Will Your Microsoft 365 Apps Stop Working on Windows 10? Critical Dates Every User Must Know

Are You Prepared for Microsoft 365 Support Ending on Windows 10? Essential Timeline Revealed

Windows 10 users face a challenging situation ahead. Microsoft has set clear dates when Office apps will stop getting updates. This affects millions of people who rely on these tools daily.

Your Microsoft 365 apps will keep working on Windows 10. But they won't get new features or important fixes after certain dates. Think of it like an old car that still runs but doesn't get new parts anymore.

Here's what stops happening:

• No new features added
• No bug fixes
• No security patches (after final date)

Critical Dates You Need to Know

Microsoft has different timelines based on which version you use:

Feature Updates End:

• August 2026 - Home and family users (Current Channel)
• October 13, 2026 - Monthly Enterprise Channel
• January 12, 2027 - Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel

Security Updates End:

• October 10, 2028 - All Microsoft 365 apps stop getting security fixes

The Gap That Hurts Users

Windows 10 official support ends in October 2025. You can pay for extended security updates until October 2026. But Microsoft 365 feature updates stop in August 2026 - before your extended Windows support runs out.

This creates a frustrating situation. You pay for both Windows 10 extended support AND Microsoft 365. Yet you still don't get new Office features.

Version 2608: The Final Update

Microsoft 365 Version 2608 will be the last version for Windows 10. It releases in August 2026. After that, the version number stays the same forever. No more updates. No more improvements.

Your Options Moving Forward

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11

The most direct solution. Windows 11 will continue getting full Microsoft 365 support. But your computer needs to meet Windows 11 requirements.

Option 2: Switch to Alternative Office Suites

LibreOffice offers a solid alternative:

• Completely free
• Works with Windows 7 and newer
• Opens Microsoft Office files
• Regular updates and security fixes
• Active community support

Option 3: Use Web-Based Office

Microsoft 365 online versions work in any web browser. They get updates regardless of your operating system.

Option 4: Stay with Current Setup

Keep using Windows 10 with Microsoft 365 until October 2028. Accept that you won't get new features after August 2026.

Security Concerns

The biggest worry comes after October 2028. Microsoft 365 apps won't get security fixes. This leaves your documents and data at risk. Hackers often target outdated software.

Planning Your Next Steps

Consider these factors when deciding:

• Computer Age: Can your machine run Windows 11?
• Budget: Can you afford a new computer or Windows upgrade?
• Work Requirements: Does your job require specific Microsoft 365 features?
• Technical Comfort: Are you comfortable switching to different software?

The Bigger Picture

Microsoft wants everyone on Windows 11. This timeline pushes Windows 10 users toward upgrading. Some will upgrade willingly. Others will feel forced into it.

Software companies often use this strategy. They stop supporting older systems to encourage upgrades. It's not unusual, but it affects real people with real budgets.

What Other Companies Do

Not all software makers follow Microsoft's approach. Mozilla Firefox still supports older Windows versions long after Microsoft stops. Some programs even work on Windows XP in 2025.

Each company makes different choices about legacy support. Microsoft chooses to push users forward more aggressively.

Making Your Decision

Start planning now. Don't wait until August 2026. Research your options. Test alternatives. Budget for upgrades if needed.

The transition doesn't have to be stressful. With proper planning, you can choose the path that works best for your situation and budget.

Remember: your current setup will keep working. You just won't get the latest features and eventually won't get security updates. Plan accordingly based on your specific needs and comfort level with technology changes.