Update (Republished April 13): Microsoft has released a new “out of bounds” update for Windows users and issued a warning not to delete a crucial security fix folder.
With just about six months left until Windows 10 support ends on October 14, Microsoft has issued its strongest warning yet. After that date, only users with paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) will continue receiving critical security fixes. In light of this, Microsoft has now confirmed its free upgrade offer, urging users to act before time runs out.
“Don’t wait until the last minute,” the Windows-maker has just warned the 750 million users sticking with Windows 10 for now at least. Microsoft has been clear with If your PC hardware is eligible for the free Windows 11 upgrade, then do that now. If it’s not eligible, do not try to upgrade your PC — instead look at recycling or landfill.
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The shift to Windows 11 has been gaining momentum in recent months, and that growth has continued into April. However, the latest figures reveal that over 53% of users are still on Windows 10. Based on estimates, that’s about 750 million users, and around 240 million of them lack the hardware required to upgrade. That leaves roughly 500 million users eligible for the free Windows 11 upgrade—and Microsoft is urging them to make the move while it’s still available.
We may see a surge in Windows 11 upgrades as the October 14 deadline approaches, with many users likely to stay on Windows 10 until the very last moment. Only then will it become clear how many are willing to risk running without security updates, and how many will choose to pay for Microsoft’s $30 extended support—or the pricier enterprise plans.
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What’s clear, however, is that Microsoft’s latest upgrade announcement may not be the driving force that moves most users from Windows 10 to Windows 11. One reason? Recall is back—the controversial screenshotting feature that logs nearly everything you do on your PC, acting like a digital memory. Despite Microsoft adding privacy controls and opt-out options, the feature remains a major concern.
Currently available as an Insider preview, Recall requires a hardware upgrade and is tied to Copilot+ PCs. Microsoft claims it lets users instantly find apps, websites, images, or documents simply by describing them. But keep in mind: even if you’re not using Recall, someone you’re communicating with might be—and their system could be capturing it all.
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The update file, which needs to be manually downloaded, is available from Microsoft’s Download Center. Microsoft advises that “if you’re not sure which platform (32-bit or 64-bit) you’re running, see Am I running 32-bit or 64-bit Office? Additionally, see more information about how to download Microsoft support files.”
If you find you need to uninstall the update, Microsoft advises as follows:
- “Go to Start, enter Control Panel in the search box, and then press Enter.
- Enter Installed Updates in the Control Panel search box.
- Select View installed updates in the search results.
- In the list of updates, locate and select KB5002623, and then select Uninstall.”
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