Windows 11 Situation Even Worse Now Microsoft Axed Windows 10

Summary

This video criticizes Microsoft’s move to end Windows 10 support and the strict hardware requirements for Windows 11—TPM 2.0 and newer CPUs—which left many perfectly usable PCs unable to upgrade. It covers backlash to Windows 11, user workarounds that Microsoft progressively blocked (notably via 24H2), privacy concerns like the initially unencrypted "Windows Recall," and annoyances such as Start menu ads. The creator explains enterprise exceptions, the paid extension option, and switching to Linux as an alternative. The piece questions whether Microsoft’s approach forces unnecessary obsolescence and asks viewers if they’ll upgrade or stick with older Windows versions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Windows 10 was originally intended to be the last major version of Windows but ended up being the last version for many computers as Microsoft stopped important updates.
• 😀 Microsoft’s release of Windows 11 in 2021 faced backlash due to strict system requirements, including TPM 2.0 and specific CPU models, making many older computers obsolete.
• 😀 Despite initial backlash, people found ways to bypass Windows 11’s system requirements, running it on older machines, but Microsoft doubled down on its requirements, making workarounds increasingly difficult.
• 😀 Windows 11’s official system requirements effectively mandate computers from 2018 or later, compared to Windows 10, which supported computers as old as 8-10 years.
• 😀 The Windows 11 24H2 update eliminated compatibility for many older machines by adding a CPU instruction update, blocking workarounds for users with older hardware.
• 😀 Enterprise customers on Windows 10 Enterprise versions receive extended updates until 2032, unlike regular consumers who lost support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025.
• 😀 Microsoft’s decision to charge for Windows 11 upgrades would have likely resulted in piracy, leading to a free upgrade offer for consumers, but pushing users to new hardware is still a priority.
• 😀 Microsoft claims TPM and CPU requirements are for better security, but concerns arose when the Windows Recall feature was introduced, logging user activity without encryption, causing privacy issues.
• 😀 Windows 11 is now being criticized for adding ads to the start menu, with Microsoft offering an extension program for $30 to continue receiving updates, or users can get them for free by linking a Microsoft account.
• 😀 Linux is becoming an alternative for users who cannot or do not want to upgrade to Windows 11, though compatibility issues with Windows apps may be a barrier for many.
• 😀 While some consumers are frustrated with Windows 11, most will likely upgrade their devices or continue using Windows 10 until they are forced to switch, highlighting Microsoft’s strategy to phase out older systems.

Q & A

Why did Microsoft stop offering important security updates for Windows 10?

Microsoft stopped offering important security updates for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025, because it transitioned users to Windows 11. The decision was part of their strategy to push users toward upgrading to newer hardware and software, despite many Windows 10 systems being capable of running it.

What was the backlash Microsoft received when it launched Windows 11?

Microsoft received backlash due to the strict system requirements for Windows 11, particularly the TPM 2.0 and CPU restrictions, which made many older systems, even just a few years old, obsolete. This led to frustration among users who felt their devices were still capable but couldn't upgrade.

Can users bypass Windows 11's system requirements?

Yes, some users were able to bypass the system requirements and install Windows 11 on older machines, even those with hardware as old as 2008's Core 2 Duo processors. However, Microsoft made it increasingly difficult to maintain these workarounds, especially after the 24H2 update, which further blocked compatibility.

What is TPM, and why did Microsoft make it a requirement for Windows 11?

TPM, or Trusted Platform Module, is a hardware-based security feature that enhances encryption and secure boot processes, particularly for features like Windows Hello. Microsoft required TPM 2.0 for Windows 11 to improve device security, though critics argue it was too restrictive for many users.

Why is Windows 11's hardware requirement controversial?

The hardware requirement for Windows 11, which includes an 8th-generation Intel CPU or second-gen Ryzen processor, is controversial because it made many perfectly functional older computers incompatible with the new OS. This limited access to Windows 11 to devices that were only a few years old, unlike Windows 10, which supported much older hardware.

How did Microsoft's approach to system requirements for Windows 11 differ from its previous approach with Windows 10?

In contrast to Windows 10, which supported a wide range of older hardware, Windows 11's strict system requirements were aimed at newer devices, limiting upgrades for users with hardware older than about 2018. This shift represented a significant change in Microsoft's approach, prioritizing newer, more secure devices over supporting legacy hardware.

What happened to Windows 10 users who could not upgrade to Windows 11 after the end of support?

After Windows 10's end of support, users who couldn't upgrade to Windows 11 were left without important security updates, which puts their systems at risk. However, Microsoft still provides extended support for enterprise users, and some might choose to continue using Windows 10 at their own risk or switch to alternative operating systems like Linux.

What are the options for businesses and enterprises regarding Windows 10 after its end of support?

Businesses and enterprises with Windows 10 Enterprise editions will continue receiving security updates until 2032. Microsoft has historically extended support for large-volume customers to avoid the costly process of upgrading entire fleets of computers, ensuring business continuity for many years.

What is the main reason Apple devices have not seen widespread adoption in the business world?

Apple's model of releasing new macOS versions every year without offering long-term support for older versions has made it difficult for businesses to adopt Apple devices. The lack of backward compatibility and quick obsolescence of older hardware makes it harder for companies to justify the expense of upgrading their systems constantly.

How is Microsoft transitioning towards a subscription-based model with Windows 11?

Microsoft is shifting toward a subscription-based model with Windows 11 by pushing users to log into Microsoft accounts, using OneDrive, and offering extended updates for a fee. This aligns with their broader goal of increasing revenue from services and apps rather than relying solely on software sales.