Windows 10 October 2020 Update reaches end of support

Surface Pro 6
Surface Pro 6 (Image credit: Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Windows 10 version 20H2, more commonly known as the Windows 10 October 2020 Update, is officially out of support.
  • The version of Windows will no longer receive security updates.
  • The Home, Pro, Pro for Education, and Pro Education editions of Windows 10 20H2 all reached their end of support today.

It's time to update your PC if you're still running the Windows 10 October 2020 Update. The update, also known as Windows 10 version 20H2 has officially reached its end of service, meaning it will no longer receive security updates. The OS version should receive its final update today and then reach its end of support.

Operating systems that are out of support are at a higher risk of attack since they won't receive further security updates. Additionally, anyone with an out-of-date PC that reaches out to Microsoft will be directed to update their device to the most recent version of Windows 10 to stay supported.

It's been over a year and a half since the October 2020 update started rolling out, so users have had time to prepare for an update.

The following editions of Windows 10 are now officially out of support, as outlined by Microsoft:

  • Windows 10 Home, version 20H2
  • Windows 10 Pro, version 20H2
  • Windows 10 Pro Education, version 20H2
  • Windows 10 Pro for Workstations, version 20H2

If you love Windows 10, you don't need to upgrade to Windows 11 just yet. While the Windows 10 October 2020 Update has reached its end of service, later versions of the operating system will remain supported until 2025.

Note that Windows 10 version 20H2 for Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise will not reach their end of support until May 9, 2023.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_. 

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