October 14, 2025, is the day when Windows 10 support will finally end after a long decade, but what does this mean for you, your device, and your data?
What does end of support for Windows 10 mean?
In this case, the end of support means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, features, or technical support (of any kind) for Windows 10 after the October 2025 deadline.
As a result of the lifecycle coming to an end, it also means that without updates, your computer will become vulnerable to security threats, which may result in decreased performance over time.
Will my computer become vulnerable immediately?
Technically, Windows 10 is expected to receive the last security updates on October 14, 2025, meaning that you may continue to use your computer as you would normally do without significant risks (for a brief period).
Theoretically speaking, you can continue to use the system and its features for as long as you want. However, it’s not recommended as time goes on, new security vulnerabilities will appear, and malicious individuals will try to exploit them.
In addition, given Windows 10’s dominant market share (over 60 percent, according to Statcounter), malicious actors will continue to prioritize finding and exploiting its vulnerabilities, as the potential payoff remains significant.
Also, you may start encountering driver issues, and the chances of this happening will increase if you try to connect new hardware or peripherals to the computer.
Furthermore, the company has already confirmed it’ll also retire support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 devices. While you will still be able to launch and use apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, they will no longer receive updates, which will likely lead to degraded performance and reliability over time.
Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?
Microsoft’s decision to retire this version of the operating system aligns with its standard lifecycle policy, which provides a decade of support for Windows—five years of mainstream support followed by five years of extended support.
One of the key reasons for ending support is to allow the company to focus its resources on newer technologies and innovations. By encouraging users to transition to Windows 11, Microsoft aims to deliver enhanced security, improved performance, and access to the latest features. Supporting outdated systems diverts valuable resources from the development and maintenance of current and future platforms.
Windows 10, originally released on July 29, 2015, received its last major update in May 2020. This means that even if you’re running the latest version of the operating system today, the core platform is nearly half a decade old.
In contrast, Windows 11, which debuted on October 5, 2021, has already received three major updates, making it significantly more advanced than its predecessor.
What are the options for my Windows 10 PC?
If you’re still on Windows 10, you have different options, from upgrading to a new version, switching to another platform, paying for additional support to keep the same device for a little longer, and getting a new computer (if the hardware is due for an upgrade).
You could technically continue using this version using the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) 2021, which will continue to be supported until 2032, or Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC, which will be supported until 2027. However, these versions aren’t available for purchase by regular consumers as it’s a product for organizations. Also, it’s recovered for thin clients, medical devices, point-of-sale systems, banking devices, and other devices alike.
Upgrade to Windows 11
The easiest way to maintain the support and continuity of updates is to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This approach is free since the Windows 10 product key works on Windows 11.
However, Windows 11 has higher hardware requirements than Windows 10, and even though many devices will meet the minimum specs, a lot of computers won’t be able to upgrade.
If your computer has a supported processor, enough memory, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and Secure Boot, you can upgrade through the Windows Update settings, Installation Assistant, or mounting the Windows 11 ISO file to launch the setup.
Upgrade unsupported hardware
If your computer isn’t compatible, you can still upgrade it by bypassing the system requirements. However, you have to consider that your computer will be in an unsupported state.
Using the operating system in an unsupported state means that the device will receive security updates and new features, but they won’t be guaranteed to work. Also, you won’t have access to Microsoft support (though I doubt you ever called the company for support).
Upgrade to Linux Mint
If your device doesn’t meet the minimum hardware specifications to run Windows 11 and you don’t want to bypass the requirements to run the operating system in an unsupported state, then another option is to switch to another platform, such as Linux Mint.
Although there are many different flavors of Linux, the one that usually stands out is Linux Mint. This is because it’s not only free and open source but also because of the familiar user interface that minimizes the learning curve for users coming from Windows 10.
In addition, Linux Mint features a straightforward installation process and a comprehensive suite of pre-installed open-source apps. Its active community provides robust support, making it an accessible choice for beginners and experienced users. Additionally, this operating system is less resource-intensive than Windows 10, potentially improving the performance of older hardware.
Upgrade to ChromeOS Flex
Another option is to install ChromeOS Flex on your Windows 10 computer, which is a lightweight operating system variant of Google ChromeOS.
It’s based on Linux and uses web apps and the Chrome browser as the main interface.
The operating system also provides security protection from threats such as malware and ransomware. Furthermore, it provides a fast and modern work environment with background updates.
Since this is a lightweight operating system, it only requires an Intel or AMD x86-64-bit processor, 4GB of memory, and 16GB of storage. However, it’s recommended to use a processor and graphics card made after 2010.
Pay to extend Windows 10 support
For individuals unable to transition before the end-of-support date, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10.
This service has always been reserved for organizations that need to run older operating systems beyond the official support period, but it’s now available for regular consumers.
This program provides critical security updates beyond the official end-of-support date, allowing more time to plan and implement a transition to a supported operating system.
If you choose this option, consider that your device won’t get new features, design changes, or general support. This program only offers security updates to keep your computer secure and supported.
While the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program will be available for three additional years for organizations, the company will only be offering it for one year for regular consumers. The price of this services is $30.
For more details, check the official Extended Security Updates (ESU) program page.
Buy a new computer
If you’re in the market for a new computer, this approach will ensure compatibility with Windows 11 and provide access to the latest features and security updates.
The computer that’s right for you will depend on how you use it and your budget.
If you only do basic tasks like streaming videos, managing emails, or using office apps, you don’t need to spend a fortune. Computers for everyday use often start around $500. While you might find cheaper options, I don’t recommend them since they usually come with outdated hardware or very low specs.
If you’re interested in a Copilot+ PC for AI capabilities and extended battery life, prices typically start at around $800. However, deals can bring the cost down significantly (if you find them).
If you want a premium device, one option is the Surface Pro 11, which starts at less than $900 and is available at the Microsoft Store. To explore more deals on Copilot+ PCs, visit the Microsoft Store’s deals page.
What are your plans for your Windows 10 computer? Let me know in the comments.
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