Windows 10 Version 1507 Will No Longer Receive Security Updates After May Patch Tuesday
If you (or your business) for some reason are still running the initial release of the Windows 10 operating system, you might want to think about upgrading to a newer build. Windows 10 was originally launched during the summer of 2015 with version 1507. Since that time, Microsoft has introduced a number of updates including last summer’s Anniversary Update, and the Creators Update which landed last month.
Given that Windows 10 v1507 is nearly two years old, Microsoft is reminding users to either upgrade or face exile from future security updates. According to Microsoft, the initial Windows 10 release will receive its final product and security updates via this month’s Patch Tuesday, which rolls out on May 9th.
Microsoft outlines the risks of staying on v1507, writing:
If you continue to use version 1507, your computer will still work, but since you won’t continue to receive new security updates or other quality updates, it could become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Microsoft offers complimentary support to ensure your device has the latest updates installed and requires that your device be up to date before assisting with other technical support issues.
This end-of-support for Windows 10 v1507 affects the following SKUs:
- Windows 10 Home
- Windows 10 Pro
- Windows 10 Education
- Windows 10 Enterprise
The Redmond, Washington-based software giant says that this policy of dropping support for an operating system build that is less than two years old is part of a comprehensive strategy that allows Windows 10 to evolve and become stronger over time.
“With Windows 10, we introduced a new model whereby we release feature updates a few times a year, rather than holding back features for a new release every 2-3 years as in the past,” writes Microsoft. “In doing so, it's important that our customers stay current by installing feature updates as they are released.”
Last month, Microsoft committed to providing two major Windows 10 updates per year to customers. The next big update, Redstone 3, is expected to arrive in the latter half of 2017.
