A familiar misconception has resurfaced: a previously debunked claim about Microsoft’s support deadlines for Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 has reemerged.
The Initial Report
To summarize, last January, multiple tech news platforms reported that the free upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 was limited. They also suggested that Microsoft mandated this upgrade to continue using Microsoft 365 applications after Windows 10’s end-of-support on October 14, 2025.
A Flawed Basis
These reports stemmed from a post by a junior Microsoft staffer on a minor blog for nonprofit customers, which was not an official notice and was removed the same day. A Microsoft representative confirmed that the article “contained inaccurate information and a misleading headline.”
Clarifying Microsoft’s Stance
Microsoft’s official document entitled “What Windows end of support means for Office and Microsoft 365,” stated that while Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be supported on Windows 10 past the stated deadline, they will still function normally. However, upgrading to Windows 11 is highly recommended for optimal performance and reliability.
The Recent Revival
The renewed attention to this issue likely originated from a Forbes article referencing the outdated blog post, portraying it as a significant development. They continue to highlight claims from the now-discredited sources.
Updates and Support
Microsoft recently updated its documentation, which noted that security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will continue for three years following the end-of-support date. This update is consistent with the Extended Security Updates available to enterprise customers, indicating a unified approach for all users.
Understanding Support Limitations
While Microsoft will still provide some support for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10, several limitations apply after October 14, 2025. If issues arise exclusively with these apps on Windows 10, users may be urged to transition to Windows 11. Personal and Family edition users should note that while security updates will continue, support options will be more limited.
