Microsoft Restricts Windows 10 Downloads from Official Sources
New Intel Processor Support for Windows 10 LTSC 2021
Recently, Microsoft has expanded its compatibility for various new Intel processors within the Windows 10 LTSC 2021 framework. For those considering an upgrade, we have curated a comprehensive list of these newly supported CPUs in a separate article. Transitioning to LTSC could be advantageous as the operating system is set to reach its end of support (EOS) on October 14, 2025. Notably, Microsoft is offering extended security updates (ESU) at a cost of $30.
Urgent Notifications Regarding Windows 10 EOS
As the EOS date approaches, Microsoft has begun displaying cautionary messages across its website, informing users of the impending end of life (EOL) for Windows 10. The official site now features distinct sections for both Windows 11 and Windows 10, eliminating previous links for downloading Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. The upgraded Windows 10 section prominently showcases a new warning banner.
Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025
Post-October 14, 2025, Microsoft will cease to provide free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. While your PC will remain operational, we highly recommend transitioning to Windows 11.
This banner also includes a “Learn more”link that leads to additional details, previously discussed in other contexts.
Recommendations for Windows 11 Upgrades
In a recent support document, Microsoft advised users contemplating an upgrade to Windows 11 from older systems to consider purchasing a new PC. The document also referenced a sponsored study touting significant performance advantages of Windows 11 over Windows 10. Additionally, a February advertisement emphasized the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11.
Updated Installation Instructions
Beyond the announcement banner, Microsoft has made modifications to the installation guide for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. This includes a newly added step-by-step guide on utilizing the official Media Creation Tool (MCT) for upgrades. Moreover, the updated guide provides clearer information regarding installation requirements, including product keys and virtual machines (VMs), while omitting certain details pertaining to DVD usage.
Previous Version of Installation Requirements:
- A USB flash drive, external hard drive, or DVD. Ensure you have a blank USB flash drive or external hard drive with a minimum of 8 GB capacity, or a blank DVD (with a DVD burner). Using a blank USB drive or DVD is recommended, as any existing content will be erased. If you encounter a message indicating that the disc image file is too large, dual-layer (DL) DVD media is necessary for burning.
- A product key. You will need your 25-character product key (this is not required for digital licenses). For assistance, please visit the page on Finding your Windows product key.
Updated Installation Requirements:
- A USB flash drive. A blank USB flash drive with at least 8 GB of space is required. It is advisable to use a blank USB drive since all existing data will be deleted. For virtual machines, a USB drive is not necessary; an ISO file can be created instead for VM use. This ISO can also facilitate installation media creation on a DVD.
- A product key. A 25-character product key may be necessary (not required for digital licenses). For help determining your product key, please refer to the guide on Finding your Windows product key. Many modern devices have the product key embedded in their firmware, eliminating the need for manual entry if the embedded key matches the installed Windows version and edition.
For further details, you can access Microsoft’s support article here.
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