Tech giant Microsoft is continuously alerting those users who are still using Windows 10. The company has stopped supporting Windows 10 OS and now some important software certificates are going to expire at the end of June, which may weaken the security of the system. These certificates are associated with the Secure Boot feature. Secure Boot prevents any suspicious or malicious code from loading when the computer starts.
What is Secure Boot and its associated risks?
When the computer starts, the ‘Secure Boot’ feature becomes active first. Its job is to ensure that no dangerous virus or malware can enter the system when the PC starts. Microsoft had issued some digital security certificates for this technology in 2011, which are expiring at the end of June this year. The company has given this information through a blog post.
Windows 11 users will not face any problems
If you are using Windows 11, then there is no need to worry. Microsoft has started rolling out new certificates through monthly Windows updates. Windows 11 users will get this update automatically and will not need to take any additional steps.
Additionally, new PCs built since 2024 and nearly all devices shipped in 2025 are already coming with updated certificates.
Why is it a threat to Windows 10 users?
Official support for Windows 10 ended last year. This means that this operating system no longer receives regular security updates and patches. In such a situation, if the new Secure Boot certificate is not installed, the system may be at risk. According to Microsoft, the device will continue to function normally, but will not be able to receive boot-level security updates in the future.
Microsoft extended security program
The good thing is that Microsoft has started the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 users. Security updates can be received through this free program till October 13, 2026.
If your system is registered with ESU, you will also receive new Secure Boot certificates. But if you are not a part of this program, your computer will be deprived of updates.
