Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.

org/wiki/Windows_10

Windows 10
Windows 10 is a major release of Microsoft's Windows NT operating system. It is the direct
successor to Windows 8.1, which was released nearly two years earlier. It was released to Windows 10
manufacturing on July 15, 2015, and later to retail on July 29, 2015.[20] Windows 10 was made Version of the Windows NT operating
available for download via MSDN and TechNet, as a free upgrade for retail copies of Windows 8 and system
Windows 8.1 users via the Microsoft Store, and to Windows 7 users via Windows Update. Windows
10 receives new builds on an ongoing basis, which are available at no additional cost to users, in
addition to additional test builds of Windows 10, which are available to Windows Insiders. Devices in
enterprise environments can receive these updates at a slower pace, or use long-term support
milestones that only receive critical updates, such as security patches, over their ten-year lifespan of
extended support.[21][22] In June 2021, Microsoft announced that support for Windows 10 editions
which are not in the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) will end on October 14, 2025.[16]

Windows 10 received generally positive reviews upon its original release. Critics praised Microsoft's
decision to provide the desktop-oriented interface in line with previous versions of Windows,
contrasting the tablet-oriented approach of Windows 8, although Windows 10's touch-oriented user Screenshot of Windows 10 version 22H2,
interface mode was criticized for containing regressions upon the touch-oriented interface of its showing the Start menu and Action
predecessor. Critics also praised the improvements to Windows 10's bundled software over Windows Center in light theme
8.1, Xbox Live integration, as well as the functionality and capabilities of the Cortana personal Developer Microsoft
assistant and the replacement of Internet Explorer with Microsoft Edge. However, media outlets have
Written in C, C++, C#,
been critical of the changes to operating system behaviors, including mandatory update installation,
assembly language
privacy concerns over data collection performed by the OS for Microsoft and its partners, and adware-
like tactics used to promote the operating system on its release.[23] OS family Microsoft Windows
Source model Closed-source
Microsoft initially aimed to have Windows 10 installed on over one billion devices within three years (source-available
of its release;[21] that goal was ultimately reached almost five years after release on March 16, 2020, through the Shared
[24] and Windows 10 is now the most used version in virtually all countries. By January 2018,
Source Initiative)
Windows 10 had surpassed Windows 7 as the most popular version of Windows worldwide.[25] Its
Some components
market share peaked at 82.5% in December 2021, shortly after the introductions of its successor; as of
free and open-
2024, it is estimated to have a 66% share of Windows PCs,[25] still 2.5 times its successor Windows
source[1][2][3][4]
11's share of 26% (and 20 times Windows 7's 3.3% share). The share has been declining from a
January 2022 peak of 82%,[26] since Windows 11's release, which is now the second most popular Released to July 15, 2015
Windows version in many countries. Windows 10 has an estimated 48% share of all traditional PCs manufacturing
(the rest being other Windows editions and other operating systems such as macOS and Linux), and General July 29, 2015
an estimated 19% share of all devices (including mobile, tablet and console)[27] are running Windows availability
10. On June 24, 2021, Microsoft announced Windows 10's successor, Windows 11, which was Latest release 22H2
released on October 5, 2021.[28] (10.0.19045.4474)
(May 29, 2024[5]) [±]
Windows 10 is the final version of Windows that supports 32-bit processors (IA-32 and ARMv7- (https://en.wikipedi
based) and devices with BIOS firmware. Its successor, Windows 11, requires a device that uses UEFI a.org/w/index.php?titl
firmware and a 64-bit processor in any supported architecture (x86-64 for x86 and ARMv8 for e=Template:Latest_st
ARM).[29] able_software_releas
e/Windows_10&actio
Development n=edit)
Latest preview 22H2
At the Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference in 2011, Andrew Lees, the chief of Microsoft's
(10.0.19045.4474)
mobile technologies, said that the company intended to have a single software ecosystem for PCs,
(May 29, 2024[6][7])
smartphones, tablets, and other devices: "We won't have an ecosystem for PCs, and one for phones,
[±] (https://en.wikipe
and one for tablets—they'll all come together."[30][31]
dia.org/w/index.php?t
In December 2013, technology writer Mary Jo Foley reported that Microsoft was working on an itle=Template:Latest_
update to Windows 8 codenamed "Threshold", after a planet in its Halo franchise.[32] Similarly to preview_software_rel
"Blue" (which became Windows 8.1),[33] Foley described Threshold, not as a single operating system, ease/Windows_10&ac
but as a "wave of operating systems" across multiple Microsoft platforms and services, quoting tion=edit)
Microsoft sources, scheduled for the second quarter of 2015. She also stated that one of the goals for Marketing target Personal computing
Threshold was to create a unified application platform and development toolkit for Windows, Available in 110 languages[8][9]
Windows Phone and Xbox One (which all use a similar kernel based on Windows NT).[32][34] (Specific language
packs included on
At the Build Conference in April 2014, Microsoft's Terry Myerson unveiled an updated version of the device depend on
Windows 8.1 (build 9697) that added the ability to run Microsoft Store apps inside desktop windows the mobile operator
and a more traditional Start menu in place of the Start screen seen in Windows 8. The new Start menu (for cellular
takes after Windows 7's design by using only a portion of the screen and including an application connected devices)
listing in the left column. The right column displays Windows 8-style app tiles. Myerson said that or device
these changes would occur in a future update, but did not elaborate.[35][36] Microsoft also unveiled the manufacturer.

1 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

concept of a "universal Windows app", allowing Windows Store apps created for Windows 8.1 to be Additional language
ported to Windows Phone 8.1 and Xbox One while sharing a common codebase, with an interface packs are available
designed for different device form factors, and allowing user data and licenses for an app to be shared for download on the
between multiple platforms. Windows Phone 8.1 would share nearly 90% of the common Windows Microsoft Store,
Runtime APIs with Windows 8.1 on PCs.[35][37][38][39] pursuant to
manufacturer and
Screenshots of a Windows build purported to be Threshold were leaked in July 2014, showing the carrier support.)
previously presented Start menu and windowed Windows Store apps,[34] followed by a further
List of languages [show]
screenshot of a build identifying itself as "Windows Technical Preview", numbered 9834, in
September 2014, showing a new virtual desktop system, a notification center, and a new File Explorer Afrikaans - Afrikaans

icon.[40] Azərbaycan - Azerbaijani

Bosanski - Bosnian
Català (Espanya, valencià) - Catalan (Spain,
Announcement
Valencian)
On September 30, 2014, Microsoft officially announced that Threshold would be unveiled during a
media event as Windows 10. Myerson said that Windows 10 would be Microsoft's "most Català (Espanya) - Catalan (Spain)

comprehensive platform ever", providing a single, unified platform for desktop and laptop computers, Čeština - Czech
tablets, smartphones, and all-in-one devices.[41][42][43] He emphasized that Windows 10 would take Cymraeg - Welsh
steps towards restoring user interface mechanics from Windows 7 to improve the experience for users
Dansk - Danish
on non-touch devices, noting criticism of Windows 8's touch-oriented interface by keyboard and
Deutsch - German
mouse users.[44][45] Despite these concessions, Myerson noted that the touch-optimized interface
would evolve as well on Windows 10.[46] Èdè Yorùbá - Yoruba
Eesti - Estonian
In regards to Microsoft naming the new operating system Windows 10 instead of Windows 9, Terry
English (United Kingdom) - English (United
Myerson said that "based on the product that's coming, and just how different our approach will be
Kingdom)
overall, it wouldn't be right to call it Windows 9."[47] He also joked that they could not call it
"Windows One" (referring to several recent Microsoft products with a similar brand, such as English (United States) - English (United

OneDrive, OneNote, and the Xbox One) because Windows 1.0 already existed.[48] At a San Francisco States)

conference in October 2014, Tony Prophet, Microsoft's Vice President of Windows Marketing, said Español (España) - Spanish (Spain)
that Windows 9 "came and went", and that Windows 10 would not be "an incremental step from Español (México) - Spanish (Mexico)
Windows 8.1", but "a material step. We're trying to create one platform, one eco-system that unites as
Euskara - Basque
many of the devices from the small embedded Internet of Things, through tablets, through phones,
Filipino - Filipino
through PCs and, ultimately, into the Xbox."[49]
Français (Canada) - French (Canada)
Further details surrounding Windows 10's consumer-oriented features were presented during another Français (France) - French (France)
media event held on January 21, 2015, titled "Windows 10: The Next Chapter". The keynote featured
Gaeilge - Irish
the unveiling of Cortana integration within the operating system, new Xbox-oriented features,
Windows 10 Mobile, an updated Office Mobile suite, Surface Hub—a large-screened Windows 10 Gàidhlig - Scottish Gaelic

device for enterprise collaboration based upon Perceptive Pixel technology,[50] along with Galego - Galician
HoloLens-augmented reality eyewear and an associated platform for building apps that can render Hausa - Hausa
holograms through HoloLens.[51]
Hrvatski - Croatian

Additional developer-oriented details surrounding the "Universal Windows Platform" concept were Igbo - Igbo
revealed and discussed during Microsoft's Build developers' conference. Among them were the Indonesia - Indonesian
unveiling of "Islandwood", which provides a middleware toolchain for compiling Objective-C-based IsiXhosa - Xhosa
software (particularly iOS) to run as universal apps on Windows 10 and Windows 10 Mobile. A port
IsiZulu - Zulu
of Candy Crush Saga made using the toolkit, which shared much of its code with the iOS version,
was demonstrated, alongside the announcement that the King-developed game would be bundled with Íslenska - Icelandic

Windows 10 at launch.[52][53][54][55] Italiano - Italian

K’iche’ - K’iche’
At the 2015 Ignite conference, Microsoft employee Jerry Nixon stated that Windows 10 would be the
Kinyarwanda - Kinyarwanda
"last version of Windows", a statement reflecting the company's intent to apply the software as a
service business model to Windows, with new versions and updates to be released over an indefinite Kiswahili - Swahili
period.[56][57][58] In 2021, however, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 would be succeeded on Latviešu - Latvian
compatible hardware by Windows 11–and that Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025, Lëtzebuergesch - Luxembourgish
marking a departure from what had been dubbed "Windows as a service".[59][60]
Lietuvių - Lithuanian
Magyar - Hungarian
Release and marketing Malti - Maltese
On June 1, 2015, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 would be released on July 29, 2015.[20] On Māori - Maori
July 20, 2015, Microsoft began "Upgrade Your World", an advertising campaign centering on
Melayu - Malay
Windows 10, with the premiere of television commercials in Australia, Canada, France, Germany,
Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The commercials focused on the tagline "A more Nederlands - Dutch

human way to do", emphasizing new features and technologies supported by Windows 10 that sought Norsk bokmål - Norwegian Bokmål
to provide a more "personal" experience to users.[61][62] The campaign culminated with launch events Norsk nynorsk - Norwegian Nynorsk
in thirteen cities on July 29, 2015, which celebrated "the unprecedented role our biggest fans played in O‘zbek - Uzbek
the development of Windows 10".[63]
Polski - Polish
Português (Brasil) - Portuguese (Brazil)
Features

2 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

Windows 10 makes its user experience and functionality more consistent between different classes of Português (Portugal) - Portuguese (Portugal)
device, and addresses many shortcomings of the user interface introduced in Windows 8.[44][45][64] Română - Romanian
Windows 10 Mobile, the successor to Windows Phone 8.1, shared some user interface elements and
Runasimi - Quechua
apps with its PC counterpart.[65]
Sesotho sa Leboa - Northern Soto
Windows 10 supports universal apps, an expansion of the Metro-style first introduced in Windows 8. Setswana - Tswana
Universal apps can be designed to run across multiple Microsoft product families with nearly identical
Shqip - Albanian
code—including PCs, tablets, smartphones, embedded systems, Xbox One, Surface Hub and Mixed
Reality. The Windows user interface was revised to handle transitions between a mouse-oriented Slovenčina - Slovak

interface and a touchscreen-optimized interface based on available input devices—particularly on 2- Slovenščina - Slovenian
in-1 PCs. Both interfaces include an updated Start menu which incorporates elements of Windows 7's Srpski - Serbian (Latin)
traditional Start menu with the tiles of Windows 8. Windows 10 also introduced the Microsoft Edge
Suomi - Finnish
web browser, a virtual desktop system, a window and desktop management feature called Task View,
Svenska - Swedish
support for fingerprint and face recognition login, new security features for enterprise environments,
and DirectX 12. Tiếng Việt - Vietnamese
Türkçe - Turkish
The Windows Runtime app ecosystem was revised into the Universal Windows Platform (UWP).[37]
[66][67] These universal apps are made to run across multiple platforms and device classes, including Türkmen dili - Turkmen

smartphones, tablets, Xbox One consoles, and other devices compatible with Windows 10. Windows Wolof - Wolof

apps share code across platforms, have responsive designs that adapt to the needs of the device and Ελληνικά - Greek
available inputs, can synchronize data between Windows 10 devices (including notifications, Беларуская - Belarusian
credentials, and allowing cross-platform multiplayer for games), and are distributed through the
Български - Bulgarian
Microsoft Store (rebranded from Windows Store since September 2017).[68] Developers can allow
Кыргызча - Kyrgyz
"cross-buys", where purchased licenses for an app apply to all of the user's compatible devices, rather
than only the one they purchased on (e.g., a user purchasing an app on PC is also entitled to use the Қазақ тілі - Kazakh
smartphone version at no extra cost).[38][69][70] Македонски - Macedonian
Монгол - Mongolian
The ARM version of Windows 10 allows running applications for x86 processors through 32-bit
Русский - Russian
software emulation.[71]
Српски (ћирилица, Босна и
On Windows 10, the Microsoft Store serves as a unified storefront for apps, video content, and Херцеговина) - Serbian (Cyrillic, Bosnia &
eBooks.[72] Windows 10 also allows web apps and desktop software (using either Win32 or .NET Herzegovina)
Framework) to be packaged for distribution on the Microsoft Store. Desktop software distributed
Српски (ћирилица, Србија) - Serbian
through Windows Store is packaged using the App-V system to allow sandboxing.[73][74]
(Cyrillic, Serbia)

Татар - Tatar
User interface and desktop Тоҷикӣ - Tajik
A new iteration of the Start menu is used on the Windows 10 desktop, with a list of places and other Українська - Ukrainian
options on the left side, and tiles representing applications on the right. The menu can be resized, and
ქართული - Georgian
expanded into a full-screen display, which is the default option in Tablet mode.[44][64][75] A new
Հայերեն - Armenian
virtual desktop system was added by a feature known as Task View, which displays all open windows
and allows users to switch between them, or switch between multiple workspaces.[44][64] Universal ‫ עברית‬- Hebrew
apps, which previously could be used only in full screen mode, can now be used in self-contained �‫ ﺋﯘﻳﻐﯘرﭼ‬- Uyghur
windows similarly to other programs.[44][64] Program windows can now be snapped to quadrants of ‫ اردو‬- Urdu
the screen by dragging them to the corner. When a window is snapped to one side of the screen, Task
‫ اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﺔ‬- Arabic
View appears and the user is prompted to choose a second window to fill the unused side of the
‫ ﭘﻨﺠﺎﺑﯽ‬- Punjabi (Arabic)
screen (called "Snap Assist").[64] The Windows system icons were also changed.[75]
‫ ﺳﻨﮅي‬- Sindhi (Arabic)
Charms have been removed; their functionality in universal apps is accessed from an App commands (‫ ﻓﺎرﺳﯽ )اﻓﻐﺎﻧﺴﺘﺎن‬- Persian (Afghanistan)
menu on their title bar.[44][64] In its place is Action Center, which displays notifications and settings
(‫ ﻓﺎرﺳﯽ )اﯾﺮان‬- Persian (Iran)
toggles. It is accessed by clicking an icon in the notification area, or dragging from the right of the
screen. Notifications can be synced between multiple devices.[65][75] The Settings app (formerly PC ‫ ﮐﻮردﯾﯽ ﻧﺎوەﻧﺪی‬- Sorani Kurdish
Settings) was refreshed and now includes more options that were previously exclusive to the desktop ትግርኛ - Tigrinya
Control Panel.[76][77] አማርኛ - Amharic
क�कणी - Konkani
Windows 10 is designed to adapt its user interface based on the type of device being used and
available input methods. It offers two separate user interface modes: a user interface optimized for नेपाली - Nepali
mouse and keyboard, and a "Tablet mode" designed for touchscreens. Users can toggle between these मराठी - Marathi
two modes at any time, and Windows can prompt or automatically switch when certain events occur, िह�दी - Hindi
such as disabling Tablet mode on a tablet if a keyboard or mouse is plugged in, or when a 2-in-1 PC is
অসমীয়া - Assamese
switched to its laptop state. In Tablet mode, programs default to a maximized view, and the taskbar
contains a back button and hides buttons for opened or pinned programs by default; Task View is used বাংলা (বাংলােদশ) - Bangla (Bangladesh)
instead to switch between programs. The full screen Start menu is used in this mode, similarly to বাংলা (ভারত) - Bangla (India)
Windows 8, but scrolls vertically instead of horizontally.[45][78][79][80] ਪੰਜਾਬੀ - Punjabi
ગુજરાતી - Gujarati

System security ଓଡ଼ିଆ - Odia

Windows 10 incorporates multi-factor authentication technology based upon standards developed by த�� - Tamil
the FIDO Alliance.[81] The operating system includes improved support for biometric authentication ��� - Telugu
through the Windows Hello platform. Devices with supported cameras (requiring infrared

3 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

illumination, such as Intel RealSense) allow users to log in with iris or face recognition, similarly to ಕನ�ಡ - Kannada
Kinect. Devices with supported readers allow users to log in through fingerprint recognition. Support
മലയാളം - Malayalam
was also added for palm-vein scanning through a partnership with Fujitsu in February 2018.[82]
�ංහල - Sinhala
Credentials are stored locally and protected using asymmetric encryption.[83]
ไทย - Thai
In 2017, researchers demonstrated that Windows Hello could be bypassed on fully-updated Windows ລາວ - Lao
10 version 1703 with a color printout of a person's picture taken with an IR camera.[84] In 2021,
ែខ�រ - Khmer
researchers were again able to bypass the Windows Hello functionalities by using custom hardware
ᏣᎳᎩ - Cherokee
disguised as a camera, which presented an IR photo of the owner's face.[85]
한국어 - Korean
In addition to biometric authentication, Windows Hello supports authentication with a PIN. By 中⽂ (简体) - Chinese (Simplified)
default, Windows requires a PIN to consist of four digits, but can be configured to permit more
中⽂ (繁體) - Chinese (Traditional)
complex PINs. However, a PIN is not a simpler password. While passwords are transmitted to domain
controllers, PINs are not. They are tied to one device, and if compromised, only one device is ⽇本語 - Japanese
affected. Backed by a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip, Windows uses PINs to create strong
Update method Windows Update
asymmetric key pairs. As such, the authentication token transmitted to the server is harder to crack. In
Windows Server
addition, whereas weak passwords may be broken via rainbow tables, TPM causes the much-simpler
Update Services
Windows PINs to be resilient to brute-force attacks.[86]
Platforms IA-32, x86-64,
When Windows 10 was first introduced, multi-factor authentication was provided by two components: ARMv7,[10][11]
Windows Hello and Passport (not to be confused with the Passport platform of 1998). Later, Passport ARMv8[12][13][14]
was merged into Windows Hello.[87][83] Kernel type Hybrid (Windows NT
kernel)
The enterprise edition of Windows 10 offers additional security features; administrators can set up
policies for the automatic encryption of sensitive data, selectively block applications from accessing Userland Native API
encrypted data, and enable Device Guard—a system which allows administrators to enforce a high- Windows API
security environment by blocking the execution of software that is not digitally signed by a trusted .NET Framework
vendor or Microsoft. Device Guard is designed to protect against zero-day exploits, and runs inside a Universal Windows
hypervisor so that its operation remains separated from the operating system itself.[81][88] Platform
Windows Subsystem
for Linux
Command line NTVDM (IA-32 only)
The console windows based on Windows Console (for any console app, not just PowerShell and Default Windows shell
Windows Command Prompt) can now be resized without any restrictions, can be made to cover the user interface (graphical)
full screen by pressing Alt + ↵ Enter , and can use standard keyboard shortcuts, such as those for cut, License Trialware,[15]
copy, and paste. Other features such as word wrap and transparency were also added. These functions Microsoft Software
can be disabled to revert to the legacy console if needed.[89] Assurance, MSDN
subscription,
The Anniversary Update added Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which allows the installation Microsoft Imagine
of a user space environment from a supported Linux distribution that runs natively on Windows. The
Preceded by Windows 8.1 (2013)
subsystem translates Linux system calls to those of the Windows NT kernel (only claims full system
call compatibility as of WSL 2, included in a later Windows update). The environment can execute Succeeded by Windows 11 (2021)
the Bash shell and 64-bit command-line programs (WSL 2 also supports 32-bit Linux programs and Official website Windows 10 (https://
graphics, assuming supporting software installed,[90] and GPUs support for other uses[91]). Windows web.archive.org/we
applications cannot be executed from the Linux environment, and vice versa. Linux distributions for b/20150801210403/h
Windows Subsystem for Linux are obtained through Microsoft Store. The feature initially supported ttp://www.microsoft.c
an Ubuntu-based environment; Microsoft announced in May 2017 that it would add Fedora and om/en-us/windows)
OpenSUSE environment options as well.[92][93][94][95][96][97][98] (archived at Wayback
Machine)
Support status
Storage requirements
All non-LTSC versions with the latest
To reduce the storage footprint of the operating system, Windows 10 automatically compresses system
feature update:
files. The system can reduce the storage footprint of Windows by approximately 1.5 GB for 32-bit
Supported until October 14, 2025.[16][17]
systems and 2.6 GB for 64-bit systems. The level of compression used is dependent on a performance
assessment performed during installations or by OEMs, which tests how much compression can be
Extended Security Updates (ESU) support
used without harming operating system performance. Furthermore, the Refresh and Reset functions
for version 22H2 until at most October 10,
use runtime system files instead, making a separate recovery partition redundant, allowing patches and
2028.[18][19]
updates to remain installed following the operation, and further reducing the amount of space required
See § Extended Security Updates for
for Windows 10 by up to 12 GB. These functions replace the WIMBoot mode introduced on
details.
Windows 8.1 Update, which allowed OEMs to configure low-capacity devices with flash-based
storage to use Windows system files out of the compressed WIM image typically used for installation
All LTSC IoT variants, and all LTSC
and recovery.[99][100][101] Windows 10 also includes a function in its Settings app that allows users to
variants from 2019 and older:
view a breakdown of how their device's storage capacity is being used by different types of files, and
Supported for 10 years after release.
determine whether certain types of files are saved to internal storage or an SD card by default.[102]

LTSC (non-IoT) 2021:

Online services and functionality Supported for 5 years after release.
Windows 10 introduces Microsoft Edge, a new default web browser. It initially featured a new
standards-compliant rendering engine derived from Trident, and also includes annotation tools and Supported until at most January 13, 2032,
See § Support lifecycle for details.

4 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

integration with other Microsoft platforms present within Windows 10.[103][104][105] Internet Explorer 11 is
maintained on Windows 10 for compatibility purposes, but is deprecated in favor of Edge and, since mid-June
2022, is no longer supported on editions which follow Microsoft's Modern Lifecycle Policy.[106][107][108][109] The
initial version of Edge was later succeeded by a new iteration derived from the Chromium Project and Blink
layout engine,[110] which replaced the previous EdgeHTML-based version of Edge (renamed "Microsoft Edge
Legacy"),[111] and is bundled with the OS by default from build 20H2 onwards.[112]

Windows 10 incorporates a universal search box located alongside the Start and Task View buttons, which can be The "Task View" display is a new
feature to Windows 10, allowing
hidden or condensed into a single button.[113][114] Previous versions featured Microsoft's intelligent personal
the use of multiple workspaces.
assistant Cortana, which was first introduced with Windows Phone 8.1 in 2014, and supports both text and voice
input. Many of its features are a direct carryover from Windows Phone, including integration with Bing, setting
reminders, a Notebook feature for managing personal information, as well as searching for files, playing music,
launching applications and setting reminders or sending emails.[115][116][75] Since the November 2019 update,
Microsoft has begun to downplay Cortana as part of a repositioning of the product towards enterprise use, with
the May 2020 update removing its Windows shell integration and consumer-oriented features.[117][118][113][119]

Microsoft Family Safety is replaced by Microsoft Family, a parental controls system that applies across Windows
platforms and Microsoft online services. Users can create a designated family, and monitor and restrict the
actions of users designated as children, such as access to websites, enforcing age ratings on Microsoft Store
purchases, and other restrictions. The service can also send weekly e-mail reports to parents detailing a child's Windows Hello unlock prompt
while using Enpass (a password
computer usage. Unlike previous versions of Windows, child accounts in a family must be associated with a
manager)
Microsoft account—which allows these settings to apply across all Windows 10 devices that a particular child is
using.[120][121]

Windows 10 also offers the Wi-Fi Sense feature originating from Windows Phone 8.1; users can optionally have
their device automatically connect to suggested open hotspots, and share their home network's password with
contacts (either via Skype, People, or Facebook) so they may automatically connect to the network on a Windows
10 device without needing to manually enter its password. Credentials are stored in an encrypted form on
Microsoft servers and sent to the devices of the selected contacts. Passwords are not viewable by the guest user,
and the guest user is not allowed to access other computers or devices on the network. Wi-Fi Sense is not usable Bash for Ubuntu, running on
on 802.1X-encrypted networks. Adding "_optout" at the end of the SSID will also block the corresponding Windows 10
network from being used for this feature.[122]

Universal calling and messaging apps for Windows 10 are built in as of the November 2015 update: Messaging, Skype Video, and Phone. These offer
built-in alternatives to the Skype download and sync with Windows 10 Mobile.[123][124]

Multimedia and gaming

Windows 10 provides greater integration with the Xbox ecosystem. Xbox SmartGlass is succeeded by the Xbox Console Companion (formerly the Xbox
app), which allows users to browse their game library (including both PC and Xbox console games), and Game DVR is also available using a keyboard
shortcut, allowing users to save the last 30 seconds of gameplay as a video that can be shared to Xbox Live, OneDrive, or elsewhere.[125][126] Windows
10 also allows users to control and play games from an Xbox One console over a local network.[127] The Xbox Live SDK allows application developers
to incorporate Xbox Live functionality into their apps, and future wireless Xbox One accessories, such as controllers, are supported on Windows with an
adapter.[128] Microsoft also intends to allow cross-purchases and save synchronization between Xbox One and Windows 10 versions of games; Microsoft
Studios games such as ReCore and Quantum Break are intended as being exclusive to Windows 10 and Xbox One.[129]

Candy Crush Saga and Microsoft Solitaire Collection are also automatically installed upon installation of Windows 10.[130][131]

Windows 10 adds native game recording and screenshot capture ability using the newly introduced Game Bar. Users can also have the OS continuously
record gameplay in the background, which then allows the user to save the last few moments of gameplay to the storage device.[132]

Windows 10 adds FLAC and HEVC codecs and support for the Matroska media container, allowing these formats to be opened in Windows Media
Player and other applications.[133][134][135] Windows Media Center is no longer bundled.[136]

Windows 10 includes DirectX 12, alongside WDDM 2.0.[137][138] Unveiled March 2014 at GDC, DirectX 12 aims to provide "console-level efficiency"
with "closer to the metal" access to hardware resources, and reduced CPU and graphics driver overhead.[139][140] Most of the performance improvements
are achieved through low-level programming, which allow developers to use resources more efficiently and reduce single-threaded CPU bottlenecking
caused by abstraction through higher level APIs.[141][142] DirectX 12 will also feature support for vendor agnostic multi-GPU setups.[143] WDDM 2.0
introduces a new virtual memory management and allocation system to reduce workload on the kernel-mode driver.[137][144]

Font support
Windows 10 adds three new default typefaces compared to Windows 8, but omits several others. The removed typefaces are available in supplemental
packs and may be added manually over a non-metered internet connection.

Editions and pricing

Windows 10 is available in five main editions for personal computing devices; the Home and Pro editions of which are sold at retail in most countries,
and as pre-loaded software on new computers. Home is aimed at home users, while Pro is aimed at power users and small businesses. Each edition of
Windows 10 includes all of the capabilities and features of the edition below it, and adds additional features oriented towards its market segments; for

5 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

example, Pro adds additional networking and security features such as BitLocker, Device Guard, Windows Update for Business, and the ability to join a
domain. Enterprise and Education, the other editions, contain additional features aimed towards business environments, and are only available through
volume licensing.[145][146]

As part of Microsoft's unification strategies, Windows products that are based on Windows 10's common platform but meant for specialized platforms
are marketed as editions of the operating system, rather than as separate product lines. An updated version of Microsoft's Windows Phone operating
system for smartphones, and also tablets, was branded as Windows 10 Mobile.[147] Editions of Enterprise and Mobile will also be produced for
embedded systems, along with Windows 10 IoT Core, which is designed specifically for use in small footprint, low-cost devices and Internet of Things
(IoT) scenarios and is similar to Windows Embedded.[145][146]

On May 2, 2017, Microsoft unveiled Windows 10 S (referred to in leaks as Windows 10 Cloud), a feature-limited edition of Windows 10 which was
designed primarily for devices in the education market (competing, in particular, with ChromeOS netbooks), such as the Surface Laptop that Microsoft
also unveiled at this time. The OS restricts software installation to applications obtained from Microsoft Store; the device may be upgraded to Windows
10 Pro for a fee to enable unrestricted software installation. As a time-limited promotion, Microsoft stated that this upgrade would be free on the Surface
Laptop until March 31, 2018.[148] Windows 10 S also contains a faster initial setup and login process, and allows devices to be provisioned using a USB
drive with the Windows Intune for Education platform.[149][150][151][152][153] In March 2018, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 S would be
deprecated because of market confusion and would be replaced by "S Mode", an OEM option wherein Windows defaults to only allowing applications to
be installed from Microsoft Store, but does not require payment in order to disable these restrictions.[154][155]

Preview releases
A public beta program for Windows 10 known as the Windows Insider Program began with the first publicly available preview release on October 1,
2014. Insider preview builds are aimed towards enthusiasts and enterprise users for the testing and evaluation of updates and new features.[156] Users of
the Windows Insider program receive occasional updates to newer preview builds of the operating system and will continue to be able to evaluate
preview releases after general availability (GA) in July 2015—this is in contrast to previous Windows beta programs, where public preview builds were
released less frequently and only during the months preceding GA.[44][46][157][156][158] Windows Insider builds continued being released after the release
to manufacturing (RTM) of Windows 10.[159][160]

Public release
On July 29, 2015, Microsoft officially announced that Windows 10 would be released for retail purchase as a free upgrade from earlier versions of
Windows. In comparison to previous Windows releases, which had a longer turnover between the release to manufacturing (RTM) and general release to
allow for testing by vendors (and in some cases, the development of "upgrade kits" to prepare systems for installation of the new version), an HP
executive explained that because it knew Microsoft targeted the operating system for a 2015 release, the company was able to optimize its then-current
and upcoming products for Windows 10 in advance of its release, negating the need for such a milestone.[161]

The general availability build of Windows 10, numbered 10240, was first released to Windows Insider channels for pre-launch testing on July 15, 2015,
prior to its formal release.[162][163] Although a Microsoft official said there would be no specific RTM build of Windows 10, 10240 was described as an
RTM build by media outlets because it was released to all Windows Insider members at once (rather than to users on the "Fast ring" first), it no longer
carried pre-release branding and desktop watermark text, and its build number had mathematical connections to the number 10 in reference to the
operating system's naming.[164][165][166][167][168][169] The Enterprise edition was released to volume licensing on August 1, 2015.[170]

Windows 10 is distributed digitally through the "Media Creation Tool", which is functionally identical to the Windows 8 online installer, and can also be
used to generate an ISO image or USB install media.[171] In-place upgrades are supported from most editions of Windows 7 with Service Pack 1 and
Windows 8.1 with Update 1, while users with Windows 8 must first upgrade to Windows 8.1. Changing between architectures (e.g., upgrading from 32-
bit edition to a 64-bit editions) via in-place upgrades is not supported; a clean install is required.[172][173] In-place upgrades may be rolled back to the
device's previous version of Windows, provided that 30 days have not passed since installation, and backup files were not removed using Disk Cleanup.

Windows 10 was available in 190 countries and 111 languages upon its launch, and as part of efforts to "re-engage" with users in China, Microsoft also
announced that it would partner with Qihoo and Tencent to help promote and distribute Windows 10 in China, and that Chinese PC maker Lenovo would
provide assistance at its service centers and retail outlets for helping users upgrade to Windows 10.[174][175][176] At retail, Windows 10 is priced similarly
to editions of Windows 8.1, with U.S. prices set at $119 and $199 for Windows 10 Home and Pro respectively. A Windows 10 Pro Pack license allows
upgrades from Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro.[177][178] Retail copies only ship on USB flash drive media; however, system builder copies still
ship as DVD-ROM media.[179] New devices shipping with Windows 10 were also released during the operating system's launch window.[180]

Windows RT devices cannot be upgraded to Windows 10.[173][181]

Free upgrade offer

During its first year of availability,[182] upgrade licenses for Windows 10 could be obtained at no charge for devices with a genuine license for an eligible
edition of Windows 7 or 8.1.[178][183][184]

This offer did not apply to Enterprise editions, as customers under an active Software Assurance (SA) contract with upgrade rights are entitled to obtain
Windows 10 Enterprise under their existing terms. All users running non-genuine copies of Windows, and those without an existing Windows 7 or 8
license, were ineligible for this promotion; although upgrades from a non-genuine version were possible, they result in a non-genuine copy of 10.[159]
[174][184][185][186]

On the general availability build of Windows 10 (the original release), to activate and generate the "digital entitlement" for Windows 10, the operating
system must have first been installed as an in-place upgrade. During the free upgrade, a genuineticket.xml file is created in the background and
the system's motherboard details are registered with a Microsoft Product Activation server. Once installed, the operating system can be reinstalled on that

6 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

particular system via normal means without a product key, and the system's license will automatically be detected via online activation - in essence, the
Microsoft Product Activation Server will remember the system's motherboard and give it the green light for product re-activation.[172][187][188] Because
of installation issues with Upgrade Only installs, the November Update (version 1511) included additional activation mechanisms. This build treated
Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1 product keys as Windows 10 product keys, meaning they could be entered during installation to activate the free license,
without the need to upgrade first to "activate" the hardware with Microsoft's activation servers.[189] For major Original Equipment Manufacturers
(OEMs), Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10 OEM product keys are embedded in the firmware of the motherboard and if the correct edition of Windows 10
is present on the installation media, they are automatically inputted during installation. Since the release of the Fall Creators Update (version 1709),
Microsoft decided to release multi-edition installation media, to alleviate installation and product activation issues users experienced because of
accidentally installing the wrong edition of Windows 10.

The Windows Insider Preview version of Windows 10 automatically updated itself to the generally released version as part of the version progression and
continues to be updated to new beta builds, as it had throughout the testing process. Microsoft explicitly stated that Windows Insider was not a valid
upgrade path for those running a version of Windows that is ineligible for the upgrade offer; although, if it was not installed with a license carried over
from an in-place upgrade to 10 Insider Preview from Windows 7 or 8, the Insider Preview does remain activated as long as the user does not exit the
Windows Insider program.[159][160]

The offer was promoted and delivered via the "Get Windows 10" application (also known as GWX), which was automatically installed via Windows
Update ahead of Windows 10's release, and activated on systems deemed eligible for the upgrade offer. Via a notification area icon, users could access an
application that advertised Windows 10 and the free upgrade offer, check device compatibility, and "reserve" an automatic download of the operating
system upon its release.[190][191] On July 28, a pre-download process began in which Windows 10 installation files were downloaded to some computers
that had reserved it. Microsoft said that those who reserved Windows 10 would be able to install it through GWX in a phased rollout process. The
operating system could alternatively be downloaded at any time using a separate "Media Creation Tool" setup program, that allows for the creation of
DVD or USB installation media.[171][180][192][193]

In May 2016, Microsoft announced that the free upgrade offer would be extended to users of assistive technologies; however, Microsoft did not
implement any means of certifying eligibility for this offer, which some outlets thereby promoted as being a loophole to fraudulently obtain a free
Windows 10 upgrade. Microsoft said that the loophole is not intended to be used in this manner.[194][195][196] In November 2017, Microsoft announced
that this program would end on December 31, 2017.[197]

However, another loophole was found that allowed Windows 7 and 8.1 users upgrade to Windows 10 using existing licenses, even though the free
upgrade offers officially ended in 2017. No word from Microsoft was given whether it will be closed,[198] and some outlets have continued to promote it
as a free method of upgrading from the now-unsupported Windows 7.[199]This upgrade loophole was removed by Microsoft on September 20, 2023.[200]

Licensing
During upgrades, Windows 10 licenses are not tied directly to a product key. Instead, the license status of the system's current installation of Windows is
migrated, and a "Digital license" (known as "Digital entitlement" in version 1511 or earlier) is generated during the activation process, which is bound to
the hardware information collected during the process. If Windows 10 is reinstalled cleanly and there have not been any significant hardware changes
since installation (such as a motherboard change), the online activation process will automatically recognize the system's digital entitlement if no product
key is entered during installations. However, unique product keys are still distributed within retail copies of Windows 10. As with previous non-volume-
licensed variants of Windows, significant hardware changes will invalidate the digital entitlement, and require Windows to be re-activated.[172][187]

Updates and support

Unlike previous versions of Windows, Windows Update does not allow the selective installation of updates, and all updates (including patches, feature
updates, and driver software) are downloaded and installed automatically. Users can only choose whether their system will reboot automatically to install
updates when the system is inactive, or be notified to schedule a reboot.[201][202] If a wireless network is designated as "Metered"—a function which
automatically reduces the operating system's background network activity to conserve limits on Internet usage—most updates are not downloaded until
the device is connected to a non-metered network. Version 1703 allows wired (Ethernet) networks to be designated as metered, but Windows may still
download certain updates while connected to a metered network.[203][204]

In version 2004, by installing the August 2020 security update and later versions, driver and non-security updates pushed via Windows Update that are
considered optional are no longer automatically downloaded and installed in their devices. Users can access them on Settings > Update & Security >
Windows Update > View optional update.[205]

Updates can cause compatibility or other problems; a Microsoft troubleshooter program allows bad updates to be uninstalled.[206][207]

Under the Windows end-user license agreement, users consent to the automatic installation of all updates, features and drivers provided by the service,
and implicitly consent "without any additional notice" to the possibility of features being modified or removed.[208][209][210] The agreement also states,
specifically for users of Windows 10 in Canada, that they may pause updates by disconnecting their device from the Internet.[211]

Windows Update can also use a peer-to-peer system for distributing updates; by default, users' bandwidth is used to distribute previously downloaded
updates to other users, in combination with Microsoft servers. Users can instead choose to only use peer-to-peer updates within their local area network.
[212]

7 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

Windows 10 versions

Supported until (and support status by color)

GAC[a] LTSC[b]

Marketing Release Home, Pro,

Version Codename Build Education,
name date Pro Mobile
Enterprise, IoT
Education, Enterprise
IoT Enterprise
Pro for
Enterprise
Workstations

July 29,
1507 Threshold — 10240 May 9, 2017 October 14, 2025[c] —
2015

November November January

1511 Threshold 2 10586 October 10, 2017 —
Update 10, 2015 9, 2018

Anniversary August 2, April 10, April 9, October

1607 Redstone 14393 October 13, 2026[e]
Update 2016 2018[d] 2019[d] 9, 2018

June
Creators April 5, October 9, October 8,
1703 Redstone 2 15063 11,
Update 2017[f] 2018 2019[g]
2019

Fall January
October October 13, —
1709 Redstone 3 Creators 16299[h] April 9, 2019 14,
17, 2017 2020[i]
Update 2020

April 2018 April 30, November 12,

1803 Redstone 4 17134
Update 2018 2019
May 11,
October November 2021[j]
November 10,
1809 Redstone 5 2018 17763 13, January 9, 2029[m]
2020[l]
Update 2018[k]

May 2019 May 21,

1903 19H1 18362 December 8, 2020
Update 2019

November
November May 10,
1909 19H2 2019 18363 May 11, 2021
12, 2019 2022
Update

May 2020 May 27,

2004 20H1 19041 December 14, 2021 — —
Update 2020

October
October
20H2 20H2 2020 19042 May 10, 2022 May 9, 2023
20, 2020
Update

May 2021 May 18,

21H1 21H1 19043 December 13, 2022
Update 2021

November January
November June 11, January
21H2 21H2 2021 19044 June 13, 2023 13,
16, 2021 2024 12, 2027
Update 2032[n]

2022 October
22H2 22H2 19045 October 14, 2025 —
Update 18, 2022

Legend: Old version[o] Older version, still maintained[p] Latest version[q]

Notes: [show]
a. General Availability Channel, formerly Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) j. Version 1803 originally EOS by November 10, 2020, but postponed
and Current Branch (CB). due to COVID-19 pandemic.
b. Long-Term Servicing Channel, formerly Long-Term Servicing Branch k. Originally released on October 2, 2018, but was pushed back due
(LTSB). to bugs.
c. Mainstream support ended on October 13, 2020. l. Originally EOS by May 12, 2020, but postponed due to COVID-19
d. January 10, 2023 for Intel Clover Trail based systems. pandemic.

e. Mainstream support ended on October 12, 2021. m. Mainstream support ended on January 9, 2024.

f. April 11, 2017 for Education, Enterprise, and IoT Enterprise n. Mainstream support until January 12, 2027.
editions. o. Windows 10 builds that have this color have reached their
g. March 9, 2021 for Surface Hub devices. expiration dates and are no longer supported by Microsoft.

h. Windows 10 Mobile: 15254. p. Windows 10 builds that have this color are no longer the latest
version of Windows 10, but are still supported by Microsoft.
i. Originally EOS by April 14, 2020, but postponed due to COVID-19
pandemic. q. Windows 10 builds that have this color are the latest (by SKU)
public version of Windows 10.

Support lifecycle
Windows 10 was originally released following Microsoft's fixed lifecycle policy, receiving mainstream support for five years after its original release,

8 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

followed by five years of extended support. However, starting in February 2018 this was switched to the
modern lifecycle policy (excluding LTSC), with each build receiving 18 or 30 (only for H2 versions) months Support status summary
of support after release, depending on edition. Furthermore, Home edition does not support the deferral of Expiration date
feature updates and will thus often receive a new version of Windows 10 prior to the end of the 18-month Servicing/ October 14, 2025[213]
support period.[217][213] normal [214]

support
Microsoft's support lifecycle policy for the operating system notes that updates "are cumulative, with each
Extended October 10, 2028[18]
update built upon all of the updates that preceded it", that "a device needs to install the latest update to [19]
Security
remain supported", and that a device's ability to receive future updates will depend on hardware
Updates
compatibility, driver availability, and whether the device is within the OEM's "support period"—a new aspect
(ESU)
not accounted for in lifecycle policies for previous versions.[218][184][219][220] This policy was first invoked in
support
2017 to block Intel Clover Trail devices from receiving the Creators Update, as Microsoft asserts that future
Applicable Windows 10
updates "require additional hardware support to provide the best possible experience", and that Intel no
editions
longer provided support or drivers for the platform. Microsoft stated that these devices would no longer
Excluding LTSB/LTSC editions:
receive feature updates, but would still receive security updates through January 2023.[221]
Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations, S,
Microsoft will continue to support at least one standard Windows 10 release until October 14, 2025.[16][17] Education, Pro Education,
On April 27, 2023, Microsoft announced that version 22H2 would be the last of Windows 10, meaning this Enterprise, IoT Enterprise, Team.
version will extend beyond the normal 18/30 months of support.[222][223] [214]

Exceptions

Extended Security Updates Windows Unsupported as of

Microsoft announced an Extended Security Update (ESU) service in December 2023 for Windows 10 10 Mobile, January 14, 2020[215]
devices, lasting until October 2028, on an annual pricing plan. Unlike previous Windows ESU services, Mobile
Windows 10 ESU will be available to individual consumers as well.[224][18][19] Enterprise,
and IoT
Regarding pricing, annual pricing doubles each year. For businesses, per device, the pricing will be $61 for Mobile
the first year, $122 for the second, and $244 for the third. Businesses using a cloud based update management Windows Unsupported as of
solution such as Microsoft Intune will get a 25% discount. For education users, per device pricing is $1 for 10 IoT November 10,
the first year, then $2 and $4 for each subsequent year. Consumer pricing has yet to be announced.[225][226] Core (non- 2020[214]
LTSC)

Support and update branches Windows Mainstream support

10 ended on October 13,
The following table collects current status of the aforementioned updating and support of different branches
Enterprise 2020[214]
of Windows 10:[184][227][228][229][230]
and IoT Extended support
Enterprise until October 14,
2015 LTSB 2025[214]
Windows Mainstream support
10 ended on October 12,
Enterprise 2021[214]
and IoT Extended support
Enterprise until October 13,
2016 LTSB 2026[214]
Windows Mainstream support
10 ended January 9,
Enterprise, 2024[214]
IoT Extended support
Enterprise, until January 9,
and IoT 2029[214]
Core (via
IoT Core
Services)
[216] 2019

LTSC
Windows Supported until
10 January 12, 2027[214]
Enterprise
2021 LTSC
Windows Mainstream support
10 IoT until January 12,
Enterprise 2027[214]
2021 LTSC Extended support
until January 13,
2032[214]

9 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

Microsoft internal Windows Insider Long-term Servicing

Annual Channel
Update channels Preview Branch channel
(formerly CB and SAC)
branch (more information here) (WIPB) (formerly LTSB)
"End user"
Alpha software Beta software "Mission critical"

Home

Pro
Edition Enterprise LTSC
Education

Enterprise

Critical
updates
Security User can defer updates
Automatic
patches and indefinitely
stability
updates
Continuous Discontinued
Feature
upgrades
Non-critical Only through LTSC in-place
Automatic or defer[231]
functionality upgrades
and feature
updates

Continuous, deferrable
(excluding Home edition)
Feature for 12 months at a time;
LTSC releases are stable
upgrades Continuous Discontinued once a deferral period is
'snapshots' of AC
cadence past, no further deferrals
possible until latest
updates are installed

Continuous updating, Continuous updating or in- In-place upgrade support

Upgrade
features come and go Discontinued place upgrade to for the three most recent
support
silently with new builds supported LTSC builds LTSC builds

10 years (or ~6 months

from deferring build
Unsupported; Windows 10
upgrade or until future 5 years (for 2021, non-IoT)
no longer in Insider
Update Only the latest build is builds require hardware or 5 years mainstream + 5
program, Insider effort
support supported support the old device years extended (for 2019
shifted to Windows 11
does not have.) + 3 years and older, all IoT versions)
instead
paid extended security
updates (ESU)

Windows Update
Update
Windows Update Windows Update for Business
methods
Windows Server Update Services

Feature updates
Windows 10 is often described by Microsoft as being a "service", as it receives regular "feature updates" that contain new features and other updates and
fixes.[184][232][233][234] In April 2017, Microsoft stated that these updates would be released twice a year every March and September in the future, which
eventually continued until version 21H2.[235] Mainstream builds of Windows 10, up to 2004, were labeled "YYMM", with "YY" representing the two-
digit year and "MM" representing the month of release. For example, version 1809 was released in September (the ninth month) of 2018. This was
changed with the 20H2 release where "MM" represents the half of the year in which the update was released, for example H1 for the first half and H2 for
the second half.[236]

Before version 1903, the pace at which feature updates are received by devices was dependent on which release channel was used. The default branch for
all users of Windows 10 Home and Pro was "Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted)" (formerly "Current Branch", or "CB"),[234] which received stable builds
after they were publicly released by Microsoft. Each build of Windows 10 is supported for either 18 or 30 (only for H2 versions) months after its original
release, dependent on edition.[234] In enterprise environments, Microsoft officially intended that this branch was used for "targeted" deployments of
newly released stable versions so that they could be evaluated and tested on a limited number of devices before a wider deployment. Once a stable build
is certified by Microsoft and its partners as being suitable for broad deployment, the build is then released on the "Semi-Annual Channel" (formerly
"Current Branch for Business", or "CBB"), which is supported by the Pro and Enterprise editions of Windows 10.[234][202][237] Semi-Annual Channel
receives stable builds on a four-month delay from their release on the Targeted channel.[234] Administrators can also use the "Windows Update for
Business" system, as well as existing tools such as WSUS and System Center Configuration Manager, to organize structured deployments of feature
updates across their networks.[234][202]

The Windows Insider branches receive unstable builds as they are released; it is divided into two channels, "Dev" (which receives new builds
immediately after their release), and "Beta" (whose releases are slightly delayed from their "Dev" release).[234]

Enterprise licensees may use the Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC (formerly LTSB) edition, where "LTSC" stands for "Long-Term Servicing Channel",
which only receive quality of life updates (i.e. security patches), and has a full 5 or 10-year support lifecycle for each build.[234][237][230] This edition is
designed for "special-purpose devices" that perform a fixed function (such as automated teller machines and medical equipment). For this reason, it
excludes Cortana, Microsoft Store, and all bundled Universal Windows Platform apps (including but not limited to Microsoft Edge, hence these builds

10 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

ship only with Internet Explorer as browser).[238][239][234][184][240][241] Microsoft director Stella Chernyak explained that "we have businesses [that] may
have mission-critical environments where we respect the fact they want to test and stabilize the environment for a long time."[242] Four LTSC builds have
been released, correlating with the 1507, 1607, 1809, and 21H2 versions of Windows 10, respectively.[243][244][245]

In July 2017, Microsoft announced changes in the terminology for Windows branches as part of its effort to unify the update cadence with that of Office
365 ProPlus and Windows Server 2016.[246][234] The branch system now defines two paces of upgrade deployment in enterprise environments,
"targeted" initial deployment of a new version on selected systems immediately after its stable release for final testing, and "broad" deployment
afterwards. Hence, "Current Branch" is now known as "Semi-Annual Channel (Targeted)", and "Current Branch for Business" for broad deployment is
now referred to as "Semi-Annual Channel".[247][234]

In February 2019, Microsoft announced changes again in delivering updates beginning with release of version 1903: a single SAC will be released, SAC-
T will be retired, and users are no longer able to switch to different channels. Instead, these updates can be deferred from 30 to 90 days, or depending on
how the device was configured to defer the updates.[248][249] In April 2019, it was announced that, in addition, feature updates will no longer be
automatically pushed to users.[250] However, after the release of version 2004, the update only pushed for those running a feature update version that is
nearing end of service or it can be paused for up to 35 days.[251][252] In November 2021, following the launch of version 21H2, Microsoft made a
commitment to deliver feature updates every October or November.[253] Thus, Microsoft rebranded the "Semi-Annual Channel" to the "General
Availability Channel".[254][255] On April 27, 2023, Microsoft announced that version 22H2, released in November 2022, would be the last feature update
for Windows 10.[256]

Feature updates prior to version 1909 were distributed solely as an in-place upgrade installation, requiring the download of a complete operating system
package (approximately 3.5 GB in size for 64-bit systems). Unlike previous builds, version 1909 was designed primarily as an update rollup version of
1903, which focused primarily on minor feature additions and enhancements. For upgrades to 1909 from 1903, a new delivery method was used where
its changes were delivered as part of the monthly cumulative update, but were left in a dormant state until the 1909 update "enablement" patch is
installed. The full upgrade process was still used for those using builds prior to 1903.[257][258]

Features in development
In May 2017, Microsoft unveiled Fluent Design System (previously codenamed "Project Neon"), a revamp of Microsoft Design Language 2 that includes
guidelines for the designs and interactions used within software designed for all Windows 10 devices and platforms. The new design language will
include the more prominent use of motion, depth, and translucency effects. Microsoft stated that the implementation of this design language would be
performed over time, and it had already started to implement elements of it in the Creators Update and Fall Creators Update.[259]

On December 7, 2016, Microsoft announced that, as part of a partnership with Qualcomm, it planned to introduce support for running Win32 software
on ARM architecture with a 32-bit x86 processor emulator, in 2017. Terry Myerson stated that this move would enable the production of Qualcomm
Snapdragon-based Windows devices with cellular connectivity and improved power efficiency over Intel-compatible devices, and still capable of running
the majority of existing Windows software (unlike the previous Windows RT, which was restricted to Windows Store apps). Microsoft is initially
targeting this project towards laptops.[71] Microsoft launched the branding Always Connected PCs in December 2017 to market Windows 10 devices
with cellular connectivity, which included two ARM-based 2-in-1 laptops from Asus and HP featuring the Snapdragon 835 system-on-chip, and the
announcement of a partnership between AMD and Qualcomm to integrate its Snapdragon X16 gigabit LTE modem with AMD's Ryzen Mobile platform.
[260][261]

In August 2019, Microsoft began testing changes to its handling of the user interface on convertible devices—downplaying the existing "Tablet Mode"
option in favor of presenting the normal desktop with optimizations for touch when a keyboard is not present, such as increasing the space between
taskbar buttons and displaying the virtual keyboard when text fields are selected.[262]

In April 2021, the ability to run Linux applications using a graphical user interface, such as Audacity, directly in Windows, was introduced as a preview.
[263] This feature would later be included as part of the updated Windows Subsystem for Linux 2 for Windows 11 only.

In November 2022, Microsoft released Windows Subsystem For Linux 2 on the Microsoft Store, for both Windows 10 and 11,[264] allowing Linux
graphical user interface applications to be used natively using WSL.

System requirements
The basic hardware requirements to install Windows 10 were initially the same as those for Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, and only slightly higher than
for Windows 7 and Windows Vista. As of the May 2019 update, the minimum disk space requirement has been increased to 32 GB. In addition, on new
installations, Windows permanently reserves up to 7 GB of disk space in order to ensure proper installation of future feature updates.[266][267]

The 64-bit variants require a CPU that supports certain instructions.[268] Devices with low storage capacity must provide a USB flash drive or SD card
with sufficient storage for temporary files during upgrades.[269]

Some pre-built devices may be described as "certified" by Microsoft. Certified tablets must include Power , Volume up , and Volume down keys; ⊞ Win
and Rotation lock keys are no longer required.[270]

As with Windows 8, all certified devices must ship with UEFI Secure Boot enabled by default. Unlike Windows 8, OEMs are no longer required to make
Secure Boot settings user-configurable, meaning that devices may optionally be locked to run only Microsoft-signed operating systems.[271] A supported
infrared-illuminated camera is required for Windows Hello face authentication, and a supported fingerprint reader is required for Windows Hello
fingerprint authentication.[183] Device Guard requires a UEFI system with no third-party certificates loaded, and CPU virtualization extensions
(including SLAT and IOMMU) enabled in firmware.

Beginning with Intel Kaby Lake and AMD Bristol Ridge, Windows 10 is the only version of Windows that Microsoft will officially support on newer
CPU microarchitectures.[272][273] Terry Myerson stated that Microsoft did not want to make further investments in optimizing older versions of Windows

11 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

and associated software for newer generations of processors.[274] Hardware requirements for Windows 10[183][265]
[275] These policies were criticized by the media, who especially
Component Minimum Recommended
noted that Microsoft was refusing to support newer hardware
(particularly Intel's Skylake CPUs, which was also originally 1 GHz clock rate
targeted by the new policy with a premature end of support that IA-32 or x86-64 architecture with support for PAE, NX
was ultimately retracted)[276][277] on Windows 8.1, a version of Processor and SSE2
x86-64 CPUs must also support CMPXCHG16B,
Windows that was still in mainstream support until January 2018. PrefetchW and LAHF/SAHF instructions.
[278][279] In addition, an enthusiast-created modification was

released that disabled the check and allowed Windows 8.1 and Memory IA-32 edition: 1 GB
4 GB
(RAM) x86-64 edition: 2 GB
earlier versions to continue to work on the platform.[280]
DirectX 9 graphics
Windows 10 versions 1703 and later do not support Intel Clover Graphics device
WDDM 1.3 or higher driver
Trail system-on-chips, per Microsoft's stated policy of only card WDDM 1.0 or higher
providing updates for devices during their OEM support period. driver
[221][281]
Display 800×600 pixels —

Starting with Windows 10 version 2004, Microsoft will require Input device Keyboard and mouse Multi-touch display
new OEM devices to use 64-bit processors, and will therefore
Storage
cease the distribution of x86 (32-bit) variants of Windows 10 via 32 GB —
space
OEM channels. The 32-bit variants of Windows 10 will remain
available via non-OEM channels, and Microsoft will continue to Additional requirements for optional functionality[183]
"[provide] feature and security updates on these devices".[282] Feature Requirements
This was later followed by Windows 11 dropping support for 32-
bit hardware altogether, thus making Windows 10 the final Biometric
Fingerprint reader
authentication
version of Windows to have a 32-bit version available.[283]
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 or 2.0, a
BitLocker
dedicated USB flash drive, or a password
Physical memory limits
Device encryption Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and InstantGo
The maximum amount of RAM that Windows 10 can support
varies depending on the product edition and the processor Hyper-V Second Level Address Translation (SLAT)
architecture. All 32-bit editions of Windows 10, including Home Wi-Fi adapter that supports Wi-Fi Direct, NDIS
and Pro, support up to 4 GB.[284] 64-bit editions of Windows 10 Miracast
6.30, WDDM 1.3 (Ivy Bridge)
Education and Pro support up to 2 TB, 64-bit editions of
Hardware equivalent of Ctrl + Alt + Delete or
Windows 10 Pro for Workstations and Enterprise support up to 6 Secure attention
⊞ Win + Power key sequence
TB, while the 64-bit edition of Windows 10 Home is limited to
128 GB.[284] UEFI v2.3.1 Errata B with Microsoft Windows
Secure Boot
certification authority in its database

Speech recognition Microphone

Processor limits
Windows 10 supports up to two physical processors.[285] A Windows Hello Illuminated infrared camera
maximum of 32 cores is supported in 32-bit versions of Windows
10, whereas up to 256 cores are supported in the 64-bit versions.[285]

Reception
Windows 10 received generally positive reviews, with most reviewers considering it superior to its predecessor Windows 8.[286][287][288] CNN Business
praised every aspect of Windows 10.[289] TechRadar felt that it could be "the new Windows 7", citing the operating system's more familiar user interface,
improvements to bundled apps, performance improvements, a "rock solid" search system, and the Settings app being more full-featured than its
equivalents on 8 and 8.1. The Edge browser was praised for its performance, although it was not in a feature-complete state at launch. While considering
them a "great idea in principle", concerns were shown for Microsoft's focus on the universal app ecosystem:

It's by no means certain that developers are going to flock to Windows 10 from iOS and Android simply because they can convert their apps
easily. It may well become a no-brainer for them, but at the moment a conscious decision is still required.[290]

Engadget was similarly positive, noting that the upgrade process was painless and that Windows 10's user interface had balanced aspects of Windows 8
with those of previous versions with a more mature aesthetic. Cortana's always-on voice detection was considered to be its "true strength", also citing its
query capabilities and personalization features, but noting that it was not as pre-emptive as Google Now. Windows 10's stock applications were praised
for being improved over their Windows 8 counterparts, and for supporting windowed modes. The Xbox app was also praised for its Xbox One streaming
functionality, although recommending its use over a wired network because of inconsistent quality over Wi-Fi. In conclusion, it was argued that
"Windows 10 delivers the most refined desktop experience ever from Microsoft, and yet it's so much more than that. It's also a decent tablet OS, and it's
ready for a world filled with hybrid devices. And, barring another baffling screwup, it looks like a significant step forward for mobile. Heck, it makes the
Xbox One a more useful machine."[291]

On the other hand Ars Technica panned the new Tablet mode interface for removing the charms and app switching, making the Start button harder to use
by requiring users to reach for the button on the bottom-left rather than at the center of the screen when swiping with a thumb, and for making
application switching less instantaneous through the use of Task View. Microsoft Edge was praised for being "tremendously promising", and "a much
better browser than Internet Explorer ever was", but criticized it for its lack of functionality on-launch. In conclusion, contrasting Windows 8 as being a
"reliable" platform albeit consisting of unfinished concepts, Windows 10 was considered "the best Windows yet", and was praised for having a better
overall concept in its ability to be "comfortable and effective" across a wide array of form factors, but that it was buggier than previous versions of

12 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

Windows were on-launch.[292]

ExtremeTech felt that Windows 10 restricted the choices of users, citing its more opaque setting menus, forcing users to give up bandwidth for the peer-
to-peer distribution of updates, and for taking away user control of specific functions, such as updates, explaining that "it feels, once again, as if
Microsoft has taken the seed of a good idea, like providing users with security updates automatically, and shoved the throttle to maximum."[293]
Windows 10 has also received criticism because of deleting files without user permission after auto updates.[294]

Critics characterized the release of Windows 10 as being forced onto users of past versions of Windows.[23] Critics have also noted that Windows 10
heavily emphasizes freemium services, and contains various advertising facilities. Some outlets have considered these to be a hidden "cost" of the free
upgrade offer.[295][296][297] Examples of these have included microtransactions in bundled games such as Microsoft Solitaire Collection,[298][295][299]
[300] default settings that display promotions of "suggested" apps in the Start menu, "tips" on the lock screen that may contain advertising,[296][297] ads

displayed in File Explorer for Office 365 subscriptions on Creators' Update,[297] and various advertising notifications displayed by default which promote
Microsoft Edge when it is not set as the default web browser (including, in a September 2018 build, nag pop-ups displayed to interrupt the installation
process of competitors).[301][302]

Due to the high system requirements of its successor Windows 11, some critics have cited Windows 10 being better than its successor and have warned
not to switch to Windows 11 given its high system requirements, despite very limited new features compared to Windows 10 at the time of release.[303]
[304][305]

Market share and sales

Up to August 2016, Windows 10 usage was increasing, with it then plateauing,
[307] while eventually in 2018, it became more popular than Windows 7[308][309]
Windows PC market share (of Windows) statistics
Windows 10 67.23%
(though Windows 7 was still more used in some countries in Asia and Africa in
Windows 11 28.18%
2019). As of March 2020, the operating system is running on over a billion Windows 7 3.1%
devices, reaching the goal set by Microsoft two years after the initial deadline. Windows 8.1 0.66%
[24] Windows XP 0.52%
Windows 8 0.22%
Twenty-four hours after it was released, Microsoft announced that over Other 0.09%
14 million devices were running Windows 10.[310] On August 26, Microsoft said
Worldwide market share of desktop Windows versions (as
over 75 million devices were running Windows 10, in 192 countries, and on over
of February 29, 2024) according to Statcounter.[306] Note:
90,000 unique PC or tablet models.[311] According to Terry Myerson, there were the values shown are percentages of Windows
over 110 million devices running Windows 10 as of October 6, 2015.[312] On marketshare only; StatCounter tracks Windows vs. other
January 4, 2016, Microsoft reported that Windows 10 had been activated on over operating systems separately.
200 million devices since the operating system's launch in July 2015.[313][314]

According to StatCounter, Windows 10 overtook Windows 8.1 in December 2015.[315][316] Iceland was the first country where Windows 10 was ranked
first (not only on the desktop, but across all platforms),[317] with several larger European countries following. For one week in late November 2016,
Windows 10 overtook first rank from Windows 7 in the United States, before losing it again.[318] By February 2017, Windows 10 was losing market
share to Windows 7.[319]

In mid-January 2018, Windows 10 had a slightly higher global market share than Windows 7,[308] with it noticeably more popular on weekends,[320]
while popularity varies widely by region, e.g. Windows 10 was then still behind in Africa[321] and far ahead in some other regions e.g. Oceania.[322]

Update system changes

Windows 10 Home is permanently set to download all updates automatically, including cumulative updates, security patches, and drivers, and users
cannot individually select updates to install or not.[323] Tom Warren of The Verge felt that, given web browsers such as Google Chrome had already
adopted such an automatic update system, such a requirement would help to keep all Windows 10 devices secure, and felt that "if you're used to family
members calling you for technical support because they've failed to upgrade to the latest Windows service pack or some malware disabled Windows
Update then those days will hopefully be over."[324]

Concerns were raised that because of these changes, users would be unable to skip the automatic installation of updates that are faulty or cause issues
with certain system configurations—although build upgrades will also be subject to public beta testing via Windows Insider program.[325][324] There
were also concerns that the forced installation of driver updates through Windows Update, where they were previously designated as "optional", could
cause conflicts with drivers that were installed independently of Windows Update.

Criticism was also directed towards Microsoft's decision to no longer provide specific details on the contents of cumulative updates for Windows 10.[326]
On February 9, 2016, Microsoft retracted this decision and began to provide release notes for cumulative updates on the Windows website.[327]

Some users reported that during the installation of the November upgrade, some applications (particularly utility programs such as CPU-Z and Speccy)
were automatically uninstalled during the upgrade process, and some default programs were reset to Microsoft-specified defaults (such as Photos app,
and Microsoft Edge for PDF viewing), both without warning.[328][329]

Further issues were discovered upon the launch of the Anniversary Update ("Redstone"), including a bug that caused some devices to freeze (but
addressed by cumulative update KB3176938, released on August 31, 2016),[330][331] and that fundamental changes to how Windows handles webcams
had caused many to stop working.[332]

In June 2017, a Redstone 3 Insider build (RS_EDGE_CASE in PC and rs_IoT on Mobile) was accidentally released to both Insider and non-Insider users
on all Windows 10 devices, but the update was retracted, with Microsoft apologizing and releasing a note on their Windows Insider Program blog

13 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

describing how to prevent the build from being installed on their device.[333] According to Dona Sarkar, this was due to "an inadvertent deployment to
the engineering system that controls which builds/which rings to push out to insiders."[334]

A Gartner analyst felt that Windows 10 Pro was becoming increasingly inappropriate for use in enterprise environments because of support policy
changes by Microsoft, including consumer-oriented upgrade lifecycle length, and only offering extended support for individual builds to Enterprise and
Education editions of Windows 10.[335]

Critics have acknowledged that Microsoft's update and testing practices had been affecting the overall quality of Windows 10. In particular, it was
pointed out that Microsoft's internal testing departments had been prominently affected by a major round of layoffs undertaken by the company in 2014.
Microsoft relies primarily on user testing and bug reports via the Windows Insider program (which may not always be of sufficient quality to identify a
bug), as well as correspondence with OEMs and other stakeholders. In the wake of the known folder redirection data loss bug in the version 1809, it was
pointed out that bug reports describing the issue had been present on the Feedback Hub app for several months prior to the public release. Following the
incident, Microsoft updated Feedback Hub so that users may specify the severity of a particular bug report. When announcing the resumption of 1809's
rollout, Microsoft stated that it planned to be more transparent in its handling of update quality in the future, through a series of blog posts that will
detail its testing process and the planned development of a "dashboard" that will indicate the rollout progress of future updates.[336][337][338][339][340]

Distribution practices
Microsoft was criticized for the tactics that it used to promote its free upgrade campaign for Windows 10, including adware-like behaviors,[341] using
dark patterns to coax users into installing the operating system,[342][343][344][345] downloading installation files without user consent,[346][341] and
making it difficult for users to suppress the advertising and notifications if they did not wish to upgrade to Windows 10.[346][341][347] The upgrade offer
was marketed and initiated using the "Get Windows 10" (GWX) application, which was first downloaded and installed via Windows Update in March
2015.[342][345] Third-party programs were created to assist users in applying measures to disable GWX.[348]

In September 2015, it was reported that Microsoft was triggering automatic downloads of Windows 10 installation files on all compatible Windows 7 or
8.1 systems configured to automatically download and install updates, regardless of whether or not they had specifically requested the upgrade. Microsoft
officially confirmed the change, claiming it was "an industry practice that reduces the time for installation and ensures device readiness." This move was
criticized by users with data caps or devices with low storage capacity, as resources were consumed by the automatic downloads of up to 6 GB of data.
Other critics argued that Microsoft should not have triggered any downloading of Windows 10 installation files without user consent.[341][346][349]

In October 2015, Windows 10 began to appear as an "Optional" update on the Windows Update interface, but pre-selected for installation on some
systems. A Microsoft spokesperson said that this was a mistake, and that the download would no longer be pre-selected by default.[344] However, on
October 29, 2015, Microsoft announced that it planned to classify Windows 10 as a "recommended" update in the Windows Update interface sometime
in 2016, which would cause an automatic download of installation files and a one-time prompt with a choice to install to appear.[350][351] In December
2015, it was reported that a new advertising dialog had begun to appear, only containing "Upgrade now" and "Upgrade tonight" buttons, and no obvious
method to decline installation besides the close button.[343]

In March 2016, some users also alleged that their Windows 7 and 8.1 devices had automatically begun upgrading to Windows 10 without their consent.
[352] In June 2016, the GWX dialog's behavior changed to make closing the window imply a consent to a scheduled upgrade.[353][354] In December 2016,

Microsoft's chief marketing officer Chris Capossela admitted that the company had "gone too far" by using these tactics, stating "we know we want
people to be running Windows 10 from a security perspective, but finding the right balance where you're not stepping over the line of being too
aggressive is something we tried and for a lot of the year I think we got it right."[355]

On January 21, 2016, Microsoft was sued in small claims court by a user whose computer had attempted to upgrade to Windows 10 without her consent
shortly after the release of the operating system. The upgrade failed, and her computer was left in a broken state thereafter, which disrupted the ability to
run her travel agency. The court ruled in favor of the user and awarded her $10,000 in damages, but Microsoft appealed. However, in May 2016,
Microsoft dropped the appeal and chose to pay the damages. Shortly after the suit was reported on by the Seattle Times, Microsoft confirmed it was
updating the GWX software once again to add more explicit options for opting out of a free Windows 10 upgrade;[356][357][354] the final notification was
a full-screen pop-up window notifying users of the impending end of the free upgrade offer, and contained "Remind me later", "Do not notify me again"
and "Notify me three more times" as options.[358]

In March 2019, Microsoft announced that it would display notifications informing users on Windows 7 devices of the upcoming end of extended support
for the platform, and direct users to a website urging them to upgrade to Windows 10 or purchase new hardware. This dialog will be similar to the
previous Windows 10 upgrade prompts, but will not explicitly mention Windows 10.[359]

Privacy and data collection

Privacy advocates and other critics have expressed concern regarding Windows 10's privacy policies and its collection and use of customer data.[360]
Under the default "Express" settings, Windows 10 is configured to send various information to Microsoft and other parties, including the collection of
user contacts, calendar data, and "associated input data" to personalize "speech, typing, and inking input", typing and inking data to improve recognition,
allowing apps to use a unique "advertising ID" for analytics and advertising personalization (functionality introduced by Windows 8.1)[361] and allow
apps to request the user's location data and send this data to Microsoft and "trusted partners" to improve location detection (Windows 8 had similar
settings, except that location data collection did not include "trusted partners"[293]). Users can opt out from most of this data collection,[293][360] but
telemetry data for error reporting and usage is also sent to Microsoft, and this cannot be disabled on non-Enterprise editions of Windows 10.[293]
Microsoft's privacy policy states, however, that "Basic"-level telemetry data is anonymized and cannot be used to identify an individual user or device.
[362] The use of Cortana also requires the collection of data "such as Your PC location, data from your calendar, the apps you use, data from your emails

and text messages, who you call, your contacts and how often you interact with them on Your PC" to personalize its functionality.[360][363]

Rock Paper Shotgun writer Alec Meer argued that Microsoft's intent for this data collection lacked transparency, stating that "there is no world in which
45 pages of policy documents and opt-out settings split across 13 different settings screens and an external website constitutes 'real transparency'."[360]

14 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

Joel Hruska of ExtremeTech wrote that "the company that brought us the 'Scroogled' campaign now hoovers up your data in ways that would make
Google jealous."[293] However, it was also pointed out that the requirement for such vast usage of customer data had become a norm, citing the increased
reliance on cloud computing and other forms of external processing, as well as similar data collection requirements for services on mobile devices such
as Google Now and Siri.[360][363] In August 2015, Russian politician Nikolai Levichev called for Windows 10 to be banned from use within the Russian
government, as it sends user data to servers in the United States. The Russian government had passed a federal law requiring all online services to store
the data of Russian users on servers within the country by September 2016 or be blocked.[364][365] Writing for ZDNet, Ed Bott said that the lack of
complaints by businesses about privacy in Windows 10 indicated "how utterly normal those privacy terms are in 2015."[366] In a Computerworld
editorial, Preston Gralla said that "the kind of information Windows 10 gathers is no different from what other operating systems gather. But Microsoft is
held to a different standard than other companies".[367]

The Microsoft Services agreement reads that the company's online services may automatically "download software updates or configuration changes,
including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices." Critics
interpreted this statement as implying that Microsoft would scan for and delete unlicensed software installed on devices running Windows 10.[368]
However, others pointed out that this agreement was specifically for Microsoft online services such as Microsoft account, Office 365, Skype, as well as
Xbox Live, and that the offending passage most likely referred to digital rights management on Xbox consoles and first-party games, and not plans to
police pirated video games installed on Windows 10 PCs.[368][369] Despite this, some torrent trackers announced plans to block Windows 10 users, also
arguing that the operating system could send information to anti-piracy groups that are affiliated with Microsoft.[370] Writing about these allegations, Ed
Bott of ZDNet compared Microsoft's privacy policy to Apple's and Google's and concluded that he "[did not] see anything that looks remotely like Big
Brother."[366] Columnist Kim Komando argued that "Microsoft might in the future run scans and disable software or hardware it sees as a security
threat", consistent with the Windows 10 update policy.[371]

In September 2019, Microsoft hid the option to create a local account during a fresh installation if a PC is connected to the internet. This move was
criticized by users who did not want to use an online Microsoft account.[372][373] Additionally, in Windows 10 Home, the first Microsoft account linked
to the primary user's account can no longer be unlinked, but other users can unlink their own Microsoft accounts from their user accounts.

In late-July 2020, Windows Defender began to classify modifications of the hosts file that block Microsoft telemetry servers as being a severe security
risk.[374]

See also
Business and
economics
portal

▪ Comparison of operating systems

▪ History of operating systems
▪ List of operating systems
▪ Microsoft Windows version history
▪ List of Microsoft Windows versions

References
1. "Programming language tools: Windows gets versatile 9. "Microsoft Volume Licensing Center" (https://www.micro
new open-source terminal" (https://www.zdnet.com/artic soft.com/Licensing/servicecenter/default.aspx).
le/programming-language-tools-windows-gets-versatile- Microsoft.
new-open-source-terminal/). ZDNet. Retrieved 10. saraclay. "SoCs and Custom Boards for Windows 10 IoT
August 31, 2020. Core - Windows IoT" (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/w
2. "Microsoft is open-sourcing Windows Calculator on indows/iot-core/learn-about-hardware/socsandcustombo
GitHub" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-is-ope ards). Microsoft Learn. Retrieved June 13, 2019.
n-sourcing-windows-calculator-on-github/). ZDNet. 11. ".NET Core 3.0 - Supported OS versions" (https://githu
Retrieved August 31, 2020. b.com/dotnet/core/blob/master/release-notes/3.0/3.0-su
3. "GitHub - microsoft/Windows-Driver-Frameworks" (http pported-os.md). .NET Foundation. June 5, 2019.
s://github.com/Microsoft/Windows-Driver-Frameworks). Retrieved June 13, 2019.
Microsoft. Retrieved August 31, 2020. 12. Thurrottfeed (November 16, 2018). "Microsoft Opens Its
4. "windows forms" (https://github.com/dotnet/winforms). Store to 64-Bit ARM Apps" (https://www.thurrott.com/win
Microsoft. Retrieved August 31, 2020. dows/windows-10/192221/microsoft-opens-its-store-to-6
5. "May 29, 2024—KB5037849 (OS Build 19045.4474) 4-bit-arm-apps). Thurrott.com. Retrieved June 13, 2019.
Preview" (https://support.microsoft.com/help/5037849). 13. "HP, Asus announce first Windows 10 ARM PCs: 20 hour
Microsoft Support. Microsoft. battery life, gigabit LTE" (https://arstechnica.com/gadget
6. "Releasing Windows 10 Build 19045.4472 to Release s/2017/12/hp-asus-announce-first-windows-10-arm-pc
Preview Channel" (https://blogs.windows.com/windows-i s-20-hour-battery-life-gigabit-lte/). Ars Technica. Condé
nsider/2024/05/20/releasing-windows-10-build-19045-44 Nast. December 5, 2017.
72-to-release-preview-channel). Windows Insider Blog. 14. "2017-10 Cumulative Update for Windows 10 Version
May 20, 2024. 1709 for ARM64-based Systems (KB4043961)" (https://
7. "May 29, 2024—KB5037849 (OS Build 19045.4474) web.archive.org/web/20171023060310/https://www.cata
Preview" (https://support.microsoft.com/help/5037849). log.update.microsoft.com/ScopedViewInline.aspx?updat
Microsoft Support. Microsoft. eid=14020894-b1fd-4964-b4de-96816eaad2da).
8. "Local Experience Packs - Microsoft Store" (https://ww Microsoft Update Catalog. Microsoft. October 16, 2017.
w.microsoft.com/en-us/store/collections/localexperience Archived from the original (https://www.catalog.updat
packs?cat0=devices&rtc=1). Microsoft. e.microsoft.com/ScopedViewInline.aspx?updateid=1402
0894-b1fd-4964-b4de-96816eaad2da) on October 23,
2017.

15 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

15. "Windows 10" (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcen 31. Patel, Nilay (July 14, 2011). "Microsoft says it will have a
ter/evaluate-windows-10-enterprise). Windows 'single ecosystem' for PCs, tablets, phones, and TVs…
Evaluations. Microsoft. Retrieved November 27, 2015. and is 'Windows' dead?" (https://www.theverge.com/201
16. "Windows 10 Home and Pro Lifecycle" (https://docs.micr 1/07/14/microsoft-one-ecosystem-pcs-tablets-phones-tv
osoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/windows-10-home-an s-windows-brand-over). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved
d-pro). Microsoft Learn. Retrieved June 27, 2021. May 26, 2015.
17. "Windows 10 Enterprise and Education Lifecycle" (http 32. Foley, Mary Jo (December 2, 2013). "Microsoft
s://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/products/window codename 'Threshold': The next major Windows wave
s-10-enterprise-and-education). Microsoft Learn. takes shape" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-c
Retrieved June 27, 2021. odename-threshold-the-next-major-windows-wave-take
s-shape/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive. Retrieved April 22,
18. Bott, Ed (December 5, 2023). "Microsoft will offer
extended support options for Windows 10 PCs, for a 2019.
price" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-offers-ex 33. Chacos, Brad (February 8, 2013). "Is 'Windows Blue' a
tended-support-options-for-windows-10-pcs-for-a-price/). set of coordinated updates for all Microsoft products?"
ZDNet. Retrieved January 7, 2024. "a paying customer (http://www.pcworld.com/article/2027618/is-windows-bl
can extend the life of a Windows 10 PC from the official ue-a-set-of-coordinated-updates-for-all-microsoft-produc
end-of-support date of October 14, 2025, until October ts-.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved April 7, 2015.
10, 2028" 34. Warren, Tom (July 21, 2014). "Leaked 'Windows 9'
19. "Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows screenshots offer a closer look at the new Start Menu"
10" (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-n (https://www.theverge.com/2014/7/21/5924013/window
ew/extended-security-updates). Microsoft Learn. s-9-screenshots-start-menu). The Verge. Vox Media.
December 5, 2023. Retrieved January 7, 2024. Retrieved September 30, 2014.
20. "Hello World: Windows 10 Available on July 29" (http://bl 35. Chacos, Brad (April 2, 2014). "Rejoice! The Start menu is
ogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2015/06/01/hello- coming back to Windows" (https://www.pcworld.com/arti
world-windows-10-available-on-july-29/). windows.com. cle/2138443/rejoice-the-start-menu-is-coming-back-to-w
June 1, 2015. Retrieved June 1, 2015. indows.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
21. Bott, Ed. "Microsoft's big Windows 10 goal: one billion or 36. Cunningham, Andrew (April 2, 2014). "Future Windows
bust" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsofts-big-win 8.1 update will finally bring back the Start menu" (http
dows-10-goal-one-billion-or-bust/). ZDNet. CBS s://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2014/04/future-window
Interactive. Retrieved May 14, 2019. s-8-1-update-will-finally-bring-back-the-start-menu/). Ars
Technica. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
22. Bott, Ed (July 22, 2016). "Is the Windows 10 Long-Term
Servicing Branch right for you?" (http://www.techprorese 37. Anthony, Sebastian (March 29, 2015). "Don't call them
arch.com/article/is-the-windows-10-long-term-servicing- Metro: Microsoft rebrands Universal apps as "Windows
branch-right-for-you/). TechProResearch. Retrieved apps" " (https://arstechnica.com/information-technolog
September 10, 2017. y/2015/03/dont-call-them-metro-microsoft-rebrands-univ
ersal-apps-as-windows-apps/). Ars Technica. Condé
23. Chacos, Brad (May 22, 2016). "How Microsoft's tricky
new Windows 10 pop-up deceives you into upgrading" Nast. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
(https://www.pcworld.com/article/3073457/how-microsof 38. Chacos, Brad (April 2, 2014). "Microsoft's universal
ts-nasty-new-windows-10-pop-up-tricks-you-into-upgradi Windows apps run on tablets, phones, Xbox, and PCs" (h
ng.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved May 14, 2019. ttps://www.pcworld.com/article/2138625/microsoft-intro
duces-universal-apps-that-scale-across-phones-tablets-a
24. "Microsoft hits its goal of 1 billion devices running
Windows 10" (https://www.theverge.com/2020/3/16/211 nd-pcs.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
16762/microsoft-windows-10-active-devices-billion-7-su 39. Wigley, Andy (July 18, 2014). "Universal Apps: What are
pport). March 16, 2020. they and how are they good for developers?" (https://we
b.archive.org/web/20160203211341/http://www.microso
25. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide" (htt
ps://gs.statcounter.com/windows-version-market-share/d ft.com/en-gb/developers/articles/week03jul14/universal-
esktop/worldwide/#monthly-201701-202307). apps-what-are-they-and-how-are-they-good-for-develop
ers/). Microsoft. Archived from the original (https://ww
StatCounter Global Stats. Retrieved August 2, 2023.
w.microsoft.com/en-gb/developers/articles/week03jul14/
26. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide" (htt universal-apps-what-are-they-and-how-are-they-good-fo
ps://gs.statcounter.com/windows-version-market-share/d r-developers) on February 3, 2016. Retrieved March 31,
esktop/worldwide/#monthly-202109-202307). 2015.
StatCounter Global Stats. Retrieved August 2, 2023.
40. Warren, Tom (September 11, 2014). "Leaked Windows 9
27. "Operating System Market Share Worldwide" (https://g screenshots reveal the future of the desktop" (https://w
s.statcounter.com/os-market-share#monthly-201801-20 ww.theverge.com/2014/9/11/6135079/windows-9-leak-t
2307). StatCounter Global Stats. Retrieved August 2, echnical-preview). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved
2023. September 30, 2014.
28. "Upgrade to the New Windows 11 OS | Microsoft" (http 41. Oremus, Will (September 30, 2014). "Windows 8 Was So
s://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11). Bad That Microsoft Is Skipping Windows 9" (http://www.s
Windows. Retrieved July 30, 2021. late.com/blogs/future_tense/2014/09/30/microsoft_wind
29. "Windows 11 Requirements - What's new in Windows" (h ows_10_operating_system_windows_8_was_so_bad_it_s_
ttps://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/win skipping.html). Slate. The Slate Group.
dows-11-requirements). Docs. Microsoft. January 6, 42. Dudley, Brier. "Microsoft reveals Windows 10" (https://w
2022. Retrieved May 2, 2022. eb.archive.org/web/20140930232105/http://blogs.seattl
30. Silverman, Dwight (July 15, 2011). "Microsoft envisions a etimes.com/brierdudley/2014/09/29/microsoft-previews-
universal OS, but it might not be called Windows" (http windows-9/). Seattle Times. Seattle Times Network.
s://blog.chron.com/techblog/2011/07/microsoft-envision Archived from the original (http://blogs.seattletimes.co
s-a-universal-os-but-it-might-not-be-called-windows). m/brierdudley/2014/09/29/microsoft-previews-window
Houston Chronicle. Hearst Corporation. Archived (http s-9/) on September 30, 2014. Retrieved November 5,
s://web.archive.org/web/20110722084053/https://blog.c 2015.
hron.com/techblog/2011/07/microsoft-envisions-a-univer 43. Lendino, Jamie (February 2, 2015). "Why is it called
sal-os-but-it-might-not-be-called-windows) from the Windows 10 not Windows 9?" (http://www.extremetech.c
original on July 22, 2011. Retrieved May 14, 2019. om/computing/191279-why-is-it-called-windows-10-not-
windows-9). ExtremeTech. Ziff Davis.

16 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

44. Warren, Tom (September 30, 2014). "Windows 10 is the 58. "Windows 10 Takes Its Place as Microsoft's 'Forever OS' "
official name for Microsoft's next version of Windows" (h (https://redmondmag.com/blogs/scott-bekker/2019/01/w
ttps://www.theverge.com/2014/9/30/6868695/microsoft- indows-10-microsofts-forever-os.aspx).
windows-10-announced-official). The Verge. Vox Media. Redmondmag.com. Archived (https://web.archive.org/w
45. "Watch how Windows 10 works with touch interfaces" (h eb/20210409165315/https://redmondmag.com/blogs/sc
ttps://www.theverge.com/2014/9/30/6873963/window ott-bekker/2019/01/windows-10-microsofts-forever-os.as
s-10-continuum-touch-interface). The Verge. Vox Media. px) from the original on April 9, 2021. Retrieved June 16,
September 30, 2014. Retrieved September 30, 2014. 2021.
46. Anthony, Sebastian (September 30, 2014). "Microsoft's 59. Keizer, Gregg (July 13, 2021). "Say goodbye to all that:
Windows 10 event in San Francisco: Updated live blog" Microsoft ends Windows-as-a-Service" (https://www.com
(https://www.extremetech.com/computing/191135-wind puterworld.com/article/3624741/say-goodbye-to-all-tha
ows-9-event-san-francisco-live-blog). ExtremeTech. t-microsoft-ends-windows-as-a-service.html).
Retrieved May 14, 2019. Computerworld. Retrieved July 25, 2021.
47. Rushe, Dominic (September 30, 2014). "Microsoft 60. Warren, Tom (June 14, 2021). "Microsoft to end Windows
unveils Windows 10: 'It wouldn't be right to call it 10 support on October 14th, 2025" (https://www.theverg
Windows 9' " (https://www.theguardian.com/technolog e.com/2021/6/14/22533018/microsoft-windows-10-end-s
y/2014/sep/30/microsoft-windows-10-release). The upport-date). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved July 17,
Guardian. 2021.
48. Rigby, Bill (September 30, 2014). "Microsoft names next 61. "Microsoft kicks off Windows 10 ad campaign" (https://w
operating system 'Windows 10' " (https://www.reuters.co ww.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-kicks-off-windows-10-ad-
m/article/microsoft-windows-idUSL2N0RV1RF20140930). campaign/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive. Retrieved July 23,
Reuters. Thomson Reuters. 2015.
49. Bort, Julie (October 13, 2014). "Microsoft's New Windows 62. "Microsoft Strikes New Tone for Windows 10 Release" (ht
Marketing Boss Explains What Happened to Windows 9" tp://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/07/13/microsoft-strike
(https://www.businessinsider.com/this-is-what-happene s-new-tone-for-windows-10-release/?_r=0). The New
d-to-windows-9-2014-10). Business Insider. Retrieved York Times. July 13, 2015. Retrieved July 23, 2015.
May 14, 2019. 63. Keizer, Gregg (July 13, 2015). "Microsoft to kick off
50. "Microsoft announces 84-inch Surface Hub tailored for Windows 10 ad campaign next week" (https://www.com
Windows 10" (https://www.theverge.com/2015/1/21/786 puterworld.com/article/2947479/microsoft-to-kick-off-wi
7585/microsoft-surface-hub-announced). The Verge. Vox ndows-10-ad-campaign-next-week.html).
Media. January 21, 2015. Retrieved January 24, 2015. Computerworld. IDG. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
51. "Windows 10: Cortana, a New Browser…and 64. Andronico, Michael (September 30, 2014). "Microsoft
Holograms?" (https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2 Unveils Windows 10 with New Start Menu" (https://ww
475515,00.asp). PC Magazine. Ziff Davis Media. w.tomsguide.com/us/windows-10-unveiled,news-1964
Retrieved January 24, 2015. 8.html). Tom's Guide. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
52. Walton, Mark (May 15, 2015). "Humanity weeps as 65. Warren, Tom (January 21, 2015). "This is Windows 10 for
Candy Crush Saga comes preinstalled with Windows 10" phones" (https://www.theverge.com/2015/1/21/786944
(https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2015/05/humanity-wee 1/windows-10-for-phones-features-hands-on). The
ps-as-candy-crush-saga-comes-pre-installed-with-windo Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
ws-10/). Ars Technica. Conde Nast. Retrieved May 14, 66. "Guide to Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps" (http
2019. s://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn894631.aspx?f=
53. Hachman, Mark (August 6, 2015). "Microsoft releases 255&MSPPError=-2147217396). MSDN. Microsoft.
iOS-to-Windows app maker Windows Bridge to open Retrieved August 12, 2015.
source" (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2960526/micr 67. Warren, Tom (March 26, 2015). "Microsoft's universal
osoft-releases-ios-to-windows-app-maker-windows-bridg apps are now called Windows apps" (https://www.thever
e-to-open-source.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved ge.com/2015/3/26/8295177/microsoft-windows-apps-uni
May 14, 2019. versal-apps). Retrieved April 3, 2015.
54. Chester, Brandon (April 29, 2015). "Microsoft 68. "Windows Store rebranded to Microsoft Store in
Demonstrates [sic] Android and iOS Applications Windows 10" (https://www.theverge.com/2017/9/22/163
Running on Windows 10" (https://www.anandtech.com/s 48986/microsoft-store-windows-10-app-store). The
how/9205/microsoft-demonstrates-android-and-ios-appli Verge. Retrieved May 16, 2018.
cations-running-on-windows-10). Anandtech. Purch Inc. 69. Kevin, Gallo (March 2, 2015). "A first look at the
Retrieved May 14, 2019. Windows 10 universal app platform" (http://blogs.windo
55. Protalinski, Emil (May 1, 2015). "Everything you need to ws.com/buildingapps/2015/03/02/a-first-look-at-the-wind
know about porting Android and iOS apps to Windows ows-10-universal-app-platform/). Windows Blog.
10" (https://venturebeat.com/2015/05/01/everything-yo Microsoft. Retrieved March 9, 2015.
u-need-to-know-about-porting-android-and-ios-apps-to- 70. "Our first look at Windows 10 on phones, and Universal
windows-10/). VentureBeat. Retrieved May 14, 2019. Apps for touchscreens" (https://arstechnica.com/gadget
56. Loeb, Larry (July 28, 2015). "Windows 10: Microsoft s/2015/01/our-first-look-at-windows-10-on-phones-and-u
Attempts A SaaS Model" (https://www.informationweek.c niversal-apps-for-touchscreens/). Ars Technica. January
om/software/operating-systems/windows-10-microsoft-a 21, 2015. Retrieved February 7, 2015.
ttempts-a-saas-model/a/d-id/1321473). 71. "Microsoft is bringing Windows desktop apps to mobile
www.informationweek.com. Retrieved June 27, 2021. ARM processors" (https://www.theverge.com/2016/1
57. Hachman, Mark (April 30, 2015). "Windows forever: 2/7/13866936/microsoft-windows-10-arm-desktop-apps-
Windows 10 builds will continue even after Microsoft support-qualcomm). The Verge. Vox Media. December 7,
ships it" (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2917474/wind 2016. Retrieved December 8, 2016.
ows-forever-windows-10-builds-will-continue-even-after- 72. LeBlanc, Brandon (July 6, 2015). "Updates to
microsoft-ships-it.html). PCWorld. Archived (https://we Entertainment in Windows 10" (https://blogs.windows.co
b.archive.org/web/20210302150358/https://www.pcworl m/windowsexperience/2015/07/06/updates-to-entertain
d.com/article/2917474/windows-forever-windows-10-buil ment-in-windows-10/). Windows Experience Blog.
ds-will-continue-even-after-microsoft-ships-it.html) from Microsoft. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
the original on March 2, 2021. Retrieved June 16, 2021.

17 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

73. Peter, Bright (March 3, 2015). "Microsoft's next attempt 88. Nguyen, Chuong (April 22, 2015). "Device Guard
to fill the Windows 10 app gap: Web app apps" (https://a safeguards Windows 10 with hardware authentication"
rstechnica.com/information-technology/2015/03/microso (http://www.techradar.com/news/software/security-softw
fts-next-attempt-to-fill-the-windows-10-app-gap-web-ap are/device-guard-safeguards-windows-10-with-hardwar
p-apps/). Ars Technica. Condé Nast. Retrieved March 9, e-authentication-1291767). TechRadar. Future.
2015. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
74. Foley, Mary Jo (April 29, 2015). "Here's how Microsoft 89. Denning, Adam (October 7, 2014). "Console
hopes to get Android and iOS phone apps into its Improvements in the Windows 10 Technical Preview" (ht
Windows 10 Store" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/here tps://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/2014/10/07/conso
s-how-microsoft-hopes-to-get-android-and-ios-phone-ap le-improvements-in-the-windows-10-technical-preview/).
ps-into-its-windows-10-store/). ZDNet. Retrieved Windows Developer Blog. Microsoft. Retrieved April 22,
May 14, 2019. 2019.
75. Warren, Tom (January 28, 2015). "Windows 10: a closer 90. "Announcing CUDA on Windows Subsystem for Linux 2"
look at the future of Microsoft's vision for PCs" (https://w (https://developer.nvidia.com/blog/announcing-cuda-on-
ww.theverge.com/2015/1/28/7927109/windows-10-featu windows-subsystem-for-linux-2/). NVIDIA Developer
res-hands-on). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved April 22, Blog. June 17, 2020. Retrieved January 2, 2021. "For
2019. WSL 2 to be able to leverage the power of GPU-PV,
76. "Windows 10 review: Technical Preview (January 2015)" Microsoft had to implement the foundation of their
(http://www.alphr.com/microsoft/microsoft-windows-10/2 graphics framework within the Linux guest: the WDDM
5290/windows-10-uk-release-everything-you-need-to-kn model with the GPU-PV protocol. The new Microsoft
ow). PC Pro. July 29, 2015. Retrieved February 7, 2015. driver sits behind support for the WDDM model on
77. "Windows 10 Settings Menu: The System tab" (https://w Linux, called dxgkrnl."
ww.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10-settings-menu-the-sys 91. craigloewen-msft. "WSL 2 Frequently Asked Questions"
tem-tab/). CNET. Retrieved February 7, 2015. (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wsl/wsl2-faq)
78. Thurrott, Paul (April 23, 2015). "Windows 10 Technical . Microsoft Learn. Retrieved January 2, 2021. "We have
Preview 2: Configure Tablet Mode" (https://www.thurrot released support for accessing the GPU inside of WSL 2
t.com/windows/windows-10/3116/windows-10-technical- distros! This means you can now use WSL for machine
preview-2-configure-tablet-mode). Thurrott.com. learning, artificial intelligence, and data science
Retrieved July 16, 2015. scenarios more easily when big data sets are involved."
79. Thurrott, Paul (March 20, 2015). "Windows 10 Technical 92. Gartenberg, Chaim (May 19, 2017). "Linux distros won't
run on Windows 10 S after all" (https://www.theverge.co
Preview 2: Continuum and Tablet Mode" (https://www.th
m/circuitbreaker/2017/5/19/15666356/linux-distros-com
urrott.com/windows/windows-10/2240/windows-10-tech
mand-line-windows-10-s-store). The Verge. Vox Media.
nical-preview-2-continuum-and-tablet-mode).
Thurrott.com. Retrieved July 16, 2015. 93. Foley, Mary Jo (March 29, 2016). "Microsoft to show
Bash on Linux running on Windows 10" (https://www.zdn
80. Bowden, Zack (July 3, 2015). "Windows 10: The tablet
experience is better than ever (with video)" (http://ww et.com/article/microsoft-to-show-bash-on-linux-running-
w.winbeta.org/news/windows-10-tablet-experience-bette on-windows-10/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive.
r-ever). WinBeta. Retrieved July 16, 2015. 94. Foley, Mary Jo (March 30, 2016). "Here's how Microsoft
will support Bash on Windows 10" (https://www.zdnet.co
81. Bott, Ed (October 22, 2014). "Microsoft reveals
audacious plans to tighten security with Windows 10" (h m/article/heres-how-microsoft-will-support-bash-on-wind
ows-10/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive.
ttps://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-reveals-audaciou
s-plans-to-tighten-security-with-windows-10/). ZDNet. 95. Harsh, Mike (March 30, 2016). "Run Bash on Ubuntu on
Retrieved April 22, 2019. Windows" (https://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/201
6/03/30/run-bash-on-ubuntu-on-windows/). Windows
82. Tung, Liam (February 9, 2018). "No more Windows 10
passwords? Microsoft says Hello to palm-vein Experience Blog. Microsoft. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
biometrics" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/no-more-win 96. Hanselman, Scott (March 30, 2016). "Developers can
dows-10-passwords-microsoft-says-hello-to-palm-vein-bi run Bash Shell and user-mode Ubuntu Linux binaries on
ometrics/). ZDNet. Retrieved February 10, 2018. Windows 10" (http://www.hanselman.com/blog/Develop
ersCanRunBashShellAndUsermodeUbuntuLinuxBinaries
83. "Windows 10 says "Hello" to logging in with your face
and the end of passwords" (https://arstechnica.com/info OnWindows10.aspx). Scott Hanselman's Blog.
rmation-technology/2015/03/windows-10-says-hello-to-l 97. Aiello, Joey (April 1, 2016). "Bash for Windows: Why it's
ogging-in-with-your-face-and-the-end-of-passwords/). awesome and what it means for PowerShell" (https://blo
Ars Technica. March 17, 2015. Retrieved March 17, gs.msdn.microsoft.com/powershell/2016/04/01/bash-for-
2015. windows-why-its-awesome-and-what-it-means-for-power
shell/). Windows PowerShell Blog. Microsoft.
84. Staff, Ars (December 21, 2017). "Specially prepared
photos shown bypassing Windows Hello facial 98. Gartenberg, Chaim (May 11, 2017). "Ubuntu, SUSE
recognition" (https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2017/12/s Linux, and Fedora are all coming to the Windows Store"
pecially-prepared-photos-shown-bypassing-windows-hell (https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2017/5/11/15
o-facial-recognition/). Ars Technica. Retrieved July 18, 625320/ubuntu-suse-linux-fedora-windows-store-micros
2021. oft-build-2017). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved
April 22, 2019.
85. WIRED (July 18, 2021). "Hackers got past Windows Hello
by tricking a webcam" (https://arstechnica.com/informat 99. Thurrot, Paul (March 16, 2015). "Microsoft Explains OS
ion-technology/2021/07/hackers-got-past-windows-hell Compression in Windows 10" (https://www.thurrott.com/
o-by-tricking-a-webcam/). Ars Technica. Retrieved windows/windows-10/2062/microsoft-explains-os-compr
July 18, 2021. ession-in-windows-10). Thurrott.com. self-published.
Retrieved March 17, 2015.
86. Halfin, Dani; Syfuhs, Steve (October 23, 2017). "Why a
PIN is better than a password" (https://docs.microsoft.co 100. Bott, Ed (March 16, 2015). "Microsoft promises drastic
m/en-us/windows/security/identity-protection/hello-for-b cuts in disk space use for Windows 10" (https://www.zdn
usiness/hello-why-pin-is-better-than-password). et.com/article/microsoft-promises-drastic-cuts-in-disk-sp
Microsoft Docs. Microsoft. ace-use-for-windows-10/). ZDnet. CBS Interactive.
Retrieved March 17, 2015.
87. Halfin, Dani; Lich, Brian; McIlhargey, Bill (April 5, 2017).
"Windows Hello for Business Overview" (https://docs.mic
rosoft.com/en-us/windows/access-protection/hello-for-bu
siness/hello-overview). Microsoft Docs. Microsoft.
Retrieved October 30, 2017.

18 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

101. "How Windows 10 achieves its compact footprint" (http 116. Gallagher, Sean (January 22, 2015). "Windows 10 brings
s://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2015/03/16/ Cortana to the desktop" (https://arstechnica.com/inform
how-windows-10-achieves-its-compact-footprint/). ation-technology/2015/01/windows-10-brings-cortana-t
Windows Experience Blog. Microsoft. March 16, 2015. o-the-desktop/). Ars Technica. Condé Nast. Retrieved
Retrieved April 22, 2019. March 17, 2015.
102. Bradley, Tony (December 17, 2014). "Leaked Windows 117. "Windows 10 May 2019 Update review: Sandbox and a
10 Build 9901 shows smarter Storage Sense" (https://w better Windows Update improve your PC" (https://www.p
ww.techrepublic.com/article/leaked-windows-10-build-99 cworld.com/article/3363697/windows-10-may-2019-upd
01-shows-smarter-storage-sense/). TechRepublic. ate-review.html). PCWorld. May 21, 2019. Retrieved
Archived (https://web.archive.org/web/2015040217152 May 22, 2019.
7/http://www.techrepublic.com/article/leaked-windows-1 118. Warren, Tom (May 22, 2019). "Windows 10 May 2019
0-build-9901-shows-smarter-storage-sense/) from the Update: the 10 best new features" (https://www.theverg
original on April 2, 2015. Retrieved March 20, 2015. e.com/2019/5/22/18635282/microsoft-windows-10-ma
103. Foley, Mary Jo. "Microsoft's Spartan browser: What's y-2019-update-features-review). The Verge. Retrieved
under the hood" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microso May 22, 2019.
fts-spartan-browser-whats-under-the-hood/). ZDNet. CBS 119. Gartenberg, Chaim (February 28, 2020). "Microsoft
Interactive. Retrieved January 23, 2015. drops Cortana consumer skills in new Windows 10
104. "Project Spartan and the Windows 10 January Preview update" (https://www.theverge.com/2020/2/28/2115781
Build" (http://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2015/01/22/p 6/microsoft-cortana-windows-10-productivity-skills-assis
roject-spartan-and-the-windows-10-january-preview-buil tant-update). The Verge. Retrieved May 17, 2020.
d.aspx). IEBlog. Microsoft. Retrieved January 23, 2015. 120. Thurrott, Paul (August 11, 2015). "Inside Microsoft
105. Warren, Tom (April 29, 2015). "The successor to Internet Family and Windows 10 Parental Controls" (https://ww
Explorer will be named Microsoft Edge" (https://www.the w.thurrott.com/windows/windows-10/5187/inside-micros
verge.com/2015/4/29/8511169/microsoft-edge-official-n oft-family-and-windows-10-parental-controls).
ame-internet-explorer-upgrade). The Verge. Retrieved Thurrott.com. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
April 29, 2015. 121. Slater-Robins, Max (August 27, 2015). "People are
106. Warren, Tom (March 24, 2015). "Microsoft relegates freaking out over a feature in Windows 10's family
Internet Explorer to a 'legacy engine' to make way for accounts" (http://uk.businessinsider.com/there-are-priva
new browser" (https://www.theverge.com/2015/3/24/82 cy-concerns-over-windows-10s-family-activity-report-20
84781/internet-explorer-is-slowly-dying). The Verge. Vox 15-8). Business Insider. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
Media. Retrieved March 25, 2015. 122. Frank, Blair Hanley (July 2, 2015). "Windows 10's Wi-Fi
107. "Living on the Edge – our next step in helping the web Sense password sharing sparks security concerns" (http
just work" (http://blogs.msdn.com/b/ie/archive/2014/1 s://www.pcworld.com/article/2943752/wifi-passwordshar
1/11/living-on-the-edge-our-next-step-in-interoperabilit ing-feature-in-windows-10-raises-security-concerns.htm
y.aspx). IEBlog. Microsoft. Retrieved January 23, 2015. l). PC World. IDG. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
108. "Internet Explorer 11 has retired and is officially out of 123. Martinez, Juan. "The next major Windows 10 update is
support—what you need to know" (https://blogs.window scheduled for November" (https://web.archive.org/we
s.com/windowsexperience/2022/06/15/internet-explore b/20160811052541/http://www.techradar.com/us/news/
r-11-has-retired-and-is-officially-out-of-support-what-yo software/operating-systems/the-next-major-windows-10-
u-need-to-know). June 15, 2022. Retrieved August 26, update-is-scheduled-for-november-1303427).
2022. TechRadar. Archived from the original (http://www.techr
109. "Internet Explorer 11 desktop app support ended for adar.com/us/news/software/operating-systems/the-next-
certain versions of Windows 10" (https://docs.microsof major-windows-10-update-is-scheduled-for-november-13
t.com/lifecycle/announcements/internet-explorer-11-en 03427) on August 11, 2016. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
d-of-support-windows-10). June 15, 2022. Retrieved 124. Warren, Tom (January 22, 2015). "Microsoft is turning
August 26, 2022. Skype into its own version of iMessage in Windows 10"
110. Warren, Tom (November 4, 2019). "Microsoft's Edge (https://www.theverge.com/2015/1/22/7871919/skype-fo
Chromium browser will launch on January 15th with a r-windows-10-features). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved
new logo" (https://www.theverge.com/2019/11/4/20942 April 22, 2019.
038/microsoft-edge-chromium-release-date-new-logo-fe 125. "Xbox on Windows 10: social features, game DVR and
atures). The Verge. Retrieved January 9, 2020. more" (https://www.engadget.com/2015/01/21/microsof
111. "What is Microsoft Edge Legacy?" (https://support.micro t-windows-10-xbox/). Engadget. AOL. January 21, 2015.
soft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/what-is-microsoft-edge-le Retrieved January 21, 2015.
gacy-3e779e55-4c55-08e6-ecc8-2333768c0fb0). 126. "Xbox app coming to Windows 10, Microsoft confirms"
Microsoft. Retrieved October 21, 2020. (http://www.polygon.com/2015/1/21/7867479/xbox-app-
112. Warren, Tom (June 16, 2020). "Microsoft's next major windows-10-microsoft-phil-spencer). Polygon. Vox
Windows 10 update will include the new Edge browser" Media. January 21, 2015. Retrieved January 21, 2015.
(https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/16/21293153/micros 127. "Windows 10 will let you stream Xbox One games to any
oft-windows-10-update-20h2-microsoft-edge-features). Windows 10 PC or tablet" (http://www.polygon.com/201
The Verge. Retrieved October 22, 2022. 5/1/21/7867545/windows-10-stream-xbox-one-games).
113. Gralla, Preston (May 12, 2020). "Review: Windows 10 Polygon. Vox Media. January 21, 2015. Retrieved
May 2020 Update delivers little tweaks that add up to… January 21, 2015.
well, not a lot" (https://www.computerworld.com/articl 128. "Phil Spencer Announces Developer Tools to Bring
e/3541312/review-windows-10-may-2020-update-deliver Games to Billions" (http://news.xbox.com/2015/02/13/xb
s-little-tweaks-that-add-up-to-well-not-a-lot.html). ox-gdc-2015/). Xbox Blog. Microsoft. February 13, 2015.
Computerworld. Retrieved May 17, 2020. Retrieved March 18, 2015.
114. "Microsoft starts pushing coronavirus info in Windows 129. "Xbox One and PC Cross-Buy Will Be "Platform Feature,"
Search" (https://www.pcworld.idg.com.au/article/67886 Says Phil Specner" (http://www.gamespot.com/articles/x
4/microsoft-starts-pushing-coronavirus-info-windows-sea box-one-and-pc-cross-buy-will-be-platform-feature/110
rch/). PC World. Retrieved May 17, 2020. 0-6434739/?ftag=GSS-05-10aaa0a). GameSpot. CBS
115. Kingsley-Hughes, Adrian (January 21, 2015). "Windows Interactive. Retrieved February 14, 2016.
10: Can Cortana persuade us to talk to our tech?" (http 130. "Candy Crush Saga is Coming to Windows 10" (http://ne
s://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-10-can-cortana-pers ws.xbox.com/2015/05/14/games-candy-crush-saga-is-co
uade-us-to-talk-to-our-tech/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive. ming-to-windows-10/). Xbox Wire. Microsoft. May 14,
Retrieved March 17, 2015. 2014. Retrieved May 15, 2014.

19 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

131. Kamen, Matt (July 30, 2015). "Windows 10 makes you 144. "What's new for Windows 10 Insider Preview display
pay to remove ads from Solitaire" (https://www.wired.c drivers (WDDM 2.0)" (https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/
o.uk/news/archive/2015-07/30/windows-10-paid-ad-rem library/windows/hardware/dn932171(v=vs.85).aspx).
oval-solitaire). Wired. Condé Nast. Retrieved MSDN. Microsoft. Retrieved June 20, 2015.
November 5, 2015. 145. "Microsoft reveals all the editions of Windows 10" (http
132. "Recording Game Clips | Game DVR | Windows 10 s://www.theverge.com/2015/5/13/8599841/windows-10-
Games" (https://web.archive.org/web/20171201044219/ home-mobile-pro-editions). The Verge. May 13, 2015.
https://support.xbox.com/en-CA/xbox-on-windows/socia Retrieved May 13, 2015.
l/record-game-clips-game-dvr-windows-10). 146. "Introducing Windows 10 Editions" (http://blogs.window
support.xbox.com. Archived from the original (https://su s.com/windowsexperience/2015/05/13/introducing-wind
pport.xbox.com/en-CA/xbox-on-windows/social/record-g ows-10-editions/). Microsoft. May 13, 2015. Retrieved
ame-clips-game-dvr-windows-10) on December 1, 2017. May 13, 2015.
Retrieved April 2, 2016.
147. "Our first look at Windows 10 on phones, and Universal
133. Aul, Gabe (November 12, 2014). "New build available to Apps for touchscreens" (https://arstechnica.com/gadget
the Windows Insider Program" (http://blogs.windows.co s/2015/01/our-first-look-at-windows-10-on-phones-and-u
m/windowsexperience/2014/11/12/new-build-available-t niversal-apps-for-touchscreens/). Ars Technica. Condé
o-the-windows-insider-program/). Microsoft. Retrieved Nast. January 21, 2015. Retrieved January 23, 2015.
November 15, 2014.
148. "Microsoft starts selling a Surface Laptop with Windows
134. Newman, Jared (November 26, 2014). "Audio snobs 10 Pro pre-installed" (http://www.techradar.com/news/mi
rejoice: Windows 10 will have system-wide FLAC crosoft-starts-selling-a-surface-laptop-with-windows-10-
support" (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2852595/audi pro-pre-installed). TechRadar. Retrieved February 3,
o-snobs-rejoice-windows-10-will-have-system-wide-flac- 2018.
support.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
149. "Meet Windows 10 S, a streamlined, simplified, Windows
135. Cooper, Daniel (April 22, 2019). "Windows 10 will play Store-only OS for schools" (http://www.pcworld.com/arti
your .MKV and .FLAC files all on its own" (https://www.en cle/3193700/windows/meet-windows-10-s-a-streamline
gadget.com/2014/11/27/windows-10-native-flac-mkv-su d-simplified-windows-store-only-os-for-schools.html). PC
pport/). Engadget. Retrieved April 22, 2019. World. May 2, 2017. Retrieved May 2, 2017.
136. "Windows 10 ohne Windows Media Center: Microsoft 150. "Windows 10 S is Microsoft's answer to Chrome OS" (htt
zieht den Schlussstrich [Update]" (https://www.pcgames ps://www.theverge.com/2017/5/2/15506378/microsoft-w
hardware.de/Windows-10-Software-259581/News/ohne- indows-10-s-os-operating-system-announced-features).
Windows-Media-Center-1158009/). PC Games Hardware The Verge. May 2, 2017. Retrieved May 2, 2017.
(in German). May 5, 2015. Retrieved April 11, 2022.
151. Bright, Peter (September 14, 2016). "Desktop apps
137. Smith, Ryan (February 6, 2015). "The DirectX 12 make their way into the Windows Store" (https://arstech
Performance Preview: AMD, NVIDIA, & Star Swarm" (htt nica.com/information-technology/2016/09/desktop-app
p://anandtech.com/show/8962/the-directx-12-performan s-make-their-way-into-the-windows-store/). Ars Technica.
ce-preview-amd-nvidia-star-swarm). Anandtech. Purch Condé Nast.
Inc. Retrieved April 22, 2019. 152. "Windows 10 Cloud looks just like Windows 10 in leaked
138. Langley, Bryan. "DirectX 12 and Windows 10" (https://w screenshots" (https://www.theverge.com/2017/2/3/1450
eb.archive.org/web/20141004051236/http://blogs.msd 2748/windows-10-cloud-leaked-screenshots). The Verge.
n.com/b/directx/archive/2014/10/01/directx-12-and-wind Vox Media. February 3, 2017. Retrieved March 11, 2017.
ows-10.aspx). DirectX Developer Blog. Archived from
153. "Leaked Microsoft document confirms Windows 10 Cloud
the original (http://blogs.msdn.com/b/directx/archive/20 and a Chromebook competitor" (http://www.pcworld.co
14/10/01/directx-12-and-windows-10.aspx) on October m/article/3191195/computers/leaked-microsoft-docume
4, 2014. Retrieved October 3, 2014. nt-confirms-windows-10-cloud-and-a-chromebook-comp
139. "Windows 10 will woo gamers with supercharged etitor.html). Pcworld. IDG. April 21, 2017. Retrieved
DirectX 12 graphics API" (http://www.pcworld.com/articl April 23, 2017.
e/2690788/windows-10-will-woo-gamers-with-superchar
154. Warren, Tom (March 8, 2018). "Microsoft admits
ged-directx-12-graphics-api.html). PCWorld. October 3, Windows 10 S was confusing, new 'S Mode' upgrades
2014. Retrieved October 3, 2014. will be free" (https://www.theverge.com/2018/3/8/17095
140. "Microsoft details DirectX 12 for better Xbox One, PC 424/microsoft-windows-10-s-mode-free-upgrades). The
performance" (http://www.techradar.com/news/gaming/ Verge. Retrieved April 22, 2019.
microsoft-previews-directx-12-for-better-pc-and-xbox-on
155. Tung, Liam. "Windows 10 to permit block on apps
e-performance-1235804). Techradar. March 21, 2014.
installing if they're not from Microsoft Store" (https://ww
Retrieved October 3, 2014. w.zdnet.com/article/windows-10-to-permit-block-on-app
141. Smith, Ryan (March 24, 2014). "Microsoft Announces s-installing-if-theyre-not-from-microsoft-store/). ZDNet.
DirectX 12: Low Level Graphics Programming Comes To Retrieved March 8, 2018.
DirectX" (http://anandtech.com/show/7889/microsoft-an
156. Warren, Tom (October 1, 2014). "Windows 10 Technical
nounces-directx-12-low-level-graphics-programming-co Preview now available to download" (https://www.thever
mes-to-directx/2). AnandTech. Purch Inc. Retrieved
ge.com/2014/10/1/6877195/windows-10-technical-previ
March 17, 2015. ew-download). The Verge. Retrieved October 1, 2014.
142. Smith, Ryan (March 3, 2015). "Next Generation OpenGL
157. "Windows 10: Microsoft hits a turbo button to get back
Becomes Vulkan: Additional Details Released" (http://ww to business" (https://www.theverge.com/2014/10/1/6880
w.anandtech.com/show/9038/next-generation-opengl-be 953/windows-10-microsoft-hits-a-turbo-button-to-get-ba
comes-vulkan-additional-details-released). Anandtech. ck-to-business). The Verge. October 2014. Retrieved
Purch. Retrieved June 20, 2015. October 1, 2014.
143. Michaud, Scott (May 4, 2015). "BUILD 2015: The Final
158. "Microsoft launches Windows Insider Program to get
DirectX 12 Reveal" (http://www.pcper.com/reviews/Grap Windows betas" (https://arstechnica.com/information-te
hics-Cards/BUILD-2015-Final-DirectX-12-Reveal). PC
chnology/2014/09/microsoft-launches-windows-insider-p
Perspective. Archived (https://web.archive.org/web/2015 rogram-to-get-windows-betas/). Ars Technica.
0905111424/http://www.pcper.com/reviews/Graphics-Ca
September 30, 2014. Retrieved October 1, 2014.
rds/BUILD-2015-Final-DirectX-12-Reveal) from the
original on September 5, 2015. Retrieved August 22, 159. "Microsoft stealthily backs away from free Windows 10
2015. promise" (https://arstechnica.com/information-technolo
gy/2015/06/microsoft-stealthily-backs-away-from-free-wi
ndows-10-promise/). Ars Technica. June 21, 2015.
Retrieved June 22, 2015.

20 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

160. "Microsoft clarification kinda clears up free Windows 10 176. "Windows 10 will be free for software pirates" (https://w
license confusion" (https://arstechnica.com/information- ww.theverge.com/2015/3/18/8241023/windows-10-free-f
technology/2015/06/microsoft-clarification-kinda-clears- or-software-pirates). The Verge. March 18, 2015.
up-free-windows-10-license-confusion/). Ars Technica. Retrieved March 18, 2015.
Conde Nast Digital. June 22, 2015. Retrieved June 23, 177. "Microsoft prices Windows 10 licenses at $119 for
2015. Home, $199 for Pro" (https://www.cnet.com/news/micros
161. Thurrott, Paul (June 1, 2015). "HP Exec Explains Why oft-prices-single-windows-10-licenses-at-119-for-home-1
Windows 10 Launch is Different" (https://www.thurrott.c 99-for-pro/). CNET. CBS Interactive. Retrieved June 1,
om/windows/windows-10/3901/hp-exec-explains-why-wi 2015.
ndows-10-launch-is-different). Thurrott.com. self- 178. "Details of free Windows 10 update become a little
published. Retrieved June 21, 2015. clearer, but questions remain" (https://arstechnica.com/i
162. "Windows 10 Build 10240 Released To All Insiders" (htt nformation-technology/2015/05/details-of-free-window
p://www.anandtech.com/show/9444/windows-10-build-1 s-10-update-become-a-little-clearer-but-questions-remai
0240-released-to-all-insiders). Anandtech. Purch, Inc. n/). Ars Technica. May 19, 2015. Retrieved May 21,
Retrieved July 27, 2015. 2015.
163. "Windows 10 testers get access to the final version" (htt 179. Smith, Ryan. "Windows 10 Retail Will Be on USB Flash
ps://www.theverge.com/2015/7/15/8974359/microsoft-w Drives" (http://www.anandtech.com/show/9450/window
indows-10-build-10240-testers). The Verge. Vox Media. s-10-retail-will-be-on-usb-flash-drives). Anandtech.
July 15, 2015. Retrieved July 15, 2015. Purch, Inc. Retrieved July 17, 2015.
164. "Windows 10 Build 10240 is the RTM version, but 180. "Windows 10 won't be available on all new PCs come
Microsoft wishes you'd stop calling it that" (http://www.e launch day" (https://www.cnet.com/news/windows-10-w
xtremetech.com/computing/210787-windows-10-build-1 ont-be-available-on-new-pcs-come-launch-day/). CNET.
0240-is-the-rtm-version-but-microsoft-wishes-youd-stop- CBS Interactive. Retrieved July 14, 2015.
calling-it-that). ExtremeTech. Retrieved August 4, 2015. 181. "Microsoft's Windows RT isn't dead…yet" (https://www.c
165. Popa, Bogdan (July 15, 2015). "Windows 10 Has net.com/news/microsofts-windows-rt-isnt-dead-yet/).
Reached RTM" (http://news.softpedia.com/news/window CNET. CBS Interactive. Retrieved January 21, 2015.
s-10-has-reached-rtm-487002.shtml). softpedia. 182. "Upgrade to Windows 10: FAQ" (http://windows.microsof
Retrieved August 4, 2015. t.com/en-us/windows-10/upgrade-to-windows-10-faq).
166. "Windows 10 hits RTM milestone ahead of July 29th Microsoft. Retrieved May 18, 2016.
launch" (http://www.winbeta.org/news/its-official-windo 183. "Windows 10 Specifications & Systems Requirements"
ws-10-has-reached-rtm). WinBeta. November 30, 2001. (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-
Retrieved August 4, 2015. specifications). Windows Help. Microsoft. Archived (http
167. "Windows 10's final build number is delightfully clever" s://web.archive.org/web/20180501190351/https://ww
(https://www.theverge.com/2015/7/15/8945373/window w.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-specificatio
s-10-rtm-final-build-number). The Verge. July 15, 2015. ns) from the original on May 1, 2018.
Retrieved July 27, 2015. 184. "What Windows as a Service and a "free upgrade" mean
168. Thurrott, Paul (July 22, 2015). "No RTM for Windows 10, at home and at work" (https://arstechnica.com/informati
Microsoft Says" (https://www.thurrott.com/windows/wind on-technology/2015/07/what-windows-as-a-service-and-
ows-10/4797/no-rtm-for-windows-10-microsoft-says). a-free-upgrade-mean-at-home-and-at-work/). Ars
Thurrott.com. Retrieved July 27, 2015. Technica. Retrieved February 1, 2015.
169. "Microsoft has finalized Windows 10" (https://www.theve 185. "Genuine Windows and Windows 10" (http://blogs.windo
rge.com/2015/7/15/8950481/microsoft-windows-10-rtm- ws.com/windowsexperience/2015/05/15/genuine-windo
date). The Verge. Vox Media. July 15, 2015. Retrieved ws-and-windows-10/). Windows Blog. Microsoft. May 16,
July 15, 2015. 2015. Retrieved May 16, 2015. "While our free offer to
170. "Experts Talk Windows 10 and Microsoft's New Service upgrade to Windows 10 will not apply to Non-Genuine
Branch Options" (https://redmondmag.com/articles/201 Windows devices".
5/07/30/windows-10-service-branch-options.aspx). 186. "The Windows 10 free upgrade for pirates: More
Redmond Magazine. Retrieved August 6, 2015. confusing than it seems" (https://arstechnica.com/infor
171. Barrett, Brian (July 29, 2015). "How to Upgrade to mation-technology/2015/03/the-windows-10-free-upgrad
Windows 10" (https://www.wired.com/2015/07/everythin e-for-pirates-more-confusing-than-it-seems/). Ars
g-you-need-to-know-about-windows-10-how-to-upgrad Technica. March 19, 2015. Retrieved March 19, 2015.
e/). Wired. Retrieved July 31, 2015. 187. Paul, Ian (August 12, 2015). "Why you can't find your
172. Hay, Richard (July 30, 2015). "How to make sure your product key after upgrading to Windows 10" (http://ww
free copy of Windows 10 is activated" (https://web.archi w.pcworld.com/article/2970075/windows/why-you-cant-fi
ve.org/web/20150801182728/http://winsupersite.com/wi nd-your-product-key-after-upgrading-to-windows-10.htm
ndows-10/how-make-sure-your-free-copy-windows-10-ac l). PC World. IDG. Retrieved August 13, 2015.
tivated). Supersite for Windows. Penton. Archived from 188. "How to clean install Windows 10" (https://www.theverg
the original (http://winsupersite.com/windows-10/how-m e.com/2015/7/31/9077997/microsoft-windows-10-clean-i
ake-sure-your-free-copy-windows-10-activated) on nstall-how-to-guide). The Verge. July 31, 2015. Retrieved
August 1, 2015. Retrieved July 31, 2015. August 22, 2015.
173. Bott, Ed. "Windows 10 to launch 'this summer' with free 189. "Announcing Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 10565"
upgrades even for pirated copies" (https://www.zdnet.co (http://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2015/1
m/article/windows-10-to-launch-this-summer-with-free-u 0/12/announcing-windows-10-insider-preview-build-1056
pgrades-for-pirated-copies/). ZDNet. Retrieved 5/). Windows 10 blog. Microsoft Corporation. October
March 18, 2015. 12, 2015. Retrieved October 12, 2015.
174. "Windows 10 will be a free upgrade for all users 190. Keizer, Gregg (April 8, 2015). "Automatic update
worldwide [Updated]" (https://arstechnica.com/informati delivered to most Windows 7 and 8.1 consumer devices
on-technology/2015/03/windows-10-will-be-a-free-upgra illustrates aggressive marketing intent" (http://www.com
de-for-genuine-and-non-genuine-users/). Ars Technica. puterworld.com/article/2906810/microsoft-seeds-windo
March 18, 2015. Retrieved March 18, 2015. ws-7-81-pcs-with-windows-10-upgrade-nag-notices.htm
175. "Microsoft says Windows 10 could ship this summer, l). Computerworld. IDC. Retrieved July 4, 2015.
and new features keep coming" (http://www.pcworld.co
m/article/2898418/microsoft-will-ship-windows-10-this-s
ummer.html). PC World. March 17, 2015. Retrieved
March 18, 2015.

21 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

191. "Reserve your free Windows 10 upgrade, download 205. "Improving the update discoverability experience" (http
available on July 29" (https://web.archive.org/web/2015 s://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blo
0602181301/http://www.networkworld.com/article/2929 g/improving-the-update-discoverability-experience/ba-
473/microsoft-subnet/reserve-your-free-windows-10-upg p/1585674). Microsoft Tech Community. August 12,
rade-download-available-on-july-29.html). Network 2020. Retrieved August 12, 2020.
World. June 2015. Archived from the original (http://ww 206. Paul, Ian (August 26, 2015). "How to cure Windows 10's
w.networkworld.com/article/2929473/microsoft-subnet/r worst headaches" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/2975
eserve-your-free-windows-10-upgrade-download-availab 289/windows/how-to-cure-windows-10s-worst-headache
le-on-july-29.html) on June 2, 2015. Retrieved June 1, s.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved April 4, 2016.
2015. 207. "How to temporarily prevent a Windows or driver update
192. "Windows 10 installation files already sneaking onto from reinstalling in Windows 10" (https://support.micros
Windows 7 and 8 PCs" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/2 oft.com/en-us/kb/3073930). Support. Microsoft. July 28,
953593/windows/windows-10-installation-files-already-s 2015. Retrieved April 4, 2016.
neaking-onto-windows-7-and-8-pcs.html). PC World.
208. "Windows 10 updates to be automatic and mandatory
IDG. July 28, 2015. Retrieved July 29, 2015. for Home users" (https://arstechnica.com/information-te
193. "How to get the Windows 10 update" (https://www.theve chnology/2015/07/windows-10-updates-to-be-automati
rge.com/2015/7/28/9060737/microsoft-windows-10-upgr c-and-mandatory-for-home-users/). Ars Technica. July
ade-how-to-guide). The Verge. Vox Media. July 28, 2015. 17, 2015. Retrieved July 17, 2015.
Retrieved July 29, 2015.
209. "Microsoft cloaks the details of Windows 10 updates" (ht
194. "Here's How to Get Windows 10 for Free—Still" (https:// tp://www.computerworld.com/article/2950154/microsoft-
www.cnet.com/news/microsoft-windows-10-free-upgrad windows/microsoft-cloaks-the-details-of-windows-10-upd
e-offer-assistive-features/). CNET. Retrieved August 1, ates.html). Computerworld. IDG. July 20, 2015.
2016. Retrieved September 3, 2015.
195. "Microsoft waives July's Windows 10 upgrade deadline 210. "Windows 10 users beg Microsoft for more info on
for assistive-tech users" (http://www.pcworld.com/articl updates" (http://www.computerworld.com/article/29837
e/3067755/windows/microsoft-waives-julys-windows-10- 53/microsoft-windows/windows-10-users-beg-microsoft-f
upgrade-deadline-for-assistive-tech-users.html). PC or-more-info-on-updates.html). Computerworld. IDG.
World. IDG. May 9, 2016. Retrieved August 1, 2016. September 14, 2015. Retrieved September 30, 2015.
196. Warren, Tom (August 1, 2016). "You can still get 211. "Microsoft License Terms" (https://www.microsoft.com/e
Windows 10 for free with this trick" (https://www.theverg n-us/Useterms/Retail/Windows/10/UseTerms_Retail_Wind
e.com/2016/8/1/12340318/microsoft-windows-10-free-u ows_10_English.htm). www.microsoft.com. Section 13b.
pgrade-still-available). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved Retrieved March 30, 2020.
August 1, 2016.
212. "How to stop Windows 10 from using your PC's
197. Bott, Ed. "Microsoft quietly announces end of last free bandwidth to update strangers' systems" (http://www.pc
Windows 10 upgrade offer" (https://www.zdnet.com/artic world.com/article/2955491/windows/how-to-stop-windo
le/microsoft-quietly-announces-end-of-last-free-window ws-10-from-using-your-pcs-bandwidth-to-update-strange
s-10-upgrades/). ZDNet. Retrieved November 3, 2017. rs-systems.html). PC World. IDG. August 3, 2015.
198. Kelly, Gordon. "How To Upgrade To Windows 10 For Retrieved August 4, 2015.
'Free' In 2020 [Updated]" (https://www.forbes.com/sites/ 213. "Lifecycle FAQ - Windows" (https://learn.microsoft.com/e
gordonkelly/2020/02/04/how-to-upgrade-to-windows-10- n-us/lifecycle/faq/windows). Microsoft Learn. Retrieved
for-free-in-2020/#6cc24ad875ff). Forbes. Retrieved January 8, 2024.
July 17, 2020.
214. "Windows 10 Lifecycle" (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-
199. Warren, Tom. "How to upgrade from Windows 7 to us/lifecycle/products/?terms=Windows%2010).
Windows 10 for free" (https://www.theverge.com/202 Microsoft Learn. Microsoft. Retrieved January 8, 2024.
0/1/14/21065140/how-to-upgrade-microsoft-window
215. Woods, Rich (January 14, 2020). "Windows 10 Mobile is
s-7-10-free-os). The Verge. Retrieved November 14, dead…again" (https://www.neowin.net/news/windows-1
2020. 0-mobile-is-dead--again). Neowin. Retrieved August 21,
200. "Windows Ends Installation Path for Free Windows 7/8 2020.
Upgrade" (https://devicepartner.microsoft.com/en-us/co
216. "Windows 10 IoT Core Services" (https://docs.microsoft.c
mmunications/comm-windows-ends-installation-path-fo om/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/iot/iotcoreser
r-free-windows-7-8-upgrade). vicesoverview). Microsoft documentation. Microsoft.
devicepartner.microsoft.com. Retrieved September 29, December 9, 2020. Retrieved November 28, 2021.
2023.
217. "Windows 10 Client and Windows Server Semi-Annual
201. "Windows 10 lets you schedule Windows Update
Channel Lifecycle Policy update" (https://learn.microsof
restarts" (https://www.cnet.com/how-to/windows-10-let
t.com/en-us/lifecycle/announcements/windows-10-mode
s-you-schedule-windows-update-restarts/). CNET. rn-policy). Microsoft Learn. August 2022. Retrieved
Retrieved August 4, 2015. January 8, 2024.
202. "Did Microsoft Just Backtrack on Forced Updates For
218. "All editions of Windows 10 get 10 years of updates,
Windows 10?" (http://www.crn.com/news/applications-o support" (http://www.computerworld.com/article/294923
s/300077576/did-microsoft-just-backtrack-on-forced-upd
0/microsoft-windows/all-editions-of-windows-10-get-10-y
ates-for-windows-10.htm). CRN.com. July 27, 2015. ears-of-updates). Computerworld. IDG. July 17, 2015.
Retrieved August 4, 2015. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
203. Paul, Ian (March 17, 2017). "Windows 10's Creators
219. "Microsoft swings security patch stick to keep customers
Update tweaks a workaround for mandatory updates" (h up-to-date on Windows 10" (http://www.computerworl
ttps://www.pcworld.com/article/3181991/windows-10s-cr
d.com/article/2935363/microsoft-windows/microsoft-swi
eators-update-may-nerf-a-workaround-to-mandatory-up
ngs-security-patch-stick-to-keep-customers-up-to-date-o
dates.html). PC World. Retrieved April 22, 2019. n-windows-10.html). Computerworld. IDG. June 13,
204. Paul, Ian (July 28, 2016). "Set Windows 10's Wi-Fi 2015. Retrieved July 18, 2015.
connections as metered to download forced updates at
220. "Microsoft to provide free upgrades to Windows 10 for 2
your own pace" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/295313 to 4 years" (http://www.computerworld.com/article/2945
2/windows/set-windows-10s-wi-fi-connections-as-metere
796/microsoft-windows/microsoft-to-provide-free-upgrad
d-to-download-forced-updates-at-your-own-pace.html). es-to-windows-10-for-2-to-4-years.html).
PC World. IDG. Retrieved April 4, 2016. Computerworld. IDG. July 8, 2015. Retrieved July 15,
2015.

22 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

221. Hachman, Mark (July 20, 2017). "Confirmed: Windows 234.

"Overview of Windows as a service" (https://docs.micros
10 may cut off devices with older CPUs" (http://www.pc oft.com/en-us/windows/deployment/update/waas-overvi
world.com/article/3209705/windows/confirmed-window ew). Microsoft. Retrieved November 15, 2017.
s-10-will-cut-off-devices-with-older-cpus.html). PC Warren, Tom (April 20, 2017). "Microsoft will now release
235.
World. IDG. major Windows 10 updates every March and
222. Leznek, Jason (April 27, 2023). "Windows client roadmap September" (https://www.theverge.com/2017/4/20/1537
update" (https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windo 4864/microsoft-windows-10-update-september-2017).
ws-it-pro-blog/windows-client-roadmap-update/ba-p/380 The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved April 21, 2017.
5227). Microsoft. Retrieved May 1, 2023. Bott, Ed. "What's new in Windows 10 version 20H2" (htt
236.
223. Bowden, Zack (April 27, 2023). "Windows 10 is finished ps://www.zdnet.com/article/whats-new-in-windows-10-ve
— Microsoft confirms 'version 22H2' is the last" (https:// rsion-20h2/). ZDNet. Retrieved October 23, 2020.
www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/windows-10/wi 237. Leonhard, Woody (July 17, 2015). "Windows 10 forced
ndows-10-is-finished-microsoft-confirms-version-22h2-is- updates: Don't panic" (http://www.infoworld.com/articl
the-last). Windows Central. Retrieved May 1, 2023. e/2949622/microsoft-windows/windows-10-forced-updat
224. "Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 could send es-dont-panic.html). InfoWorld. IDG. Retrieved August 4,
240 mln PCs to landfills - report" (https://www.reuters.co 2015.
m/technology/microsoft-ending-support-windows-10-cou 238. Foley, Mary Jo. "Some Windows 10 Enterprise users
ld-send-240-mln-pcs-landfills-report-2023-12-21). won't get Microsoft's Edge browser" (https://www.zdne
Reuters. December 21, 2023. t.com/article/some-windows-10-enterprise-users-wont-g
225. Sped, Richard (April 3, 2024). "Want to keep Windows et-microsofts-edge-browser/). ZDNet. Retrieved May 5,
10 secure? This is how much Microsoft will charge you" 2019.
(https://www.theregister.com/2024/04/03/windows_10_e 239. Keizer, Gregg (November 29, 2018). "FAQ: Windows 10
xtended_support/). The Register. Situation Publishing. LTSB explained" (https://www.computerworld.com/articl
Retrieved April 19, 2024. e/3250464/faq-windows-10-ltsb-explained.html).
226. Warren, Tom (April 3, 2024). "Microsoft reveals how Computerworld. Retrieved May 5, 2019.
much businesses will have to pay to keep using "Microsoft reveals biggest-ever change in Windows
240.
Windows 10 securely" (https://www.theverge.com/202 updates" (http://www.computerworld.com/article/26912
4/4/3/24120093/microsoft-windows-10-extended-securit 11/microsoft-reveals-biggest-ever-change-in-windows-u
y-updates-price). The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved pdates.html). Computerworld. October 3, 2014.
April 19, 2024. Retrieved October 4, 2014.
227. "Windows 10 for Enterprise: More secure and up to "Introducing Windows 10 for Business" (http://blogs.win
241.
date" (https://web.archive.org/web/20170708085808/htt dows.com/business/2014/09/30/introducing-windows-1
ps://blogs.windows.com/business/2015/01/30/windows-1 0-for-business/). Windows Blog. Retrieved October 4,
0-for-enterprise-more-secure-and-up-to-date/). Windows 2014.
Experience Blog. Microsoft. January 30, 2015. Archived
Endler, Michael (October 4, 2014). "Windows 10: 5
242.
from the original (http://blogs.windows.com/business/20 Unanswered Questions" (http://www.informationweek.co
15/01/30/windows-10-for-enterprise-more-secure-and-u m/software/operating-systems/windows-10-5-unanswere
p-to-date/) on July 8, 2017. Retrieved February 8, 2015. d-questions/d/d-id/1316350). InformationWeek.
228. Foly, Mary Jo (May 14, 2015). "Piecing together the Retrieved October 4, 2014.
Windows as a Service puzzle for Windows 10" (https://w
Gregg Keizer (May 9, 2017). "Enterprise alert: Microsoft
243.
ww.zdnet.com/article/piecing-together-the-windows-as- slates next Windows 10 LTSB release for 2019" (https://
a-service-puzzle-for-windows-10/). ZDNet. CBS www.computerworld.com/article/3195318/microsoft-win
Interactive. Retrieved June 1, 2015. dows/enterprise-alert-microsoft-slates-next-windows-10-
229. Trent, Rod (June 12, 2015). "Keeping Windows 10 Up-to- ltsb-release-for-2019.html). Computerworld. Retrieved
Date for Enterprises, CBB Will Have 8 Months to Update" May 5, 2019.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20150701164004/http://wi
Speed, Richard (January 30, 2019). "Are you a Windows
244.
ndowsitpro.com/windows-10/keeping-windows-10-date-e 1 in 10 (1809)? Or a mighty 80 percenter (1803)?" (http
nterprises-cbb-will-have-8-months-update). Windows IT s://www.theregister.co.uk/2019/01/30/microsoft_window
Pro. Penton. Archived from the original (http://windowsit s_10_slow_roll_out/). The Register. Retrieved May 5,
pro.com/windows-10/keeping-windows-10-date-enterpris
2019.
es-cbb-will-have-8-months-update) on July 1, 2015.
Retrieved July 1, 2015. Mearian, Lucas (November 16, 2021). "Microsoft
245.
releases its Windows 10 November 2021 update" (http
230. "The next Windows 10 Long Term Servicing Channel
s://www.computerworld.com/article/3640973/microsoft-r
(LTSC) release" (https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t
eleases-its-windows-10-november-2021-update.html).
5/windows-it-pro-blog/the-next-windows-10-long-term-s Computerworld. Retrieved November 18, 2021.
ervicing-channel-ltsc-release/ba-p/2147232). Microsoft.
February 18, 2021. Retrieved July 2, 2021. "Microsoft rationalizes and rebrands Windows 10, Office
246.
updates again" (https://arstechnica.com/information-tec
231. However, deferrals can only be enabled using Group hnology/2017/07/microsoft-rationalizes-and-rebrands-wi
Policy past Windows 10 Group Policy Editor past release ndows-10-office-updates-again/). Ars Technica.
2004."What's new in Windows 10, version 2004 - What's Retrieved November 16, 2017.
new in Windows" (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/win
dows/whats-new/whats-new-windows-10-version-2004). 247. "The Windows Semi-Annual Channel and Targeted
Microsoft Learn. February 27, 2023. Retrieved January 8, Deployment" (https://blogs.technet.microsoft.com/surfa
2024. ce/2017/07/28/the-windows-semi-annual-channel-and-ta
rgeted-deployment/). Surface blog on TechNet.
232. "Windows 10 free for all Windows 8.1 and Windows 7
Microsoft. Retrieved October 31, 2017.
users for first year" (https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/20
15/01/windows-10-free-for-all-windows-8-1-and-window 248. "Windows Update for Business and the retirement of
s-7-users-for-first-year/). Ars Technica. January 21, 2015. SAC-T" (https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/Window
Retrieved January 21, 2015. s-IT-Pro-Blog/Windows-Update-for-Business-and-the-retir
ement-of-SAC-T/ba-p/339523). Windows IT Pro Blog.
233. Myerson, Terry (January 21, 2015). "The next generation
Microsoft. February 14, 2019. Retrieved February 17,
of Windows: Windows 10" (http://blogs.windows.com/wi
2019.
ndowsexperience/2015/01/21/the-next-generation-of-wi
ndows-windows-10/). Windows blog. Microsoft.
Retrieved January 21, 2015.

23 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

249. "What's new in Windows Update for Business in 264. "The Windows Subsystem for Linux in the Microsoft
Windows 10, version 1903" (https://techcommunity.micr Store is now generally available on Windows 10 and 11"
osoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/what-s-new-in-window (https://devblogs.microsoft.com/commandline/the-windo
s-update-for-business-in-windows-10-version/ba-p/6220 ws-subsystem-for-linux-in-the-microsoft-store-is-now-ge
64). Windows IT Pro Blog. Microsoft. May 21, 2019. nerally-available-on-windows-10-and-11/). Windows
Retrieved August 26, 2022. Command Line. November 22, 2022. Retrieved May 22,
250. Warren, Tom (April 4, 2019). "Microsoft's Windows 10 2023.
May 2019 Update puts you back in control of updates" 265. "Minimum hardware requirements" (https://docs.microso
(https://www.theverge.com/2019/4/4/18294944/microso ft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/design/minimum/minim
ft-windows-10-may-2019-update-features-availability-co um-hardware-requirements-overview). Hardware Dev
ntrol-updates). The Verge. Retrieved April 4, 2019. Center. Microsoft. May 2, 2017. Retrieved February 6,
251. "What's new in Windows 10, version 2004 - What's new 2019.
in Windows" (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/ 266. Tung, Liam (January 8, 2019). "Microsoft: Windows 10 to
whats-new/whats-new-windows-10-version-2004). grab 7GB of your storage so big updates don't fail" (http
Microsoft Learn. December 31, 2017. Retrieved July 19, s://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-windows-10-to-gra
2020. b-7gb-of-your-storage-so-big-updates-dont-fail/). ZDNet.
252. "Microsoft removed the defer feature update setting in CBS Interactive.
Windows 10" (https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/ 267. Bright, Peter (April 26, 2019). "Systems with small disks
microsoft/microsoft-removed-the-defer-feature-update-s won't be able to install Windows 10 May 2019 update"
etting-in-windows-10/). BleepingComputer. Retrieved (https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2019/04/windows-10-
July 19, 2020. may-2019-update-bumps-hardware-specs-needs-32gb-s
253. "Windows 10 Switches to Once-a-Year Feature Updates" torage/). Ars Technica. Condé Nast.
(https://www.pcmag.com/news/windows-10-switches-to- 268. "Before you install" (https://web.archive.org/web/20150
once-a-year-feature-updates). PCMag. November 17, 131020309/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-au/window
2021. Retrieved August 26, 2022. s/preview-faq-system-requirements-pc).
254. "With rollout of 21H2, Microsoft moves Windows 10 to windows.microsoft.com. Microsoft. Archived from the
annual updates" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/with-roll original (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-au/windows/pr
out-of-21h2-microsoft-moves-windows-10-to-annual-upd eview-faq-system-requirements-pc) on January 31,
ates). ZDNet. November 16, 2021. Retrieved August 26, 2015.
2022. 269. Thurrott, Paul (July 9, 2015). "Upgrade a Small Tablet or
255. "How to get the Windows 10 November 2021 Update" (h Laptop to Windows 10" (https://www.thurrott.com/windo
ttps://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/11/1 ws/windows-10/4547/upgrade-a-small-tablet-or-laptop-t
6/how-to-get-the-windows-10-november-2021-update). o-windows-10). Thurrott.com. Self-published.
Windows Blog. November 16, 2021. Retrieved 270. Sinha, Robin (March 19, 2015). "Windows 10 Minimum
August 26, 2022. Hardware Requirements and Upgrade Paths Detailed" (h
256. Hachman, Mark (April 27, 2023). "Windows 10 won't ttp://gadgets.ndtv.com/laptops/news/windows-10-minim
receive any more feature updates" (https://www.pcworl um-hardware-requirements-and-upgrade-paths-detaile
d.com/article/1801718/windows-10-wont-receive-any-m d-672319). NDTV. Red Pixels Ventures.
ore-feature-updates.html). PCWorld. 271. Bright, Peter (March 20, 2015). "Windows 10 to make
257. Keizer, Gregg (November 22, 2019). "Microsoft goes the Secure Boot alt-OS lock out a reality" (https://arstec
very small for Windows 10 1909's 'On' switch" (https://w hnica.com/information-technology/2015/03/windows-10-
ww.computerworld.com/article/3455227/microsoft-goes- to-make-the-secure-boot-alt-os-lock-out-a-reality/). Ars
very-small-for-windows-10-1909s-on-switch.html). Technica. Condé Nast.
Computerworld. Retrieved January 24, 2020. 272. Bright, Peter (March 18, 2016). "Skylake support on
258. Leonhard, Woody (November 15, 2019). "What we know Windows 7 and 8.1 given a one-year extension" (https://
about the Win10 version 1909 upgrade — and what you arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/03/skylak
can do about it" (https://www.computerworld.com/articl e-support-on-windows-7-and-8-1-given-a-one-year-exten
e/3453690/what-we-know-about-the-win10-version-190 sion/). Ars Technica. Condé Nast.
9-upgrade-and-what-you-can-do-about-it.html). 273. Keizer, Gregg (March 18, 2016). "Microsoft backtracks
Computerworld. Retrieved January 24, 2020. on Windows 7 support deadline" (http://www.computerw
259. "New Windows look and feel, Neon, is officially the orld.com/article/3046032/windows-pcs/microsoft-backtr
"Microsoft Fluent Design System" " (https://arstechnica.c acks-on-windows-7-support-deadline.html).
om/information-technology/2017/05/new-windows-look- Computerworld. IDG.
and-feel-neon-is-officially-the-microsoft-fluent-design-sy 274. Bright, Peter (January 16, 2016). "Skylake users given
stem/). Ars Technica. May 11, 2017. Retrieved May 11, 18 months to upgrade to Windows 10" (https://arstechni
2017. ca.com/information-technology/2016/01/skylake-users-g
260. Howse, Brett. "Microsoft Launches Windows 10 on ARM: iven-18-months-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/). Ars
Always Connected PCs" (https://www.anandtech.com/sh Technica. Condé Nast.
ow/12119/microsoft-launches-windows-10-on-arm-alway 275. Bott, Ed (January 15, 2016). "Microsoft updates support
s-connected-pcs). Retrieved December 5, 2017. policy: New CPUs will require Windows 10" (https://ww
261. "AMD and Qualcomm join forces to power higher-end w.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-updates-support-policy-ne
connected PCs" (https://www.engadget.com/2017/12/0 w-cpus-will-require-windows-10/). ZDNet. CBS
5/amd-qualcomm-always-connected-pc-ryzen-snapdrag Interactive.
on/). Engadget. Retrieved December 5, 2017. 276. Larsen, Shad (August 11, 2016). "Updates to Silicon
262. Warren, Tom (August 29, 2019). "Microsoft unveils new Support Policy for Windows" (https://web.archive.org/we
tablet experience for Windows 10" (https://www.theverg b/20170425131840/https://blogs.windows.com/busines
e.com/2019/8/29/20839655/microsoft-new-tablet-experi s/2016/08/11/updates-to-silicon-support-policy-for-windo
ence-windows-10-convertible-hardware-desktop). The ws/). Windows For Your Business. Microsoft. Archived
Verge. Retrieved August 30, 2019. from the original (https://blogs.windows.com/business/2
016/08/11/updates-to-silicon-support-policy-for-window
263. "The Initial Preview of GUI app support is now available
for the Windows Subsystem for Linux" (https://devblog s/) on April 25, 2017. Retrieved May 19, 2017.
s.microsoft.com/commandline/the-initial-preview-of-gui-
app-support-is-now-available-for-the-windows-subsyste
m-for-linux-2/). Windows Command Line. April 21, 2021.
Retrieved June 3, 2021.

24 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

277. Foley, Mary Jo (August 11, 2016). "Microsoft extends 293. "Windows 10s default privacy settings and controls
again support for Windows 7, 8.1 Skylake-based leave much to be desired" (http://www.extremetech.co
devices" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-exten m/extreme/211208-windows-10s-default-privacy-setting
ds-again-support-for-windows-7-8-1-skylake-based-devic s-and-controls-leave-much-to-be-desired). ExtremeTech.
es/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive. Ziff Davis. Retrieved July 31, 2015.
278. Bright, Peter (April 13, 2017). "New processors are now 294. Hoffman, Chris (January 4, 2018). "Windows 10 May
blocked from receiving updates on old Windows" (http Delete Your Programs Without Asking" (https://www.how
s://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2017/04/ne togeek.com/243581/windows-10-may-delete-your-progr
w-processors-are-now-blocked-from-receiving-updates-o ams-without-asking/). How-To Geek. Retrieved
n-old-windows/). Ars Technica. Condé Nast. February 4, 2020.
279. Paul, Ian (April 14, 2017). "Microsoft blocks Kaby Lake 295. "There's a Ridiculous Hidden Fee Inside Windows 10" (ht
and Ryzen PCs from Windows 7, 8 updates" (http://ww tps://web.archive.org/web/20150730150901/http://tim
w.pcworld.com/article/3189990/windows/microsoft-block e.com/3977862/windows-10-solitaire/). Time. Archived
s-kaby-lake-and-ryzen-pcs-from-windows-7-81-update from the original (http://time.com/3977862/windows-10-
s.html). PC World. IDG. solitaire/) on July 30, 2015. Retrieved August 5, 2015.
280. Merriman, Chris (April 19, 2017). "There's a patch to 296. "7 ways Windows 10 pushes ads at you, and how to
reinstate Windows 7 & 8.1 on Kaby Lake CPUs" (https:// stop them" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/3039827/wi
web.archive.org/web/20170420134648/http://www.thein ndows/7-ways-windows-10-pushes-ads-at-you-and-how-t
quirer.net/inquirer/news/3008609/theres-a-patch-to-rein o-stop-them.html). PC World. IDG. March 3, 2016.
state-windows-7-81-on-kaby-lake-cpus). The Inquirer. Retrieved March 21, 2017.
Archived from the original (https://www.theinquirer.net/i 297. "Microsoft is infesting Windows 10 with annoying ads" (h
nquirer/news/3008609/theres-a-patch-to-reinstate-wind ttps://www.theverge.com/2017/3/17/14956540/microsof
ows-7-81-on-kaby-lake-cpus) on April 20, 2017. t-windows-10-ads-taskbar-file-explorer). The Verge. Vox
281. Bott, Ed. "Microsoft cuts off Windows 10 support early Media. March 17, 2017. Retrieved March 21, 2017.
for some PCs" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft- 298. "Microsoft wants you to pay for Solitaire, again, in
blocks-windows-10-creators-update-on-some-pcs/). Windows 10" (http://www.pcworld.com/article/2953158/
ZDNet. Retrieved July 18, 2017. windows/microsoft-wants-you-to-pay-for-solitaire-again-i
282. Foley, Mary Jo. "Microsoft takes a step toward phasing n-windows-10.html). PC World. IDG. July 27, 2015.
out 32-bit PC support for Windows 10" (https://www.zdn Retrieved August 5, 2015.
et.com/article/microsoft-takes-a-step-toward-phasing-ou 299. Hay, Richard (March 27, 2013). "Microsoft Adds
t-32-bit-pc-support-for-windows-10/). ZDNet. Retrieved Premium Subscriptions to Windows 8 Games to Remove
May 14, 2020. Ads. Could Built in Apps be next?" (http://www.windowso
283. Hanson, Matt (June 24, 2021). "Windows 11 system bserver.com/2013/03/27/microsoft-adds-premium-subsc
requirements are bad news for old laptops and PCs" (htt riptions-to-windows-8-games-to-remove-ads-could-built-
ps://www.techradar.com/uk/news/windows-11-system-re in-apps-be-next/). Windows Observer. Retrieved
quirements-are-bad-news-for-old-laptops-and-pcs). August 5, 2015.
TechRadar. Retrieved June 24, 2021. 300. "Windows 10 goes freemium with paid apps" (https://we
284. "Memory Limits for Windows and Windows Server b.archive.org/web/20160815093441/http://www.techrad
Releases - Win32 apps" (https://docs.microsoft.com/en-u ar.com/us/news/software/operating-systems/windows-1
s/windows/win32/memory/memory-limits-for-windows-re 0-goes-freemium-with-paid-apps-1301155). Techradar.
leases). Microsoft Docs. Retrieved November 13, 2020. Archived from the original (http://www.techradar.com/u
285. "Windows 10 versions CPU limits" (https://answers.micro s/news/software/operating-systems/windows-10-goes-fr
soft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/windows-10-versions- eemium-with-paid-apps-1301155) on August 15, 2016.
cpu-limits/905c24ad-ad54-4122-b730-b9e7519c823f Retrieved August 5, 2015.
#:~:text=Windows%2010%20supports%20a%20maxim 301. "Microsoft starts showing ads for Edge browser in
um,in%20the%2064%2Dbit%20versions.&text=Was%20 Windows 10" (https://www.extremetech.com/computin
this%20reply%20helpful%3F). Community. Microsoft. g/238968-microsoft-starts-showing-ads-edge-browser-wi
Retrieved June 1, 2019. ndows-10). ExtremeTech. IDG. Retrieved March 21,
286. "Microsoft Windows 10 review: Microsoft gets it right" (h 2017.
ttps://www.cnet.com/reviews/microsoft-windows-10-revi 302. "Microsoft to 'warn' Windows 10 users not to install
ew/). Chrome or Firefox" (https://www.theverge.com/2018/9/1
287. "10 Reasons Why Windows 10 is Best OS of All Time" (ht 2/17850146/microsoft-windows-10-chrome-firefox-warni
tps://davescomputertips.com/10-reasons-why-window ng). The Verge. Retrieved September 12, 2018.
s-10-is-best-os-of-all-time/). May 21, 2018. 303. "10 Big Reasons Not to Upgrade to Windows 11" (http
288. "10 things Windows 10 does better than Windows 8" (ht s://www.pcmag.com/news/10-reasons-not-to-upgrade-t
tps://www.pcworld.com/article/428654/10-things-windo o-windows-11).
ws-10-does-better-than-windows-8.html). 304. "Windows 11 issues mean it's not worth upgrading yet,
289. "Windows 10 is seriously great" (https://money.cnn.co say experts" (https://www.techradar.com/news/window
m/2015/07/28/technology/windows-10-review/index.htm s-11-issues-mean-its-not-worth-upgrading-yet-say-exper
l). July 28, 2015. ts). October 8, 2021.
290. "Windows 10 Review" (http://www.techradar.com/review 305. "You can officially get Windows 11 on an unsupported
s/pc-mac/software/operating-systems/windows-10-1267 PC, but you shouldn't" (https://www.techadvisor.com/arti
364/review/). TechRadar. Future plc. Retrieved July 30, cle/786317/windows-11-unsupported-devices-not-worth-
2015. it.html).
291. "Windows 10 Review" (https://www.engadget.com/201 306. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide -
5/07/28/windows-10-review/). Engadget. AOL. July 28, February 2024" (https://gs.statcounter.com/windows-ver
2015. Retrieved July 30, 2015. sion-market-share/desktop/worldwide/).
292. "Review: Windows 10 is the best version yet—once the gs.statcounter.com. Archived (https://web.archive.org/w
eb/20240227115520/https://gs.statcounter.com/window
bugs get fixed" (https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2015/0
7/review-windows-10-is-the-best-version-yet-once-the-b s-version-market-share/desktop/worldwide/) from the
ugs-get-fixed/). Ars Technica. July 29, 2015. Retrieved original on February 27, 2024. Retrieved March 6, 2024.
July 31, 2015.

25 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

307. "WTF? Windows 10 now actually losing market share" (h 322. Statcounter. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share
ttps://betanews.com/2016/10/01/wtf-windows-10-losing- Oceania | StatCounter Global Stats" (https://gs.statcount
share/). October 1, 2016. "It was expected, that once er.com/windows-version-market-share/desktop/oceania/
Windows 10 stopped being free, upgrades would slow #daily-20170901-20180131). gs.statcounter.com.
significantly. [..] In September though, according to Retrieved February 6, 2018.
NetMarketShare, Windows 10 didn't just show slower 323. "Microsoft Lists Features You'll Lose When Upgrading to
growth, it actually went into reverse gear and lost usage Windows 10" (http://gadgets.ndtv.com/laptops/news/mic
share. Yes, you read that right." rosoft-lists-features-youll-lose-when-upgrading-to-windo
308. "Microsoft breakthrough as Windows 10 overtakes 7 ws-10-698973). NDTV Gadgets. New Delhi Television
globally for first time | StatCounter Global Stats" (http Limited. June 2, 2015. Retrieved June 3, 2015.
s://gs.statcounter.com/press/microsoft-breakthrough-as- 324. Warren, Tom (July 17, 2015). "Windows 10's forced
windows-10-overtakes-7-globally-for-first-time). automatic updates are a good idea" (https://www.thever
gs.statcounter.com (Press release). February 1, 2018. ge.com/2015/7/17/8987549/microsoft-windows-10-auto
Retrieved February 6, 2018. matic-updates). The Verge. Retrieved July 31, 2015.
309. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share Worldwide" (htt 325. Leonhard, Woody (July 27, 2015). "On the road to
ps://gs.statcounter.com/windows-version-market-share/d Windows 10: Nvidia driver tests KB 3073930 patch
esktop/worldwide/#monthly-201709-201906). blocker" (http://www.infoworld.com/article/2952996/micr
StatCounter Global Stats. Retrieved July 13, 2019. osoft-windows/on-the-road-to-windows-10-botched-nvidi
310. "Windows 10 – The First 24 Hours" (https://blogs.window a-driver-tests-kb-3073930-patch-blocker.html).
s.com/windowsexperience/2015/07/30/windows-10-the- InfoWorld. Retrieved July 31, 2015.
first-24-hours/). Windows Experience Blog. July 31, 326. "Windows 10 users beg Microsoft for more info on
2015. Retrieved December 17, 2015. updates" (http://www.computerworld.com/article/29837
311. "Windows 10 Now on 75 Million Devices" (https://blog 53/microsoft-windows/windows-10-users-beg-microsoft-f
s.windows.com/windowsexperience/2015/07/30/window or-more-info-on-updates.html). Computerworld. IDG.
s-10-the-first-24-hours/). Windows Experience Blog. July September 14, 2015. Retrieved September 30, 2015.
31, 2015. Retrieved December 17, 2015. 327. Warren, Tom (February 9, 2016). "Microsoft will stop
312. O'Kane, Sean (October 6, 2015). "Microsoft says there hiding what's inside Windows 10 updates" (https://ww
are 110 million devices with Windows 10" (https://www.t w.theverge.com/2016/2/9/10951228/microsoft-window
heverge.com/2015/10/6/9442377/microsoft-windows-1 s-10-update-history-site). The Verge. Vox Media.
0-download-numbers-surface-users). The Verge. Retrieved February 9, 2016.
Retrieved October 15, 2015. 328. "Windows 10 Threshold 2 Removes Some Desktop
313. "Windows 10 Now Active on over 200 Million Devices" (h Programs During Install" (http://news.softpedia.com/new
ttps://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2016/01/0 s/windows-10-threshold-2-removes-some-desktop-progr
4/windows-10-now-active-on-over-200-million-devices/). ams-during-install-496120.shtml). Softpedia. November
Windows Experience Blog. January 4, 2016. Retrieved 13, 2015. Retrieved November 19, 2015.
January 4, 2016. 329. Popa, Bogdan (November 14, 2015). "Windows 10
314. "Microsoft: Windows 10 activated on more than 200 Threshold 2 Automatically Reinstalls All Previously
million devices | ZDNet" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/ Removed Apps" (http://news.softpedia.com/news/windo
microsoft-windows-10-activated-on-more-than-200-milli ws-10-threshold-2-automatically-reinstalls-all-previously-
on-devices/). ZDNet. Retrieved January 4, 2016. removed-apps-496165.shtml). Softpedia. Retrieved
315. "Windows 10 overtakes 8.1 for first time globally" (http November 21, 2015.
s://gs.statcounter.com/press/windows-10-overtakes-81-f 330. Popa, Bogdan (September 2016). "Windows 10
or-first-time-globally). StatCounter Global Stats. Cumulative Update KB3176938 Fixes Freezing Bug in
316. "StatCounter Global Stats - Browser, OS, Search Engine Anniversary Update" (http://news.softpedia.com/news/w
including Mobile Usage Share" (https://gs.statcounter.co indows-10-cumulative-update-kb3176938-fixes-freezing-
m/). StatCounter Global Stats. bug-in-anniversary-update-507832.shtml). Retrieved
317. "StatCounter Global Stats - Browser, OS, Search Engine September 8, 2016.
including Mobile Usage Share" (https://gs.statcounter.co 331. "Windows 10 Anniversary Update keeps freezing? Here's
m/#all-os-IS-monthly-201410-201610). StatCounter how to fix the problem" (http://www.windowscentral.co
Global Stats. m/windows-10-anniversary-update-keeps-freezing-here
318. "StatCounter Global Stats - Browser, OS, Search Engine s-how-fix-problem). September 3, 2016. Retrieved
including Mobile Usage Share" (https://gs.statcounter.co September 8, 2016.
m/#desktop-os-US-weekly-201640-201649). 332. Bright, Peter (August 20, 2016). "Windows 10
StatCounter Global Stats. Anniversary Update breaks most webcams" (https://arst
echnica.com/information-technology/2016/08/window
319. Merriman, Chris (March 1, 2017). "Windows 10 loses
market share as Windows 7 fights back" (https://web.arc s-10-anniversary-update-breaks-most-webcams/). Ars
Technica. Condé Nast.
hive.org/web/20170301202154/http://www.v3.co.uk/v3-
uk/news/3005647/windows-10-loses-market-share-as-wi 333. Warren, Tom (June 2, 2017). "Microsoft accidentally
ndows-7-fights-back). V3.co.uk. Incisive Business Media released internal Windows 10 development builds" (http
Limited. Archived from the original (http://www.v3.co.uk/ s://www.theverge.com/2017/6/2/15728254/microsoft-wi
v3-uk/news/3005647/windows-10-loses-market-share-a ndows-10-development-branch-builds-release-mistake).
s-windows-7-fights-back) on March 1, 2017. Retrieved The Verge. Retrieved June 6, 2017.
June 17, 2017. 334. "A note about the unintentional release of builds today –
320. Statcounter. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share Windows Experience BlogWindows Experience Blog" (htt
Worldwide | StatCounter Global Stats" (https://gs.statco ps://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2017/06/0
unter.com/windows-version-market-share/desktop/world 1/note-unintentional-release-builds-today/#BDqet8Eolw
wide/#daily-20170601-20180205). gs.statcounter.com. hsW8cM.97). blogs.windows.com. June 1, 2017.
Retrieved February 6, 2018. Retrieved June 2, 2017.
321. Statcounter. "Desktop Windows Version Market Share 335. Keizer, Gregg. "Windows 10 Pro is a dead end for the
Africa | StatCounter Global Stats" (https://gs.statcounte enterprise, Gartner says" (https://www.computerworld.c
r.com/windows-version-market-share/desktop/africa/#da om/article/3276278/microsoft-windows/windows-10-pro-
ily-20170901-20190431). gs.statcounter.com. Retrieved is-a-dead-end-for-the-enterprise-gartner-says.html).
May 1, 2018. Computerworld. Retrieved May 31, 2018.

26 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

336. Keizer, Gregg. "Microsoft to business: Don't worry about 349. Merriman, Chris (September 10, 2015). "Microsoft is
Windows 10, consumers will test it" (https://www.compu downloading Windows 10 to your machine 'just in case' "
terworld.com/article/2878026/microsoft-to-business-don (https://web.archive.org/web/20150912152721/http://w
t-worry-about-windows-10-consumers-will-test-it.html). ww.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/2425381/microsoft-is-d
Computerworld. Retrieved November 13, 2018. ownloading-windows-10-to-your-machine-just-in-case).
337. "Microsoft to focus on Windows 10 quality after a buggy The Inquirer. Archived from the original (http://www.thei
year" (https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/13/1809098 nquirer.net/inquirer/news/2425381/microsoft-is-downloa
2/microsoft-windows-10-quality-focus-updates-2018). ding-windows-10-to-your-machine-just-in-case) on
The Verge. Retrieved November 13, 2018. September 12, 2015. Retrieved September 10, 2015.
338. "Microsoft's problem isn't how often it updates Windows 350. "Making it Easier to Upgrade to Windows 10" (http://blog
—it's how it develops it" (https://arstechnica.com/gadge s.windows.com/windowsexperience/2015/10/29/making-
ts/2018/10/microsofts-problem-isnt-shipping-windows-u it-easier-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/). October 29, 2015.
pdates-its-developing-them/). Ars Technica. Retrieved Retrieved October 29, 2015.
November 13, 2018. 351. "Microsoft planning to automatically offer Windows 10
339. Bott, Ed. "Microsoft resumes rollout of Windows 10 to existing PCs" (https://www.theverge.com/2015/10/2
version 1809, promises quality changes" (https://www.z 9/9639414/microsoft-windows-10-automatic-update-rec
dnet.com/article/microsoft-resumes-rollout-of-windows-1 ommended). The Verge. Vox Media. October 29, 2015.
0-version-1809-promises-quality-changes/). ZDNet. Retrieved October 29, 2015.
Retrieved November 13, 2018. 352. "Microsoft upgraded users to Windows 10 without their
340. "Microsoft to focus on Windows 10 quality after a buggy OK" (http://www.infoworld.com/article/3043526/microsof
year" (https://www.theverge.com/2018/11/13/1809098 t-windows/microsoft-upgraded-users-to-windows-10-wit
2/microsoft-windows-10-quality-focus-updates-2018). hout-their-ok.html). InfoWorld. IDG. March 14, 2016.
The Verge. Retrieved November 14, 2018. Retrieved March 15, 2016.
341. Keizer, Gregg (September 15, 2015). "Microsoft's 353. "Fearing forced Windows 10 upgrades, users are
decision to pre-load Windows 10 upgrade sans consent disabling critical updates instead" (http://www.pcworld.c
is ill-advised" (https://www.computerworld.com/article/2 om/article/3075729/windows/fearing-forced-windows-1
984312/microsofts-decision-to-pre-load-windows-10-upg 0-upgrades-users-are-disabling-critical-updates-at-their-
rade-sans-consent-is-ill-advised.html). Computerworld. own-risk.html). PC World. IDG. May 27, 2016. Retrieved
IDG. Retrieved May 14, 2019. June 28, 2016.
342. Leonhard, Woody (May 15, 2015). "Microsoft re-re-re- 354. Day, Matt (June 28, 2016). "Microsoft draws flak for
issues controversial Windows 10 patch KB 3035583" (htt pushing Windows 10 on PC users" (https://www.seattleti
ps://www.computerworld.com/article/2922604/microsof mes.com/business/microsoft/microsoft-draws-flak-for-pu
t-re-re-re-issues-controversial-windows-10-advertising-p shing-windows-10-on-pc-users/). Seattle Times.
atch-kb-3035583.html). Computerworld. IDG. Retrieved Retrieved May 14, 2019.
April 22, 2019. 355. Popa, Bogdan (December 23, 2016). "Microsoft Admits It
343. Leonhard, Woody (December 15, 2015). "Microsoft "Went Too Far" with Aggressive Windows 10 Updates" (h
narrows Win10 upgrade options to 'Upgrade now' or ttps://news.softpedia.com/news/microsoft-admits-it-wen
'Upgrade tonight' " (https://www.computerworld.com/arti t-too-far-with-aggressive-windows-10-updates-511245.s
cle/3015238/microsoft-narrows-win10-upgrade-options-t html). Softpedia. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
o-upgrade-now-or-upgrade-tonight.html). 356. "A lawsuit over an unwanted Windows 10 upgrade just
Computerworld. IDG. Retrieved April 22, 2019. cost Microsoft $10,000" (http://www.pcworld.com/articl
344. Bright, Peter (October 16, 2015). "Windows 10 upgrade e/3088755/windows/a-lawsuit-over-an-unwanted-windo
installing automatically on some Windows 7, 8 systems" ws-10-upgrade-just-cost-microsoft-10000.html). PC
(https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2015/1 World. IDG. June 27, 2016. Retrieved June 28, 2016.
0/windows-10-upgrade-installing-automatically-on-som 357. "Get ready for yet another change to 'Get Windows 10'
e-windows-7-8-systems/). Ars Technica. Retrieved nagware" (http://www.infoworld.com/article/3088901/mi
April 22, 2019. crosoft-windows/get-ready-for-yet-another-change-to-ge
345. Leonhard, Woody (February 24, 2016). "Get Windows 10 t-windows-10-nagware.html). InfoWorld. IDG. June 28,
patch KB 3035583 suddenly reappears on Win7/8.1 PCs" 2016. Retrieved June 28, 2016.
(https://www.computerworld.com/article/3037393/get-wi 358. "Microsoft prepares one final, full-screen Get Windows
ndows-10-nagware-patch-kb-3035583-suddenly-reappe 10 nag" (https://www.zdnet.com/article/microsoft-prepar
ars-on-win781-pcs.html). Computerworld. IDG. es-one-final-full-screen-get-windows-10-nag/). ZDNet.
Retrieved April 22, 2019. CBS Interactive. Retrieved July 2, 2016.
346. Newman, Jared (September 11, 2015). "Didn't ask for 359. Warren, Tom (March 12, 2019). "Windows 7 users to
Windows 10? Your PC may have downloaded it anyway" receive notifications from Microsoft about end of
(https://www.pcworld.com/article/2983162/didnt-ask-for- support" (https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/12/182616
windows-10-your-pc-may-have-downloaded-it-anyway.ht 99/microsoft-windows-7-notification-end-of-support).
ml). PC World. Retrieved May 14, 2019. The Verge. Retrieved March 12, 2019.
347. Leonhard, Woody (January 8, 2016). "Banishing 'Get 360. Hern, Alex (August 1, 2015). "Windows 10: Microsoft
Windows 10' nagware isn't as easy as you think" (http:// under attack over privacy" (https://www.theguardian.co
www.infoworld.com/article/3020460/microsoft-windows/ m/technology/2015/jul/31/windows-10-microsoft-faces-c
banishing-get-windows-10-nagware-isnt-as-easy-as-you- riticism-over-privacy-default-settings). The Guardian.
think.html). InfoWorld. IDG. Archived (https://web.archiv Retrieved August 1, 2015.
e.org/web/20161218134635/http://www.infoworld.com/a 361. Yeung, Ken (October 23, 2013). "Microsoft makes new
rticle/3020460/microsoft-windows/banishing-get-window ad platform SDKs available for Windows 8.1 to help
s-10-nagware-isnt-as-easy-as-you-think.html) from the Store developers monetize their apps" (https://thenextw
original on December 18, 2016. Retrieved January 12, eb.com/microsoft/2013/10/23/microsoft-makes-new-ad-
2016. platform-sdks-available-windows-8-1-help-store-develop
348. Horowitz, Michael (March 31, 2016). "Blocking Windows ers-monetize-apps/). The Next Web. Retrieved August 1,
10 with Never10" (http://www.computerworld.com/articl 2015.
e/3049996/windows-pcs/blocking-windows-10-with-neve 362. Bott, Ed (November 5, 2015). "Is Windows 10 telemetry
r10.html). Computerworld. IDG. Retrieved April 4, 2016. a threat to your personal privacy?" (https://www.zdnet.c
om/article/is-windows-10-telemetry-a-threat-to-your-per
sonal-privacy/). ZDNet. CBS Interactive. Retrieved
December 5, 2015.

27 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12
Windows 10 - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_10

363. Bright, Peter (August 9, 2015). "Windows 10's privacy 370. "Torrent Trackers ban Windows 10 over privacy
policy is the new normal" (https://arstechnica.com/infor concerns" (https://torrentfreak.com/torrent-trackers-ba
mation-technology/2015/08/windows-10s-privacy-policy- n-windows-10-over-privacy-concerns-150822/).
is-the-new-normal/). Ars Technica. Retrieved May 14, TorrentFreak. August 22, 2015. Retrieved August 23,
2019. 2015.
364. Whittaker, Zack (July 23, 2014). "Facebook, Gmail, 371. Komando, Kim (September 2, 2015). "3 Windows 10
Skype face Russia ban under 'anti-terror' plan" (https://w privacy gotchas" (https://web.archive.org/web/2015092
ww.cnet.com/news/facebook-gmail-skype-face-russia-ba 1230111/http://www.postandcourier.com/article/201509
n-under-anti-terror-plan/). CNET. CBS Interactive. 02/PC05/150909997/1052/3-windows-10-privacy-gotcha
Retrieved May 14, 2019. s). The Post and Courier. Archived from the original (htt
365. "Russian MPs back law on internet data storage" (http p://www.postandcourier.com/article/20150902/PC05/150
s://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-28173513). BBC 909997/1052/3-windows-10-privacy-gotchas) on
News. July 5, 2014. Retrieved May 13, 2019. September 21, 2015. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
366. Bott, Ed (August 27, 2015). "No, Microsoft is not spying 372. Hill, Brandon (September 29, 2019). "Microsoft Just Hid
on you with Windows 10" (https://www.zdnet.com/articl The 'Use Offline Account' Option For Installing Windows
e/no-microsoft-is-not-spying-on-you-with-windows-10/). 10, Here's Where To Find It" (https://hothardware.com/n
ZDNet. Retrieved September 4, 2015. ews/microsoft-windows-10-offline-account).
367. Gralla, Preston (September 3, 2015). "Windows 10: HotHardware. Archived (https://web.archive.org/web/20
Public enemy No. 1, or an OS like any other?" (http://ww 190930204523/https://hothardware.com/news/microsof
w.computerworld.com/article/2979745/microsoft-windo t-windows-10-offline-account) from the original on
ws/windows-10-public-enemy-no-1-or-an-os-like-any-oth September 30, 2019. Retrieved October 1, 2019.
er.html). Computerworld. Retrieved September 25, 373. Hoffman, Chris (October 2019). "Confirmed: Windows 10
2015. Setup Now Prevents Local Account Creation" (https://ww
368. Hussain, Tamoor (August 17, 2015). "Windows 10 Can w.howtogeek.com/442609/confirmed-windows-10-setup-
Find and Disable Pirated Games" (https://www.gamespo now-prevents-local-account-creation/). How-To Geek.
t.com/articles/windows-10-can-find-and-disable-pirated- Retrieved October 2, 2019.
games/1100-6429805/). GameSpot. Retrieved May 14, 374. "Windows 10: HOSTS file blocking telemetry is now
2019. flagged as a risk" (https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/n
369. Paul, Ian (August 17, 2015). "Fears of Microsoft scanning ews/microsoft/windows-10-hosts-file-blocking-telemetry-
your Windows 10 PC for pirated games are overblown" is-now-flagged-as-a-risk/). BleepingComputer. Retrieved
(http://www.pcworld.com/article/2971088/windows/fear August 4, 2020.
s-of-microsoft-scanning-your-windows-10-pc-for-pirated-
games-are-overblown.html). PC World. IDG. Retrieved
May 14, 2019.

External links
▪ Download Windows 10 (https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10) from Microsoft website
▪ Windows 10 release information (https://docs.microsoft.com/windows/release-health/release-information) from
Microsoft

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Windows_10&oldid=1224726825"

28 of 28 31/05/24, 14:12