Lawsuit underway against Microsoft over end of Windows 10 support

The end of support for Windows 10 is fast approaching. From October 14, 2025, Microsoft will discontinue security updates for the operating system. Current users of Windows 10 devices face a choice: upgrade to Windows 11, pay for extended support, or risk security vulnerabilities. According to Microsoft, Windows 10 will continue to function, but security updates will no longer be provided.

Technical opportunities remain unutilized

Technically, a continuation of security updates would certainly be possible. For example, a version of Windows 10, namely IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, will continue to receive updates until January 13, 2032, demonstrating that Microsoft can indeed develop security updates for Windows 10. However, Microsoft severely restricts the use of this version through licensing regulations. According to a blog post on BornCity by Günter Born, Microsoft is intent on pushing users to upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase new hardware.

Competition distortion and consumer protection violations

A lawsuit was filed against Microsoft in California on August 7, 2025. Plaintiff Lawrence Klein argues that Microsoft is pursuing a strategy of deliberately making Windows 10 unattractive by ending support for it in order to monopolize the market for Windows 11 and related AI features. He highlights that Windows 11 only works optimally on new devices with NPUs (Neural Processing Units). According to the Courthouse News Service, this is a violation of California's unfair competition and consumer protection laws.

Risk for users and businesses

The lawsuit warns of increased risk of cyberattacks for users who do not purchase new devices or wish to extend paid support. This affects not only private individuals but also companies that store sensitive data. Klein is demanding that Microsoft continue to support Windows 10 at no additional cost until Windows 10's market share falls below 10%.

Possible legal consequences still open

The lawsuit against Microsoft in connection with the end of Windows 10 support highlights the tensions between technological progress, corporate interests and consumer protection. The outcome of the court decision remains to be seen, but it could have far-reaching consequences for the software industry and how operating systems deal with end-of-life phases.