Thierry Mouchard, national secretary and treasurer of the Confederal Union of Retirees, is also a computer enthusiast. It is for this reason that after reminding us of the saga of previous Windows versions, he gives us his advice following the end of support for Windows 10.
Windows XP lasted from 2001 to 2014, 13 years before support for this version ended. Windows Vista (2007-2017) succeeded it with little success. Windows 7 quickly replaced Vista (2007 to 2020). Its successor, Windows 8, like Vista, lasted a short time (2012-2023). Finally, before Windows 11 (2021) version 10 of Windows (2015) was released.
Windows versions therefore have a very variable lifespan. Above all, the different versions overlap almost all the time. As for the lifespan of Windows versions, it can be very long depending on the quality and durability of certain versions. There are still many computers running Windows 7 today.
What’s happening today?
The process put in place for Windows 10 from October 14, 2025, Microsoft launched it for each of its versions. This is neither a matter of banning the version nor deleting it. Microsoft has announced, as it always does, “that it will no longer provide software updates, technical support or security patches for Windows 10”.
Moreover, the end of this support is also valid from October 14, 2025 for Windows 8.1 and Windows 7.
Microsoft adds: “Now, like any trusted tool, it is time to move to another version.” This obviously allows it to push the use of Windows 11 which is not that popular with users. In August 2025, Windows 11 experienced a drop of more than 4% in market share, thus confirming the greater use in number of devices equipped with Windows 10.
To change or not to change? That is the question
As soon as it was launched, Microsoft announced the incompatibility of Windows 11 with older computers (which had been able to move from Windows 8.1 to Windows 10 without any problem), for technical and hardware reasons. Owners of older computers were then pushed to buy a newer machine. This is the argument still used today with the end of support.
But most specialists declare “that under certain conditions, it is still possible to keep version 10 of Windows on your computer“. The first condition is to have installed a security suite (antivirus, VPN, password manager, parental controls, webcam protection) and to update it regularly. The second is to try to no longer be gullible in the face of phishing or other hacking attempts (see Fil Bleu n°278 and n°281) because this is where the real security vulnerabilities in our computers are found.
Install quand même Windows 11
You can still install Windows 11, even on a slightly old machine. But it is a fairly complicated maneuver for beginners and should therefore be reserved for experts. Some links to specialized sites for those who would like to start the process.
Thierry Mouchard
Find the serial number
Retrieve your Windows 10 product key (or license)
