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Microsoft’s Free Windows 11 Upgrade for 500 Million Users

April 13, 2025
Microsoft’s Free Windows 11 Upgrade for 500 Million Users

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, no more free security updates will be available unless users pay for extended support. If you’re still using Windows 10, you need to act fast.

500 Million Users Can Upgrade for Free

Microsoft warns that over 750 million users still use Windows 10. Of those, around 500 million have devices that qualify for a free upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft is urging users: don’t wait until the last minute to switch.

What If Your PC Can’t Run Windows 11?

If your device doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements, Microsoft suggests you avoid forcing the upgrade. Instead, you should consider recycling the device or disposing of it properly. Unsupported upgrades can lead to serious issues.

Windows 11 Upgrade Trend is Growing

More users have started moving to Windows 11, especially as the deadline approaches. But still, over half of users continue to stay on Windows 10, risking future security threats and software bugs.

The Return of “Recall” Sparks Privacy Concerns

One controversial feature returning to Windows 11 is Recall, which records everything you do on your PC. Microsoft says it helps users find anything quickly using AI. However, privacy experts are worried, especially about its use in unsafe environments or data-sharing situations.

Only for Newer PCs with AI Power

The new Recall feature needs Copilot+ PCs with strong AI capabilities. Microsoft claims this lets users find apps, images, or documents just by describing them. But even if you don’t use Recall, someone you’re chatting with might.

Major Security Warning for Windows 10 Users

A new security flaw, called CVE-2025-29824, was found and is already being used in real attacks. This bug allows hackers to gain higher access on your system. The U.S. government has ordered federal workers to update by April 29.

Confusion Over Critical Patch

Microsoft’s Patch Tuesday updates confused users. Some thought Windows 10 wasn’t getting fixes, but that only applies to older versions like Windows 10 LTSB 2015. All modern editions, including Pro, have been patched.

Out-of-Band Updates Released

Microsoft released several emergency updates after Patch Tuesday. These include fixes for Windows 11 (KB5055523, KB5055528) and Windows 10 (KB5055518, KB5055519, KB5055521, KB5055547) to solve new problems.

Mysterious “inetpub” Folder Raises Questions

A new folder called “inetpub” has appeared after updates. Many users were confused, but Microsoft confirmed it’s linked to a security patch and should not be deleted.

Security Bug Behind the “inetpub” Folder

The folder was created to fix CVE-2025-21204, a bug that could let hackers change system files. Microsoft said that older support documents didn’t explain this clearly, but it has now updated the information.

Clock With Seconds Feature Might Be Removed

One small change that’s upsetting some users is the possible removal of the seconds display in the Windows clock. Microsoft is testing this in Windows 10 updates, and it may not bring the feature back.

Office 2016 Users Facing Crashes

A recent update called KB5002700 is causing Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook to crash when creating new files. This mainly affects Office 2016 users, which is still common among Windows 10 users.

Fix Available for Office 2016 Problems

Microsoft has now released a fix. To make Office 2016 work again, you must install both KB5002700 and KB5002623 updates. These can be downloaded from the Microsoft Download Center.

How to Uninstall a Problematic Update

If the update causes problems and you want to remove it, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Start and search for Control Panel
  2. In the search box, type Installed Updates
  3. Click on View installed updates
  4. Find KB5002623, then click Uninstall