- Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, there will be no more free updates*, security patches, or technical support available from Microsoft – unless you take action.
- Most users have 3 options: upgrade to Windows 11, get a new computer with Windows 11, or extend Windows 10 security updates until October 2026.
- Upgrading to Windows 11 is recommended for most users for its advanced security, improved performance, and new features.
Updated 9/16/25:
As Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system approaches the end of its lifecycle, it’s essential for users to prepare for the changes and take steps to transition smoothly. Microsoft’s official announcement in 2021 made it clear: the end of Windows 10 mainstream support is October 14, 2025. This means no more fixes or technical support will be available from Microsoft after that date. However, earlier in 2025 they announced for the first-time ever an Extended Security Updates program for personal computers using Windows 10 that will extend security updates for Windows 10 for an additional year – until October 13, 2026.
What Are Your Options?
If you haven’t already taken action, it’s time to do so now. Windows 10 users have three primary options:
- Upgrade your existing computer to Windows 11 for free
- Get a new computer with Windows 11
- Enroll in the Extended Security Updates program for free to Continue using Windows 10 until October 2026
Let’s explore these options and why ultimately upgrading to Windows 11 is probably your best choice.
Option 1: Upgrade your existing computer to Windows 11
Upgrading your existing computer from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is the least extensive option (free) assuming it’s modern enough, has a Solid State Drive and meets the minimum system requirements . Launched in October 2021, Windows 11 offers a modernized user experience with new features, better security, and enhanced performance. Here’s what you should know about the transition.
Why Upgrade to Windows 11?
Security Features
- Windows 11 is built with advanced security at its core. It includes features like hardware-based security (TPM 2.0) and virtualization-based security, which help protect the operating system against modern viruses and malware. It also includes device encryption of the operating system storage drive when signed into a Microsoft account, protecting your data from unauthorized access. Since Windows 11 will continue receiving updates and security patches from Microsoft, your system will stay protected against the latest vulnerabilities. Even though Windows 11 is more secure than Windows 10, safe computing habits is your first line of defense keeping you and your devices safe and secure.
Improved Performance
- Windows 11 offers performance enhancements, especially on newer hardware, thanks to optimizations in resource allocation, memory management, and power efficiency. This leads to a smoother experience for both work and gaming.
New and Updated Features
- The OS introduces new features like the Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, allowing users to organize their open windows more efficiently. A revamped Start Menu, updated aesthetics with rounded corners and new themes, and the re-introduction of widgets for real-time information make Windows 11 feel modern and intuitive. Artificial Intelligence features help with finding things, editing and getting things done.
Can Your Current PC Run Windows 11?
Before upgrading, it’s important to determine whether your current Windows PC meets the minimum system requirements to be eligible for the free upgrade to Windows 11. In most cases Windows 11 will work on Intel 8th Generation or AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer processors, which is most computers manufactured in 2018 and newer.
You can check your computer’s upgrade eligibility in 2 different ways.
- Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. You should see an offer to upgrade to Windows 11, or “Check hardware requirements.”
- Run Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool – which should be in your Start menu, otherwise downloadable from this link – which will tell you if your computer is compatible/eligible for the free upgrade.
If your computer cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, skip to Option 2 or 3 below.
How to Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC is compatible, upgrading to Windows 11 may take about an hour or more. If you prefer to do the upgrade yourself, here’s a quick guide:
- Back up your data: Before upgrading, ensure all your important files are backed up either to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Check for Updates: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and check if the Windows 11 upgrade is available for your device.
- If Windows 11 isn’t offered in the previous step, download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant here.
- Follow the On-Screen Instructions: If eligible, you’ll receive a prompt to download and install Windows 11. The process takes some time, and your computer will restart multiple times before the upgrade is complete.
If you’d like us to do the upgrade for you please contact us when you are ready.
Option 2: Get a new Computer with Windows 11
If your current computer is older than 2019, doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11 and/or doesn’t have a modern Solid-State Drive (SSD) used for storage – we typically recommend getting a new computer with Windows 11.
See our new computer recommendations page for comprehensive details about getting a new computer with Windows 11, and how we can help with the transition to a new computer.
Option 3: Enroll in the Extended Security Updates program for free to continue using Windows 10 until October 2026 with reduced support
up-to an additional year past October 2025.
* If your device doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11, for the first time ever Microsoft is offering up-to one year (until October 2026) of extended security updates for free or low-cost to help continue protection for personal computers. For more information see the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. If you need help with extending Windows 10 on your computer, Contact Computer Techs.
Don’t panic! Even though mainstream support for Windows 10 ends October 14, 2025, the operating system will still continue to function, and home users still have some time left to enroll in the Extended Security Updates program. The first security update under the program will likely be released November 11, 2025 and continue on the 2nd Tuesday of every month until October 2026.
What if you do nothing?
Some users may be tempted to do nothing and stick with Windows 10 even after its support ends. While this may seem like a short-term solution, there are significant risks involved:
- Security vulnerabilities: Your system will no longer receive crucial security updates, leaving it susceptible to malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.
- Software and hardware incompatibility: Over time, newer software and hardware devices may not work properly or be supported on an outdated OS.
- No technical support: Microsoft will no longer offer assistance or troubleshooting for any issues that arise on Windows 10. However, Computer Techs will continue to provide technical support to the best of our ability though software bugs are out of our control.
The decision to do nothing and stay on Windows 10 (or older versions of Windows) is only advisable for users who are comfortable with the potential risks of using an insecure operating system, and are using Windows offline for things such as playing games, or for using documents and spreadsheets. However, even these protections can only do so much if the operating system itself is no longer secure.
Conclusion: It’s time to Plan for the Future
The end of mainstream support for Windows 10 in October 2025 is upon us. Whether you choose to upgrade to Windows 11 or stick with Windows 10 for as long as possible, staying informed and prepared will ensure your system remains secure and functional. Upgrading to Windows 11 is highly recommended for the vast majority of users, offering enhanced security, better performance, and support for the latest hardware and software technologies.
We are here to help. Contact Computer Techs if you’d like help deciding on the best upgrade option for you, and implementing your move to the newest version of the Windows operating system.