Windows 10: A Beginner-Friendly Guide with Features and FAQs

Windows 10 is a Microsoft operating system released on July 29, 2015. It became one of the most widely used systems, combining the familiar Start Menu with modern tools like Cortana, Microsoft Edge, and the Action Center. Windows 10 was designed as an “operating system as a service”, meaning it received continuous updates until its end of support on October 14, 2025.

Key Features of Windows 10

• Start Menu – Classic design with live tiles showing weather, news, and app info.
• Microsoft Edge – A faster and more secure web browser replacing Internet Explorer.
• Cortana – A voice-enabled digital assistant to set reminders, search, and answer questions.
• Action Center – A notification hub with quick toggles for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Focus Assist.
• Windows Store – A central place to download apps, games, music, and movies.
• Task View & Virtual Desktops – Helps organize open apps and manage multiple desktops.
• Enhanced Security – Windows Hello allowed login with face recognition, fingerprint, or PIN.

Think of Windows 10 as a bridge between old and new computing: it brought back the comfort of Windows 7 while adding modern tools for multitasking, security, and productivity.

Development and Support Timeline

• Release Date: July 29, 2015
• Updates: Received regular security and feature updates as part of Microsoft’s service model.
• End of Support: October 14, 2025 – no more official security patches.

Why Windows 10 Was Popular

• Familiar Start Menu design combined with new live tiles.
• Continuous updates instead of waiting for new versions.
• Improved multitasking with Task View and virtual desktops.
• Stronger security with Windows Hello.

What Happens After Support Ends?

Since October 2025, Windows 10 no longer gets updates. This means:

• No new security patches, making systems more vulnerable.
• Some apps may stop supporting Windows 10.
• Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 or newer versions.

FAQs about Windows 10

When was Windows 10 released?

Windows 10 was released on July 29, 2015.

What are the key features of Windows 10?

It includes the Start Menu, Microsoft Edge, Cortana, Action Center, Task View, Windows Store, and Windows Hello security.

Is Windows 10 safe to use after 2025?

No. After support ended on October 14, 2025, it stopped receiving security updates, making it less safe.

Can I still use apps on Windows 10?

Yes, but over time, many apps may stop updating or working properly on Windows 10.

What should I do if I’m still using Windows 10?

It is recommended to upgrade to Windows 11 (if supported) or move to a newer device with the latest Windows version.

Conclusion

Windows 10 will always be remembered as one of Microsoft’s most important operating systems. It combined the best of classic Windows with new tools, serving students, teachers, and professionals worldwide. Even though support has ended, its legacy continues in the newer versions of Windows.