Don't miss out on free Windows downloads provided by Microsoft, the deadline is approaching!
Microsoft has announced a 12-month extension for Windows 10 support, which can be obtained for free under certain conditions. However, some experts view this extension as a delaying tactic, as it pushes the problem of upgrading to Windows 11 back by a year.
If you're one of those who wish to stick with Windows 10, it's advisable to download the official Windows 10 ISO file before October 14, 2025. Microsoft provides two main options for this:
Using Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool
- Visit the official Windows 10 download website and download the Media Creation Tool.
- Run the tool, follow the instructions, and select “Create Windows 10 installation media” to download the ISO file directly or create bootable media.
This tool is Microsoft's officially recommended method and works on Windows devices without the need to change browser settings.
Downloading ISO Directly from Microsoft by Changing Your Browser’s User Agent
Microsoft's website blocks ISO downloads if it detects a Windows OS. By changing your browser user agent to a non-Windows device (e.g., macOS or Linux), you can get direct ISO download links. This method allows you to download the latest Windows 10 ISO (version 22H2, build 19045.xxxx, updated until mid-2025) directly as an ISO file without using the Media Creation Tool.
Securing Your Downloads
After downloading the ISO file, it's essential to store it securely. Here are some suggestions:
- Save a copy on an external hard drive or USB flash drive kept offline.
- Upload an encrypted backup to a reliable cloud storage service.
- Keep checksums (hashes) of the ISO file for future integrity verification.
Remember to keep your backups in a safe, physically secure place, ideally separated geographically to avoid loss due to theft, fire, or hardware failure.
Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, but installation media and activation are expected to continue working afterward. It's crucial to download the latest ISO version (version 22H2) for the most up-to-date build before support ends.
For those who cannot or choose not to upgrade to Windows 11, it is recommended to download and save the Windows 10 ISO file as soon as possible. If you're willing to pay $30, the extension for Windows 10 support can be extended for up to 10 PCs on one account.
The Windows 10 ESU (Extended Security Updates) can be purchased for $30 to extend Windows 10 support for up to 10 PCs on a single account after October 14, 2025, as Microsoft will officially end support for the operating system on that date.
Downloading the Windows 10 ISO file before October 14, 2025, is advised for those who wish to avoid the Windows 11 free upgrade and continue using Windows 10. This can be achieved by utilizing Microsoft's Media Creation Tool or by changing the browser user agent to download the ISO file directly. It's also essential to secure the downloaded ISO file to prevent potential Windows attacks.
