Microsoft Rolls Out Free Windows 10 Security Updates, Boosts Windows 11 Migration

Microsoft Rolls Out Free Windows 10 Security Updates, Boosts Windows 11 Migration

Microsoft Rolls Out Free Windows 10 Security Updates, Boosts Windows 11 Migration

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Microsoft has officially begun rolling out a free 12-month security update extension for Windows 10 users, marking a significant u-turn on its controversial end-of-life policy. Starting today, millions of Windows 10 users will see an enrollment wizard in their settings, simplifying the process to opt into the Extended Security Updates (ESU) directly from their PCs. This move aims to provide a lifeline for an estimated 700 million users still on Windows 10, while simultaneously encouraging a transition to Windows 11.

The tech giant is heavily pushing Windows 11 as the faster, safer, and more reliable option. Recent claims from Microsoft suggest Windows 11 24H2 has seen a 24% drop in unexpected restarts compared to Windows 10 22H2, signaling deep collaboration across engineering and design teams. Furthermore, Windows 11 is introducing a new, darker Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and boasts a drastically shortened boot time after a crash, from 40 seconds down to a mere 2 seconds.

To ease the migration process, Microsoft is also introducing a new PC-to-PC migration tool for both Windows 10 and 11. This feature allows users to transfer folders and many personal settings over a home network, though apps and passwords will not be copied. This simplifies the upgrade path, removing a significant hurdle for many hesitant users.

Despite these efforts, recent reports suggest a new twist in the upgrade saga, with some users on unsupported Windows 10 systems seemingly being offered Windows 11 feature updates, even with TPM disabled. While Microsoft has not confirmed a relaxation of TPM requirements, the incident highlights ongoing complexities in the upgrade ecosystem. Regardless, Windows 10 users are urged to take action – whether extending updates or upgrading to Windows 11 – before the standard Windows 10 updates cease in October.

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