Microsoft has announced that it will discontinue support for Microsoft Office apps on Windows 10 devices once the operating system reaches its end of support on October 14, 2025. To continue using Microsoft 365 apps without issues, users will need to upgrade to Windows 11, the company confirmed on Tuesday.
After October 14, 2025, Microsoft 365 apps will no longer receive support on Windows 10 devices, and users will be required to upgrade to Windows 11 to ensure smooth operation.
This change also affects standalone Office versions, including Office 2024, Office 2021, Office 2019, and Office 2016. These versions will no longer receive updates or technical support on Windows 10 devices.
While the apps will continue to function after the support deadline, Microsoft cautioned that users may experience performance and reliability issues. The company strongly advises upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid such problems, as detailed in a separate support document.
Since the release of Windows 11 in October 2021, Microsoft has been urging users to make the switch, with 2025 identified as the year for a significant PC refresh. However, adoption has been slow, with only 35% of global Windows users currently running Windows 11, according to Statcounter Global data. In contrast, Windows 10 still powers 62% of all Windows devices worldwide.
Reasons for Slow Adoption
One of the major obstacles to Windows 11 adoption is the strict hardware requirements, notably the need for TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0, which Microsoft claims enhances security. Many users with older devices have struggled to meet these requirements, leading some to seek workarounds.
To assist users who cannot or do not wish to upgrade, Microsoft offers flexibility. Home users can delay the upgrade to Windows 11 for an additional year by purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESU) for $30. Enterprise and specialized systems, including those using Long-Term Servicing Branch (LTSB) and Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) editions, will continue receiving updates beyond the October 2025 cutoff.
What Does This Mean for Users?
While users can still use Windows 10 PCs and Office apps after the support end date, they will no longer receive security updates, leaving their devices vulnerable to potential risks. Microsoft has emphasized that the free upgrade to Windows 11 remains available, provided users meet the minimum system requirements.
Margaret Farmer, a Microsoft spokesperson, highlighted the importance of checking system compatibility: “You need to confirm that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the update,” she said.
The Urgency to Upgrade
As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches, users still relying on the operating system are facing growing pressure to upgrade. With Office app support ending, the need to transition to Windows 11 has become more urgent for those who rely on Microsoft 365 or other Office products.
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