- 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.
- Most users have 3 options: upgrade to Windows 11, get a new computer with the latest version of Windows, or pay to 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 3/30/25:
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 has made it clear: Windows 10 will reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. This means no more free updates, security patches, or technical support for the operating system, which could leave your device vulnerable to security risks and software incompatibilities if no action is taken before October.
Why the End of Support Matters
When an operating system (OS) reaches the end of support, it no longer receives updates from its developer – in this case, Microsoft. These updates, which usually occur monthly, include crucial security patches, bug fixes, and improvements that help keep your system running safely and efficiently. After the end of support, any vulnerabilities and bugs will remain unpatched, leaving your computer at risk of viruses, malware, and ransomware.
Additionally, newer software and hardware may eventually become incompatible with the older OS, leading to performance issues or the inability to use modern apps and devices.
What Are Your Options?
As the end of Windows 10 support approaches, users have three primary options:
- Upgrade your existing computer to Windows 11
- Get a new computer with Windows 11
- Continue using Windows 10 until October 2026 with reduced support
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
For most users, upgrading your existing computer to Windows 11 will be the best choice assuming it’s modern enough 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 manufacturered in 2018 and newer.
You can check your computer’s upgrade eligibility by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update or running Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool, which will tell you if your computer is compatible/eligible for the free upgrade.
If your computer cannot be upgraded to Windows 11, continue 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. However, unless you like be on the bleeding edge of technology, we recommend waiting until the summer of 2025 to perform the upgrade. 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.
- 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 in the summer or early fall of 2025,
please contact us when you are ready.
Option 2: Get a new Computer with Windows 11
If your current computer is older than 2018, 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: Continue Using Windows 10 for One Year With Reduced Support
If your device doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11, for the first time ever Microsoft is offering a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to help continue protection for personal computers – at a cost of $30. Enrollment will open later in 2025. For more information see Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10.
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: Time to Plan for the Future
The end of support for Windows 10 in October 2025 is fast approaching, and while it may seem like a distant date, it’s important to plan your next steps. 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.