Microsoft will end service updates for Windows 10, version 1909, on May 11, 2021. Operating systems that will no longer receive updates after this date are Windows 10 Home, version 1909; Windows 10 Pro, version 1909; Windows 10 Pro Education, version 1909; and Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, version 1909.
On its website, Microsoft said: “These editions will no longer receive security updates after May 11, 2021. Customers who contact Microsoft support after this date will be directed to update their device to the latest Windows 10 to remain supported. According to data provided by Kaspersky, the usage share of Windows 10 Build 1909 among consumers and business is 15% globally. Its figures estimate that 14% of the UK remains on Build 1909.
Not everyone updates their OS.
While some PC users may not wish to update Windows and some organizations have an excellent reason to maintain a stable operating system (OS) build, Build 1909 will no longer be updated to those still running the software at risk of attack. This can happen when Microsoft issues a security patch for a supported operating system.
Kaspersky argues that the same level of vulnerability applies across all outdated operating systems. Users are under threat, no matter what unsupported OS they run.
“Updating your operating system might seem like a nuisance for many. But OS updates are not just there to fix errors or to enable the newest interface. The procedure introduces fixes for those bugs that can open a gaping door for cyber criminals to enter.”
Oleg Gorobets, Kaspersky
Oleg Gorobets, senior product marketing manager at Kaspersky, said: “Updating your operating system might seem like a nuisance for many. But OS updates are not just there to fix errors or to enable the newest interface. The procedure introduces fixes for those bugs that can open a gaping door for cybercriminals to enter. If the OS is obsolete, it can no longer receive these critical updates. Even if you think you are vigilant and protected while online, updating your OS is an essential element of security that should not be overlooked, regardless of any third-party security solution’s presence.
“If your house is old and crumbling, there is no point in installing a new door. It makes more sense to find a new home sooner rather than later. The same attitude is needed to ensure the security of the operating system you trust with your valuable data daily. Windows 10 receives a significant update twice a year. Generally, each update is supported for 18 months, after which time Microsoft stops issuing patch updates. But although this has made it much easier for people to receive regular OS updates, the challenge for the tech sector is that some people are reluctant to update their systems. There is always a risk that new releases may cause existing software to break.
