Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on Tuesday. The 10-year-old operating system was released on July 29, 2015 and gave users a redesigned start menu, the Microsoft Edge browser and more features.
When Microsoft ends support for an operating system, it no longer provides free security fixes, bug fixes or any updates that ensure the system will run smoothly. While a system outside of the end-of-support deadline is still usable, it causes the user to be more susceptible to risks like malware or other cyberattacks.
"If a customer stays with Windows 10 and does not take any action, their Windows 10 systems will be very vulnerable to both the new and old security threats," said Ming Zhao, an associate professor in the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence.
While this may affect thousands of users, it is an obstacle that can be overcome with relative ease. Microsoft has followed a similar cycle, discontinuing support for its operating systems about every 10 years. Most users can update their systems to Windows 11 without facing major operational issues.
"Any device purchased after 2019 should be eligible to be updated to Windows 11 if you have Windows 10 at this point," said AdilAhmad, an assistant professor in the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence.
Microsoft is giving users another option as well. If they choose not to update to Windows 11 and would like to stay on the older Windows 10 software, they can opt to purchase an Extended Security Updates program. This will provide paid security updates for a year after the end of support deadline.
"The only tricky thing is that Windows is prevalent, specifically Windows 10," Elijah Wright, a freshman studying computer science and member of the Linux Users Group at ASU, said. "It's not as if you can't use Windows anymore. You can still use it, but the timeframe is a bit of an issue."
Students may also encounter issues if they are using ASU programs on a device running Windows 10. Zhao said student computers on the old software will eventually not have access to the ASU network, meaning they will not have access to important ASU sites and connections.
The University has been taking precautions to make sure students and the school are ready for the new shift. ASU faculty at School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence have been preparing by updating all their Windows 10 devices to the Windows 11 software program, Ahmad said.
"(In) the computer science department, we've taken out all Windows 10 machines that we have," he said. "I believe that other departments should also be doing that."
Windows 10 had a long run in schools with many users. The end of support for this system means users can either continue to use the software with the associated risks, pay for ESU or update their systems. To utilize the performance of Windows 11, students can follow the steps listed in the support section of Microsoft's website.
Edited by Kate Gore, Senna James and Pippa Fung.
Reach the reporter at myerrag1@asu.edu.
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Meghana Yerragovula is a reporter for the state press. She is on her second semester writing as a reporter.
