Latest news with #Windows10


CNET
a day ago
- Business
- CNET
Last Chance: Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for Just $10 While You Still Can
Following the news that Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025, it's definitely time to start making alternative arrangements. It also means now's the perfect time to upgrade your PC to Windows 11, whether you're gaming or getting work done. And if you're going to do that, then going for the professional version while it's incredibly cheap just makes sense. StackSocial is running a deal that knocks Windows 11 Pro down to just $10. Considering this software normally costs just shy of $199, that's the kind of deal that you can't afford to miss. But miss it you shall, if you don't act soon. StackSocial says that this deal will end in less than 48 hours -- and it could sell out even sooner. This deal from StackSocial allows you to download Windows 11 Pro onto your laptop or desktop PC. Windows 11 Pro offers a seamless interface and supports professional-level work and multitasking. It also includes DirectX 12 Ultimate, which provides better gaming graphics by using your laptop or desktop's hardware to its full potential. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Plus, Windows 11 Pro gives you BitLocker device encryption, Azure-AD, Hyper V and other professional tools that can help you run your business or enjoy hours of gaming. StackSocial is also offering Windows 11 Home at the same price, but we'd recommend opting for the Pro version while it's this cheap. Once you make the purchase, you'll be able to download Windows 11 Pro and enjoy your lifetime license. Keep in mind that your computer must meet the system's minimum requirements or you won't be able to download the software. For PCs that are currently running Windows 10, note that if Windows Update doesn't let you install the free Windows 11 upgrade, your computer will not be compatible with this version, either. Another caveat is that you'll only have 30 days to redeem your download code before it expires. If it's new hardware that you need, rather than software, be sure to look through our roundups of the best laptop deals happening now. Why this deal matters Windows 11 Pro costs $200 when purchased directly from Microsoft. StackSocial is offering Windows 11 Pro for only $10 for a limited time when you use the promo code at checkout. This saves $189 on the latest Windows OS, making it a great option for those looking to upgrade. There's no word on exactly when this price will rise, but it's unlikely to last for too long.


CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Microsoft Offers Free Windows 10 Security Updates for Those Who Don't Want to Upgrade to Windows 11
The Windows 10 era is almost at an end. Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 and stopping security support in October. Initially, Microsoft was offering a one-year extended security update for $30, but we've got some good news: Microsoft has added a free option, allowing you to stick with Windows 10 for another year. However, in order to access it, you'll need to use cloud backup and connect it with your OneDrive account. The ability to get free updates on Windows 10 is a pretty big deal because it is still the most widely used Windows OS, accounting for just over 53% of installs as of May 2025. That leaves millions of people without security support in just a few months unless they upgrade. So the cloud backup option gives users a way out without costing them any money. The only potential issue is OneDrive. Anyone with a Microsoft account gets up to 5GB of storage for free. However, as The Verge points out, some backups may exceed this limitation, requiring users to purchase a monthly or yearly plan. At $2 per month for 100GB of cloud storage, a year of OneDrive still costs less than the $30 for a year of additional security updates, but it may still cause frustration among some customers. Windows 10 was released a decade ago, in July 2015. Microsoft will be rolling out the ESU wizard in July 2025. Microsoft How to get Windows 10 security updates for free Per Microsoft's blog post, there are now three options for those who want to stay on Windows 10 and still receive security updates: Use Windows Backup to sync settings to the cloud via OneDrive. Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Redeeming those points can buy you one year of security updates. Pay $30 for the extended security updates program. You will be presented with these options starting in July, which is when Microsoft plans to roll out the sign-up wizard for the Extended Security Updates program. Signing up for this option will guarantee updates until Oct. 13, 2026, although businesses will have the option to purchase up to three years of additional updates. So, this isn't a long-term solution, but rather gives you more time to upgrade to Windows 11. It's been an uphill battle for Microsoft, as people have been reluctant to upgrade their existing hardware. There are myriad differences between the two operating systems, but Microsoft's string of unpopular decisions along with Windows 11 compatibility issues have kept the prior generation OS around a lot longer than it normally would be.


Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Express Tribune
Microsoft issues apology for mistaken Windows 11 update fix
Microsoft has issued an apology after a recent Windows update caused confusion among users, with the company acknowledging a mistake in its handling of the issue. The apology comes after the company mistakenly claimed that a Windows 11 24H2 bug had been resolved, only for the problem to worsen. The issue, which stems from a critical "Firewall error," caused alarm when it was flagged as a "false, harmless error" by Microsoft. The error, linked to Windows Firewall With Advanced Security 2042, was erroneously reported as fixed in the update designated Windows 11 KB5062553. However, the update did not resolve the issue and instead introduced the error for all users, rather than fixing it. Windows Latest, which first reported on the bug, noted that users continued to experience the problem despite the company's claims. "The Firewall issue wasn't fixed. It kept showing up on my devices, and dozens of users told me they're still running into the same problem," the site stated. Microsoft has reassured users that the error, while persistent, poses no harm to their devices. The warning is caused by a bug in the event log entry, not the firewall itself, and users can safely ignore the notifications. The company clarified that the glitch only affects the event log and not the firewall functionality. This incident comes at a challenging time for Microsoft, as the company, its partners, and government agencies are encouraging Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11. Despite this push, the company's recent decision to extend Windows 10's end of life for most users until October 2026 has added to the confusion, particularly as Windows 11 continues to experience issues. The ongoing update problems underscore the challenges facing Microsoft as it seeks to transition users to its new operating system, all while addressing persistent bugs and user concerns.


Gizmodo
2 days ago
- Gizmodo
Windows 11 Pro Is Now Under $10, 94% Off Thanks to Microsoft's Limited Back-to-School Deal
At the heart of any good PC or laptop is a good operating system. If you're a Microsoft fan, that means that you'll want to be on Microsoft Windows 11 Pro. That's especially important right now, because support for Windows 10 is ending in October this year. That means you'll want to get a wriggle on if you want to avoid having an unsupported OS. Well, thanks to an amazing deal on StackSocial going on for the next few days that means you can pick up Windows 11 Pro for just $10. That's an absurdly large 94% discount from the standard price, and makes it one of the most affordable software purchases you're likely to make at the moment. See at StackSocial Windows 11 Pro contains everything you'd expect from the best Microsoft OS. That means it's got plenty of amazing security features, including support for biometric login, smart app control, and encrypted authentication to help you keep safe in a multitude of different ways. It has advanced snap layouts to make sure you can easily sort out your desktop as you're multitasking. It also gives easy access to a huge number of advanced features that help you be more efficient when you need to be, and DirectX 12 Ultimate means that your gaming will look amazing, as well as your work. Plus, things are constantly getting updated, and having Windows 11 Pro means that you'll get access to all of that as it becomes better as well. If you make the purchase, you'll get the code via email, and you can follow the instructions on how to install it from there. You just need to make sure your PC or laptop can actually run the OS. You can find the system requirements on the StackSocial page itself. It's not an especially demanding OS, but you should always check these things before committing any money to a new bit of software, no matter how cheap it is. A license for Microsoft Windows 11 Pro would normally cost you $200 from StackSocial, so this deal is an excellent chance to save yourself an absurdly large amount of money. You're not going to be able to get this for $10 for much longer, so if you do want to get this while saving 94%, then make sure you're quick or you'll miss your chance. Windows 11 should last for a fair few years at this point, so this is a good investment. See at StackSocial


CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Only 3 Days Left to Snag a Microsoft Visio 2021 Lifetime License for Just $10
If you're constantly making different visuals, you're probably an avid user of Microsoft Visio. If so, you probably know those reoccurring fees start to add up rather quickly. Lucky for you, StackSocial is here with an unbelievable deal on Microsoft Visio. The only catch is that this deal is for Microsoft Visio 2021. While the 2024 update of Microsoft Visio has several new features -- like an overhauled design and more shapes, stencils and templates -- the 2021 version still includes hundreds of templates and thousands of shapes and stencils for flow charts, timelines, floor plans and more. It's a great way to help organize things. While it would normally cost you around $250 for a lifetime license, StackSocial has an incredible deal on at the moment that means you can get it for just $10. Act fast though, as this deal's only hanging around for three more days. This offer is valid for new users, and the license is only available for one PC that runs Windows 10 or 11. To access all the features, a Microsoft 365 subscription is required, along with a license to use the desktop version of Microsoft 365 apps. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money. Depending on the features you want to use, some additional subscriptions may be needed, so be sure to read the full details on StackSocial. Any purchases must be redeemed within 30 days, so set a reminder if you don't plan to install it right away. Why this deal matters StackSocial deals are valid for a limited time, often less than 48 hours. That's why this Microsoft Visio lifetime license is worth shouting about. The $10 price is a bargain, considering it's reduced by over $200 and almost $300 compared to the 2024 version. Don't wait to buy as you only have three more days before the deal expires. Even if you're on the fence, for $10, it's worth it. Looking for more software on the cheap? A Microsoft Project Professional 2021 license is also just $10 at StackSocial. This is another limited-time offer that will disappear at the same time, so take advantage while you can.