Windows 10 reaches the end of regular support
Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will exit its regular support lifecycle on October 14, 2025. From that date, feature updates will stop, and security updates will only be available under specific conditions. For users who can’t or don’t want to move to Windows 11 or another operating system right away, Microsoft offers the Extended Security Update (ESU) program to keep critical security updates flowing for a limited period.
What is ESU and when does it run?
The ESU program provides continued security patches for Windows 10 after the end of its regular support window. The ESU period runs from October 15, 2025, to October 13, 2026. This gives organizations and individual users additional time to plan a transition while keeping their systems protected against newly discovered vulnerabilities.
Cost options and how to enroll
Microsoft has introduced two ways to access ESU: a paid one-time option and a free path tied to a Microsoft account. The paid option is a one-time fee (around $30). The free option requires signing into Windows 10 with a Microsoft account (MSA) and staying signed in for the ESU period. An ESU setup assistant is expected to appear in Windows 10 settings and notifications starting in early October, helping users enroll if they choose to participate.
Should I upgrade to Windows 11 instead?
Windows 11 remains the recommended path for many users, but it comes with hardware requirements. To help decide, Microsoft’s PC Health Check app can verify whether a device meets the minimum specifications for Windows 11, including TPM 2.0, at least 4 GB of RAM, and compatible processors. If the PC Health Check indicates the device is eligible, upgrading to Windows 11 should be straightforward, provided the BIOS/firmware and storage configurations support the upgrade.
What to do if your PC isn’t eligible for Windows 11
If your device fails the Windows 11 check, several steps can improve compatibility. Enabling TPM and Secure Boot in the BIOS/UEFI firmware and ensuring UEFI boot mode (instead of Legacy) are common fixes. Some systems require converting a disk from MBR to GPT using the mbr2gpt tool, followed by a BIOS setting change and a retry of the upgrade. Always back up data before making firmware or partition changes.
What if Windows 11 upgrade isn’t offered or possible?
In some cases, the upgrade to Windows 11 may not be offered due to hardware or licensing constraints. Users may consider unofficial methods to bypass requirements. Be aware that such approaches carry security and stability risks, and Microsoft may block updates or support. If you choose to pursue these paths, back up all data and understand the potential consequences.
Alternative paths if Windows 11 isn’t an option
For those who cannot run Windows 11, adopting a different operating system can be a sensible choice. Linux distributions such as Linux Mint (Cinnamon), Zorin OS (Core), or Ubuntu offer robust security updates and broad hardware support. While the user experience will differ, many former Windows users find Linux familiar enough to switch with relative ease. If you go this route, plan for a clean installation and ensure you back up important files first.
Should you buy new hardware or opt for refurbishments?
If you decide to stay on Windows for a while longer or to move to Windows 11, a hardware upgrade or a refurbished device can be a cost-effective option. Check processor compatibility (as listed by Microsoft), ensure TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot support, and confirm RAM and storage meet the recommended specs for Windows 11 or your chosen OS. Refurbished devices often provide a favorable balance of price and reliability.
Bottom line
With regular Windows 10 support ending, ESU offers a valuable stopgap to keep systems secure while users plan a transition. Whether you opt for the free ESU path, the Windows 11 upgrade, or a move to a Linux-based system, prioritize data backups and test compatibility before making major changes. The key is to balance security, hardware readiness, and your long-term needs.
