Celebrating 10 Years of Windows 10: Top 10 Features and Changes Introduced

It’s almost hard to believe that Windows 10 is approaching its tenth anniversary on July 29. This milestone comes ahead of the cessation of its mainstream support, highlighting the significant evolution of Microsoft’s operating system. While Windows 10 experienced its share of pitfalls and controversies—particularly regarding privacy—it is frequently hailed as the superior version of Windows, especially in light of the problematic launch of Windows 11 in 2021. Its impact on Microsoft and the broader PC ecosystem is undeniable, marking a pivotal chapter in software history.

Below, we outline some of the most noteworthy features and changes introduced with Windows 10, though the selection is subjective. We encourage readers to share additional thoughts in the comments section!

10. Windows Insider Program

Launched in late 2014, the Windows Insider Program revolutionized Microsoft’s approach to product development. It provided a platform for users, both enthusiasts and everyday individuals, to contribute to the evolution of Windows by testing preview updates and offering direct feedback. Within just two weeks, the program attracted 1 million participants. This concept later expanded its outreach to other Microsoft products, such as Skype, Office, and Xbox. However, some critics argue that shifting substantial testing responsibilities to the public has led to a decline in overall quality; nevertheless, the success of initiating a public beta program remains a significant achievement.

9. Record-Breaking Launch (and it was Free)

While not a feature itself, the launch of Windows 10 marked a pivotal moment for Microsoft. For the first time, the operating system was available as a complimentary upgrade for users of Windows 7 and 8.1. The strategy proved successful, resulting in over 350 million devices transitioning to Windows 10 within the first year—primarily due to its cost-free nature and low hardware requirements, making it accessible to budget-friendly systems.

8. Windows as a Service

With Windows 10, Microsoft adopted the concept of a continuously evolving operating system that eliminated the need for major updates every few years. Instead, biannual feature updates became the norm, leading many to speculate that Windows 10 might be the last traditional installment. Although Microsoft later introduced Windows 11 in 2021, the foundation of Windows as a Service remains, with ongoing feature enhancements being rolled out monthly.

7. Significant Activation Enhancements

Windows 10 revolutionized the activation process by enabling users to link a license to a Microsoft account. This significant improvement ensured that licenses could remain with users even after hardware changes, such as motherboard replacements. While transferring retail licenses was possible in Windows 8.1, the digital entitlement feature in Windows 10 streamlined activation, a capability that continued into Windows 11.

6. Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

Introduced in 2017, the Windows Subsystem for Linux opened exciting avenues for developers by allowing them to run Linux applications and distributions directly on Windows. This innovation eliminated the need for virtual machines or dual-boot setups, solidifying Windows 10’s appeal among the programming community. Microsoft has since upgraded this feature with WSL 2, showcasing ongoing commitment and advanced functionalities.

Microsoft and Linux written on the left and right respectively with a heart icon in the middle

5. Windows Hello

Although biometric authentication existed before Windows 10, it was often unreliable and not widely adopted. The introduction of Windows Hello brought streamlined security features, including support for fingerprint scanners, IR cameras for facial recognition, and PIN entries. This innovation extended beyond logging in, allowing applications and browsers to utilize Windows Hello for authentication, thereby making biometric authentication standard on nearly all modern Windows devices.

4. Redesigned Start Menu

Despite the often-overlooked merits of Windows 8.1, its Start menu was a significant factor in its poor reception. Windows 10 sought to rectify this, offering users a blend of the classic Windows 7 Start menu and the live tiles of Windows 8. This revisited design has gone through multiple enhancements, making it a universally praised aspect of Windows 10.

3. Xbox Play Anywhere

With Windows 10, Microsoft improved its relationship with PC gamers by launching the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative. This program allowed players to purchase a game once and play it on either PC or Xbox, seamlessly syncing progress across both platforms, a significant upgrade for the gaming ecosystem.

2. Microsoft Defender: A Built-In Security Solution

Windows 10 pioneered the inclusion of a built-in antivirus solution, marking a significant advancement in user security. Unlike previous efforts, Microsoft Defender was a fully functional antivirus, offering users a reliable alternative to costly third-party solutions. Despite some controversy regarding system performance, particularly among gamers, it has consistently ranked highly in AV efficacy tests, proving itself as a worthwhile protective measure.

1. The Introduction of Dark Mode

While one might criticize Microsoft for not fully realizing the potential of Dark Mode, it remains a noteworthy feature of Windows 10. This feature, combined with Night Light, enhances user comfort during late-night sessions and is particularly beneficial for those using OLED displays. Users eagerly await further enhancements to this feature to optimize their experience.

As Windows 10 approaches its official end of support in October 2025, one can only speculate whether Windows 11 will ever match the legacy of its predecessor. Only time will reveal the outcome.

This article is part of our “10 Years of Windows 10” collection, commemorating the operating system’s anniversary. Stay tuned for more insightful content related to this topic in our dedicated section.

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