14 DAY TRIAL // Today’s Patch Tuesday cycle marks not only the release of new security fixes and cumulative updates for Windows 10, but also the day when Microsoft ships the last updates for a Windows 10 version before giving up on it completely.
Windows 10 version 1511 (also known as November Update) is thus getting the ax, with Microsoft’s Windows Lifecycle Fact Sheet page confirming that end of support for this particular release takes place on October 10.
This means that users who are still running it need to update to a newer version of Windows 10, such as the Anniversary Update or the Creators Update, to continue receiving updates on their systems. Microsoft will continue shipping patches for version 1511 to enterprises depending on their support channels, but consumers need to update to newer Windows as soon as possible.
Small market share for Windows 10 version 1511
The chances are that only a few people are still on the November Update, as Microsoft has already released two newer versions of Windows 10 and is now getting ready to release the third – the Fall Creators Update lands on October 17, but it’ll take a while until everyone receives the new bits.
“Windows 10 was designed as a service, whereby feature updates are required a couple times a year. For most consumers, both quality and feature updates are delivered automatically according to their Windows Update settings,” Microsoft explains.
The Creators Update rollout has already completed in the summer, which means that all users should be able to download the new version of Windows 10 should they want to upgrade.
It goes without saying that the latest version comes with all the bells and whistles, so unless you’re in an enterprise network where app compatibility and other services could be affected, it’s recommended to install the Anniversary Update or the Creators Update as soon as possible.