Windows 10 Support Ended: What That Means for Your PC
From October 14, 2025, Microsoft stops releasing feature updates, security fixes, and technical assistance for Windows 10. Your device will still run, but the lack of ongoing security updates increases the risk of malware and exploits over time. If you rely on Windows for work, school, or daily tasks, it’s essential to plan an upgrade or a temporary workaround to keep data safe.
Should You Upgrade to Windows 11?
For many users, upgrading to Windows 11 is the recommended path. If your PC was bought around 2020 or later, it’s likely eligible for a free Windows 11 upgrade. Compatibility checks are quick and tell you if your hardware supports the new features and security enhancements.
How to Check Eligibility
Microsoft provides a simple tool to verify readiness: the PC Health Check app. Download it, run a quick scan, and you’ll see whether your device meets Windows 11’s minimum requirements. In brief, your PC should meet:
– A 2-core (or more) processor at 1 GHz or faster
– 4 GB of RAM (minimum)
– 64 GB of storage
– TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
– UEFI boot with Secure Boot capability
Note: Many older devices lack TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, which prevents a direct upgrade. If your PC falls into this category, you’ll need an alternative path.
What If Your PC Doesn’t Meet Windows 11 Requirements?
If you can’t upgrade, you still have options:
- Extended Security Updates (ESU): A paid program for Windows 10 that provides security updates for up to three years. It’s designed as a temporary bridge while you migrate to Windows 11. ESU is available only for devices running Windows 10 version 22H2 and costs about $30 per year initially, with yearly increases.
- New hardware: A fresher device may unlock Windows 11 features and future security updates more easily.
- Alternative OS: Some users switch to Linux-based systems for continued security updates and a modern experience on older hardware.
Microsoft emphasizes that ESU is a last-resort option, not a long-term solution. It provides critical security updates only and no new features, while you plan your migration timeline.
Steps to Upgrade to Windows 11
Follow these steps to transition smoothly:
- Run the PC Health Check tool to confirm eligibility.
- Back up your data: create a full system image or at least your essential files.
- Ensure drivers and essential software are compatible with Windows 11.
- Install Windows 11 via Windows Update or the official installer, following on-screen prompts.
- Reinstall or reconfigure apps and verify device security settings (including TPM and Secure Boot).
What Should You Do Next?
If you’re eligible, upgrading to Windows 11 offers ongoing security, new features, and continued support. If not, consider ESU as a temporary bridge while you plan for a more permanent upgrade, whether that means a newer PC or a switch to an alternative operating system. Regardless of the path you choose, back up your data now and stay vigilant about security as Windows 10 reaches its end of life.
