End of Windows 10 support sparks lawsuit

Windows 10 support is slowly coming to an end. On October 14th of this year, Microsoft will stop providing security updates for this operating system. Users will have to choose: upgrade to Windows 11, pay for extended support, or accept the security risks. The system will continue to work, but without protection against new threats.

Technically, support would still be possible
In fact, Microsoft could continue to provide updates – Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 will be supported until January 13, 2032. But this release is limited by licensing terms. According to Günter Born of the BornCity blog, this is a strategy by Microsoft to force users to upgrade to Windows 11 or buy new hardware.

Action for distortion of competition
A lawsuit was filed against Microsoft in the US state of California on August 7, 2025, alleging that the company engaged in questionable business practices. The plaintiff claims that the company is artificially ending support for Windows 10 in order to boost sales of Windows 11, which only works optimally on devices with neural processing units (NPUs). According to the Courthouse News Service, this violates consumer protection and unfair competition laws.

Increased security risk
Klein warns that Microsoft's decision could jeopardize the security of millions of users - both private and business - as many are unwilling to buy new equipment or pay for additional support. Therefore, he demands that Microsoft provide free support until Windows 10's market share drops below 10 %.

The consequences are not yet known.
The case highlights the tensions between technological advancements, corporate interests, and consumer rights. The court's decision could have a profound impact on future software support policies. More information will be released soon.