Windows 10 reaches end of support: what this means for you
From October 14, 2025, Microsoft stopped providing feature updates, security patches, and technical support for Windows 10. Your PC can still run Windows 10, but the risk of malware and security exploits grows as software and threat actors move on to newer platforms. If you rely on Windows daily for work, school, or personal use, it’s important to plan a transition to a supported operating system.
Upgrade to Windows 11: is your PC eligible?
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the recommended path for most users, especially as a long-term security baseline. Many PCs purchased after 2020 are likely eligible for a free upgrade, but eligibility depends on hardware and TPM 2.0 support.
Windows 11 requires:
- Processor with at least 2 cores, 1 GHz or faster
- Minimum 4 GB RAM
- Storage of 64 GB or more
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics
Note that TPM 2.0 is a hardware security feature built into many newer PCs. If your device predates the TPM 2.0 era, it may not meet the upgrade requirements.
How to check your PC’s readiness
Microsoft offers a free PC Health Check tool to help determine upgrade eligibility. Here’s how to use it:
- Download and install the PC Health Check tool from Microsoft’s official site.
- Run the tool and click “Check now” to see if your PC meets the Windows 11 requirements.
If your PC clears the test, you’ll typically see an option to upgrade to Windows 11 via Windows Update. If not, there are two practical paths: ESU or a hardware upgrade.
Extended Security Updates (ESU): what you need to know
If your PC cannot run Windows 11 but you still need continued security updates, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) as a temporary measure. ESU is not a long-term solution but a bridge to help you migrate.
Key points about ESU:
- Only eligible devices running Windows 10 version 22H2 qualify.
- Cost starts at about $30 per year and rises each year for up to three years.
- ESU provides critical security updates—no new features.
Microsoft describes ESU as a last-resort option while you migrate to Windows 11. It is designed for organizations and individuals who need more time to transition.
What if I can’t upgrade to Windows 11?
You still have options if Windows 11 isn’t feasible for your hardware:
- Upgrade the hardware: Consider a new PC or a refurbished machine that meets Windows 11 requirements.
- Extended Security Updates: Use ESU as a temporary measure while you plan a migration.
- Alternate OS: Some users switch to Linux distributions for continued security and ongoing updates.
If you stick with Windows 10 beyond its official support window, be mindful of exposure to security risks. Regular backups, updated antivirus, and cautious browsing habits can help, but they don’t replace the protection that current software updates provide.
The practical path forward
For most users, the move to Windows 11 is the simplest, safest option for ongoing security and features. If your device is eligible, use the PC Health Check tool, back up your data, and follow the upgrade prompts through Windows Update.
If your device isn’t eligible, evaluate ESU against the cost of a new PC and weigh the benefits of a computer capable of running Windows 11 with modern security features. Either way, prioritize data backups, keep software up to date, and plan a transition timeline to minimize disruption.
