The official end of Windows 10 is on October 14, 2025, nearly a decade after its release in July 2015, following criticisms of Windows 8.

As of January 31, 2023, Microsoft will no longer sell Windows 10 product keys on its official online or offline stores. The company announced that this will be the last day that the Windows 10 download will be offered for sale and the Windows Store will only offer Windows 11 product keys.

Despite the retirement of Windows 10 from Microsoft stores, it can still be purchased from other online retailers such as Amazon or eBay and offline retailers across the world. Additionally, Microsoft isn’t blocking the activation of Windows 10, as users can still buy Windows 11 product keys and downgrade to Windows 10, which will activate automatically through a digital link to Microsoft.

Windows 10 can also still be activated using product keys from Windows 7 and 8.1, and even Windows 11 keys can activate Windows 10 copies. Microsoft will continue to provide security and improvements to Windows 10 through monthly cumulative updates until at least October 2025.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft is working on a successor to Windows 11, called Windows 12, with reports suggesting that it could be focused on AI, but the release date is yet to be confirmed. Remember, Windows 11 is optional and Microsoft isn’t forcing users to upgrade. Windows 10 still has advanced features and customization options, making it a viable option for those who haven’t upgraded yet.