will keep receiving security updates on Windows 10 devices until October 10, 2028.

    Tags: ,
  • Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 32-Bit by 2026

    Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 32-Bit by 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam will stop supporting Windows 10 32-bit on January 1, 2026, marking the end of over twenty years of support for 32-bit operating systems.
    2. As of August 2025, Windows 10 32-bit usage is only 0.01%, while 64-bit versions dominate with Windows 11 at 60.39% and Windows 10 at 35.08%.
    3. Existing Steam installations on 32-bit systems will still work temporarily, but will not receive updates or support for new security issues.
    4. Valve’s decision is driven by technical limitations, focusing future versions of Steam on 64-bit systems for better performance and security.
    5. Users on Windows 10 32-bit are encouraged to upgrade to a 64-bit version or consider alternatives like Linux or dedicated gaming devices before the support cutoff.

    Valve has announced the final date for supporting Steam on 32-bit operating systems, marking the close of a significant chapter in PC gaming history that has lasted over twenty years. Beginning on January 1, 2026, Steam will discontinue support for Windows 10 32-bit, which is the last 32-bit OS version the platform has been backing.

    Current Usage Statistics

    According to Steam’s Hardware Survey from August 2025, Windows 10 32-bit represents only 0.01% of all surveyed computers. In comparison, Windows 11 64-bit takes the lead with 60.39% usage, while Windows 10 64-bit comprises 35.08% of the market share. With Steam boasting a vast user base of 132 million active users as of June 2024, this change could still impact thousands of gamers across the globe.

    Transition Details

    The shift won’t happen overnight or cause immediate chaos. Existing Steam installations on Windows 10 32-bit systems will continue to work “for the near term,” but they will become outdated. There won’t be any new updates, including security fixes that defend against emerging vulnerabilities and malware. Additionally, Steam Support will cease to provide help for problems arising on these older systems.

    Valve cites technical limitations as the reason for this decision. The company stated, “Core features in Steam rely on system drivers and other libraries that are not supported on 32-bit versions of Windows.” From now on, future versions of Steam will only focus on 64-bit Windows systems, enabling Valve to take advantage of modern system capabilities without being held back by older technology.

    Ongoing Modernization Efforts

    This decision is part of Valve’s ongoing effort to modernize the platforms that Steam supports. Earlier, in January 2024, the company stopped supporting Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 due to similar technical and security issues. At that time, these older operating systems represented around 0.89% of Steam’s user base.

    It’s crucial to note that ending 32-bit OS support will not impact game compatibility. Players using 64-bit versions of Windows 10 or Windows 11 can continue to enjoy their entire collection of 32-bit games without any problems. Contemporary 64-bit Windows systems have strong compatibility layers for older 32-bit applications, ensuring that classic games can still be played.

    Recommendations for Users

    For the few users still on Windows 10 32-bit, there are various alternatives available. Valve highly advises upgrading to a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 before the January cutoff. For hardware that cannot run Windows 11, options include switching to Linux distributions compatible with Steam or looking into dedicated gaming devices like the Steam Deck.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 (32-bit) Users

    Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 (32-bit) Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starting January 1, 2026, Steam will stop supporting Windows 10 (32-bit), ceasing updates for these users.
    2. Users on outdated 32-bit systems will face issues without official support, including lack of bug fixes and security patches.
    3. A small percentage of Steam users still use 32-bit Windows, with most having upgraded to 64-bit systems.
    4. Valve recommends users on 32-bit Windows upgrade to a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or 11 for continued access to updates and features.
    5. The transition to 64-bit support marks a significant shift in PC gaming, reflecting broader industry trends away from legacy systems.

    Valve has made it clear that starting from January 1, 2026, the Steam client will no longer offer support for Windows 10 (32-bit). While the platform may still be operational for a while, users with older 32-bit systems won’t receive updates anymore. This includes new features, bug fixes, and security patches, which are essential for a smooth gaming experience.

    Implications for 32-bit Users

    Even though 32-bit games will continue to function, players using outdated systems will be left without official support, making them more prone to problems. Valve has also stated that technical help will not be available for these devices after the cutoff date. This move highlights a larger trend in the industry as it shifts away from 32-bit operating systems.

    Industry Trends

    Steam’s hardware survey indicates that only a small percentage of its users still operate on 32-bit Windows. Most gamers have already upgraded to 64-bit systems, which are capable of supporting modern hardware, larger memory capacities, and more demanding game titles. This trend reflects the broader evolution of the gaming landscape.

    For the few users still on 32-bit Windows, Valve suggests that they should upgrade to a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or 11. Doing so will ensure continued access to Steam updates and features. Without this upgrade, players might encounter security vulnerabilities and possible compatibility challenges in the future.

    The Future of Steam

    By the year 2026, Steam will be fully integrated into the 64-bit environment, marking a significant transition that signals the end of an era for legacy Windows support in the realm of PC gaming. This change is not unexpected and shows how the platform is evolving with the times.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Windows 11 Surpasses Windows 10 as Leading Desktop OS

    Windows 11 Surpasses Windows 10 as Leading Desktop OS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 11 has become the most popular desktop operating system, holding a 52% market share as of July 2025, surpassing Windows 10 at 44.59%.

    2. The growth of Windows 11 has been gradual, increasing from less than 10% in 2022 to 36% in 2024, with over 400 million devices using it by October 2023.

    3. Strict hardware requirements for Windows 11 have slowed its adoption, as many older computers do not meet the new criteria, despite a free upgrade option for Windows 10 users.

    4. Windows 10 will lose mainstream support on October 14, 2025, but users can receive an additional year of free security updates if they meet specific conditions.

    5. Microsoft aims to encourage more users to switch to Windows 11 by emphasizing security, cloud integration, and ongoing support before Windows 10’s final phase.

    Microsoft has hit a big milestone in its journey to phase out Windows 10. Windows 11 has now taken the lead as the most popular desktop operating system around the world. As per the latest statistics from StatCounter, Windows 11 boasts a 52% share of all desktop Windows PCs as of July 2025, while Windows 10 has dropped down to 44.59%. This shift occurs nearly four years after the launch of Windows 11 and just a few months before Windows 10’s support comes to an end.

    Growth of Windows 11

    The rise of Windows 11 has been slow yet consistent. The operating system had less than 10% of the market by 2022, increased to 28% in 2023, and then reached 36% in 2024. The data from October 2023 showed that Windows 11 was installed on over 400 million devices. However, this growth was significantly slower compared to Windows 10’s launch, which hit the 400 million mark within just a year. In contrast, Windows 11 took twice that time. It was only in 2025, as Microsoft pushed harder before Windows 10’s retirement, that Windows 11 began to close the gap more rapidly.

    Hardware Challenges

    One key factor for the slower adoption has been the strict hardware requirements of Windows 11. Even though Microsoft provided a free upgrade option for Windows 10 users, many older machines didn’t meet the new CPU and security criteria, leaving millions unable to upgrade. Recently, Microsoft has increased efforts to promote hardware upgrades, including more noticeable full-screen alerts encouraging users to transition to compatible systems.

    Support Timeline

    Looking forward, Windows 10 is set to leave mainstream support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft has made an additional year of free security updates available to users who log in with a Microsoft account and back up their Documents folder to OneDrive. For those who choose not to do this, there’s an option to pay $30 or use Microsoft Rewards points for updates.

    In spite of some hesitance and a slower uptake compared to Windows 10, Windows 11 is now securely established as the leading desktop operating system. Microsoft is counting on its emphasis on security, cloud integration, and continued support to encourage more users to make the change before Windows 10’s final phase.

    StatCounter via Windows Central

    Source:
    Link

    Windows 11 Surpasses Windows 10 as Leading Desktop OS

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Extend Your Windows 10 Experience: Microsoft’s Three Options

    Extend Your Windows 10 Experience: Microsoft’s Three Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025, prompting users to transition to Windows 11.
    2. Windows 10 remains widely used, with 53% of computers globally still running this version.
    3. Extended Security Updates (ESU) will be available for individual users for $30, allowing an extra year of usage.
    4. Windows Backup can be used for free synchronization of data with the Microsoft cloud.
    5. The Microsoft Rewards program allows users to earn points for activities, which can be used for subscription benefits.

    Since it was introduced, Windows 10 has fulfilled the hopes of its users while providing state-of-the-art features. Yet, this service is set to end on October 14, paving the way for Windows 11. Microsoft has come up with three plans to extend your experience with the current version, ensuring you still get regular updates.

    Impact on Users

    This change will have significant implications for millions. As per StatCounter, Windows 10 remains the most prevalent version globally, with 53% of computers using this software. Moreover, Microsoft faces challenges in encouraging users to shift to Windows 11, particularly given the technical requirements that must be met to run this new software. Essentially, some users may find their computers inadequate for supporting this version.

    Options for Users

    As the deadline of October 14, 2025, draws nearer, the company has opted to provide various solutions for those who are still undecided. Consequently, the special Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, initially designed for businesses, will now be accessible to individual users. Specifically, for a fee of $30, you can gain an additional year of Windows 10 usage. Keep in mind, however, there won’t be any more extensions, and you’ll need to decide when the deadline arrives. For business users, the price is $61 per user.

    Alternative Solutions

    Another helpful option is utilizing Windows Backup. This feature allows you to synchronize your data with the Microsoft cloud, enabling you to access the ESU program without any costs involved.

    Finally, you might want to consider the Microsoft Rewards program. This initiative lets users earn points through activities like searching on Bing, playing Xbox games, or buying software from the official store. In this scenario, subscribing to the program requires just 1,000 reward points.

    In conclusion, the transition to Windows 11 appears unavoidable for all users, even after October 14, 2025. Consequently, millions will need to make a decision to ensure they enjoy enhanced security on a daily basis.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Microsoft Unveils Copilot Vision for Windows: Key Features Revealed

    Microsoft Unveils Copilot Vision for Windows: Key Features Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced User Assistance: Copilot Vision helps users with tasks like photo editing, creating marketing flyers, and integrating visual data by providing suggestions through text, images, and voice.

    2. Privacy Measures: Microsoft ensures that no visual information is stored for AI training, and the AI only activates with user permission, maintaining user privacy.

    3. Content Supervision: Responses from Copilot are monitored for unsafe content, and the AI is restricted from accessing rights-protected media or inappropriate materials.

    4. Dual Application Engagement: Users can interact with up to two applications at once for a more integrated visual experience with Copilot.

    5. Availability: Copilot Vision is available for Windows 10 and 11 users in the U.S., with options for upgrading from older Windows versions to access the feature.

    Microsoft has introduced Copilot Vision on Windows, featuring Highlights, which enhances the integrated AI’s capability to support users with their everyday tasks by being able to view on-screen information and applications.

    Enhanced User Assistance

    With Copilot, users can request help for various tasks such as photo editing, creating appealing marketing flyers, choosing suitable images for publications, and integrating visual data into documents by adding text. Besides providing replies through text, images, and translations, the AI can now also articulate its suggestions and answers. Users can engage with up to two applications simultaneously for a visual experience with Copilot.

    Privacy Measures in Place

    To tackle privacy issues, Microsoft assures that no visual information or context is stored or utilized for AI training. Nevertheless, responses from Copilot are supervised for any unsafe content, while voice-to-text transcriptions are kept until they are manually erased. The AI cannot access rights-protected media (DRM) and is restricted from engaging with inappropriate or adult materials, such as certain images. The Copilot Vision AI activates only when a user clicks the Vision glasses icon to seek assistance.

    Availability for Users

    This smart visual assistant is now accessible for Windows 10 and Windows 11 computers in the United States. Users who are still on older Windows versions can upgrade to a new Windows 11 device (like the Surface Pro 10 available on Amazon) to take advantage of Copilot Vision on Windows with Highlights.

    For more information, check out the Copilot blog, watch videos on Copilot’s YouTube channel, or explore Copilot Labs for additional resources.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags:
  • Microsoft Apps Get Security Updates Until 2028 Despite Windows 10 Phaseout

    Microsoft Apps Get Security Updates Until 2028 Despite Windows 10 Phaseout

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 support will officially end on October 14, 2025, but Microsoft 365 Apps will continue to work on Windows 10 after this date.
    2. Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid potential performance and reliability issues.
    3. Security updates for Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 will be provided for three years after end of support, until October 10, 2028.
    4. Businesses are advised to upgrade to Windows 11 or consider alternative operating systems to protect sensitive data.
    5. Alternatives to Windows 11 include Linux distributions like Mint and ChromeOS Flex, which offer different features and security updates.

    The end of support for Windows 10 is coming up quickly. While it’s obvious that some users will need to update to Windows 11, Microsoft keeps surprising us with little changes regarding the end of support for the operating system. Recently, they added a new note about Microsoft 365 on their support webpage.

    Updates to Microsoft 365 Support

    Previously, the support page indicated that Microsoft 365 apps would be unsupported from October 14, 2025, meaning users would need to switch to Windows 11 to keep using them. Microsoft has now modified this message and included a new note that eases this restriction a bit:

    Support for Windows 10 will officially cease on October 14, 2025. Following this date, if you have Microsoft 365 Apps installed on a Windows 10 device, they will keep working as they did before. Still, Microsoft highly recommends upgrading to Windows 11 to prevent potential performance and reliability problems in the future.

    Security Updates After Support Ends

    To help ensure your security while moving to Windows 11, Microsoft will provide security updates for Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 for three years after the end of support, wrapping up on October 10, 2028.

    Businesses should not let their guard down, as it is wise to upgrade to Windows 11 or consider installing a different operating system due to the importance of company data. For personal users who don’t use their Windows 10 PC for sensitive tasks like online banking, but rather for gaming or basic office work, this might give them some extra time before they need to make the switch.

    Alternatives to Windows 11

    If you really prefer not to upgrade to Windows 11, you might want to consider Linux alternatives like Mint. It has a similar aesthetic to MacOS or Windows and is considered secure thanks to regular updates. Another option is switching to ChromeOS Flex, although this operating system is primarily web-based and resembles the Chrome browser with all its extension features.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Microsoft Urges Windows 10 Users to Upgrade to TPM 2.0 PCs

    Microsoft Urges Windows 10 Users to Upgrade to TPM 2.0 PCs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows 10 still holds a significant market share of 54.2%, compared to Windows 11’s 42.69% as of March 2025.
    2. Many users are hesitant to upgrade to Windows 11 due to the TPM 2.0 requirement, which older PCs may not meet.
    3. Microsoft is actively encouraging users to upgrade their hardware to support Windows 11.
    4. A recent blog post by Microsoft highlights the benefits of TPM 2.0, focusing on enhanced data security and software integrity.
    5. Microsoft is making it more difficult for users to bypass TPM 2.0 requirements, emphasizing their push for upgrades.

    While Windows 11 is slowly becoming more popular, Windows 10 still has a large number of users. According to Statcounter, as of March 2025, Windows 10 holds about 54.2% of the market share, whereas Microsoft’s latest operating system has a share of 42.69%.

    Reasons for Hesitation to Upgrade

    Many users of Windows 10 are delaying their upgrade to Windows 11 because of the TPM 2.0 requirement, which many older PCs do not fulfill. For a considerable time, Microsoft has been urging these users to upgrade their hardware and switch to the new OS, and it appears the company is still committed to this cause.

    Microsoft’s Recent Efforts

    Recently, Microsoft released a specific blog post explaining what TPM 2.0 is and its advantages. The post emphasizes that PCs equipped with TPM 2.0 can provide enhanced data security, better integrity of the software and firmware, and advanced security features.

    Even if Microsoft doesn’t directly state it, the blog post seems to draw a comparison between the user experience and security features of Windows 10 and Windows 11. As the end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, it’s reasonable to expect more posts discussing TPM 2.0 and Windows 11 in the future.

    Ongoing Push for Upgrade

    It’s also important to mention that Microsoft has made previous attempts to persuade users to upgrade through updates on their support pages. For instance, the company removed the official guide for bypassing TPM 2.0, making it harder for users with older computers to install Windows 11.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,