Overview

• Microsoft issued the final cumulative update for Windows 10 (KB5066791) on October 14, a mandatory release that fixes 172 vulnerabilities, including six zero‑days.
• Extended Security Updates are available for one year with three enrollment choices: free Microsoft account activation that requires sign‑in at least every 60 days, redemption of 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or a one‑time payment of about $30 plus tax.
• Microsoft confirms Defender on Windows 10 will continue to receive antivirus and threat intelligence updates, and security intelligence updates are pledged through October 2028, though these do not replace missing OS‑level patches.
• Microsoft says security updates for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will continue through October 10, 2028, delivered via standard update channels.
• A sizable installed base remains on Windows 10, with about 32.18% of surveyed Steam users and over 40% of global Windows users still on the OS, as a third‑party lightweight Windows 11 build, tiny11 25H2, emerges as an unofficial option for older hardware.