Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Computing
  3. News

Microsoft will stop updating the original version of Windows 10 in May

Mark Coppock
By

microsoft building tab support into windows 10 upgrade popup
Image used with permission by copyright holder
It might seem like just yesterday that Microsoft first released Windows 10, but in fact, it’s now going on two years since the company’s latest and greatest operating system started rolling out to over 400 million machines. Along the way, we’ve enjoyed three major updates bringing significant improvements and culminating in Creators Update that started installing on machines just this week.

This isn’t just a trip down memory lane, however, as the fact of Windows 10’s increasing longevity has repercussions for that handful of users who still haven’t upgraded to any of those major updates. Even though Windows 10 is a relatively new operating system that will enjoy full technical support for some time to come, the very first version of Windows 10 will soon be running out of time, as Windows IT Pro reports.

Recommended Videos

The information comes from a Microsoft support page, which indicates that on May 9, 2017, support will become more limited for Windows 10 version 1507, which was the very first version launched on July 29, 2015. Microsoft puts it in fairly simple terms:

Related

“After May 9, 2017, Windows 10 devices running version 1507 will no longer receive security and quality updates. Microsoft recommends updating devices to the latest version of Windows 10 by visiting the Software Download site and selecting Update now to manually update your device. For additional info, check out the Windows lifecycle fact sheet.”

As Microsoft points out, Windows 10 was designed to work as a service, with its major feature updates building on each other to deliver new features and enhanced security. According to the company’s policy, machines need to be updated to the latest feature update within 60 days to remain eligible for monthly security and other quality updates. That 60-day window was extended for Windows 10 version 1507, but that’s ending next month.

Most people have upgraded to Windows 10 Anniversary Edition, or version 1607, and if you’ve installed the Creators Update then you’re running Windows 10 version 1703. To find out which version of Windows 10 you’re running, go to the Cortana search box and type “winver,” then run the app that pops up.

Mark Coppock/Digital Trends
Mark Coppock/Digital Trends

If you’re still running Windows 10 version 1507 for Windows Home, Pro, Enterprise, or Education, then you’ll want to get updated as soon as possible. Check out our guide on how to get the Creators Update installed, and remember that if you don’t update prior to May 9, 2017, then you’ll stop getting those incredibly important monthly security updates that keep your system safer from attack.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Mark Coppock
Mark Coppock
Computing Writer
Mark has been a geek since MS-DOS gave way to Windows and the PalmPilot was a thing. He’s translated his love for…
How to remove a Microsoft account from Windows 11
Windows 11 updates are moving to once a year.

While many people love porting their Microsoft account to their new Windows 11 PC, just as many hate the experience. One of the nicest things about having a new computer is how little tabs it has over you, and letting Microsoft in from the beginning — especially in a way that feels required — is a bit letdown for privacy-minded people.

To make matters worse, getting rid of your account feels tricky. It not only feels like it, Microsoft is your direct antagonist in getting the privacy you want. Luckily, you can make a local account that is disconnected from the rest of your life to gain back the personal feel of your computer. Here's how:
Removing a Microsoft account from Windows 11

Read more
Microsoft plans to charge for Windows 10 updates in the future
Windows 11 and Windows 10 operating system logos are displayed on laptop screens.

Microsoft has confirmed it will offer security updates for Windows 10 after the end-of-life date for the operating system for consumer users but for a fee.

The brand recently announced plans to charge regular users for Extended Security Updates (ESU) who intend to continue using Windows 10 beyond the October 14, 2025 support date.

Read more
Windows may have a serious security problem on its hands
A finger pressing on a fingerprint reader on a laptop.

The premier sensors enabling Windows Hello fingerprint authentication are not as secure as manufacturers had hoped. Researchers have discovered security flaws in a number of fingerprint sensors used in several laptops that work with the Windows Hello authentication feature.

Security researchers at Blackwing Intelligence have uncovered that laptops made by Dell, Lenovo, and Microsoft can have their Windows Hello fingerprint authentication bypassed easily due to vulnerabilities in the sensors that can cause them to be taken over by bad actors at the system level.

Read more