Windows 10 is still the most widely used operating system on desktop computers. However, its life cycle is coming to an end. It has already been announced what its last available version will be and the end of support will come in a couple of years.
It has been Jason Leznek, principal product manager for Windows Service and Delivery, who has updated Microsoft’s operating system lifecycle in a new publication titled ‘Windows Client Roadmap Update’.
Latest version for Windows 10
More than 73% of all Microsoft operating system computers still run Windows 10, according to the Valve survey March 2023 and Windows market share statistics by StatCounter.
“As documented on the Windows 10 Enterprise and Education and Windows 10 Home and Pro lifecycle pages, Windows 10 will reach end of support on October 14, 2025. The current version, 22H2, will be the final version of Windows 10, and all editions remain in support with monthly security updates until that date. Existing LTSC versions will continue to receive updates beyond that date based on their specific lifecycles.”
The recommended options, therefore, go through two main alternatives:
- Make the transition to Windows 11 now, as there will be no additional Windows 10 feature updates.
- If you must stay on Windows 10 for now, upgrade to Windows 10 version 22H2 to continue receiving monthly security updates until October 14, 2025.
Windows LTSC
LTSC (Long Term Servicing Channel) releases will continue to receive updates beyond October 2025 according to their specific life cycles. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 edition (version 21H2) will reach end of service on January 12, 2027. Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 (version 21H2) will be supported until January 13, 2032.
More information about the expected time frame for the next LTSC version of Windows 11 has also been shared. Microsoft also announced which releases of Windows LTSC will be released during the second half of 2024: Windows 11 Enterprise LTSC and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise LTSC.
“If you are waiting for an LTSC version of Windows 11, you can start planning and testing your applications and hardware on the current version of the GA channel. [General Availability], Windows 11, version 22H2. Consultation Application Trust: Streamline Application Validation with Test Base for more tips on how to test your apps.”
