A recent visit to our “hospital” on Elm Street highlighted a common scenario: a customer arrived with a perfectly functional Dell laptop. It powered on, checked emails, and printed documents without a hitch. The only issue? It was operating on Windows 10, which lost its mainstream support from Microsoft last October.
“So what?” she remarked. “It still works.”
Indeed, she is correct. As of October 15, 2025, your Windows 10 device didn’t magically transform into a useless relic. It still boots up, browses the web, and even plays solitaire. However, the critical aspect to consider is that Microsoft has ceased patching security vulnerabilities unless specific actions are taken on your part. Imagine driving a well-functioning car that lacks airbags and has unreliable brakes; while the engine may be in top shape, the safety features are no longer there.
Understanding Your Options
So, what are your viable options? There are three primary paths to consider (the fourth option, “do nothing and hope,” is not advisable).
- Option one: Upgrade to Windows 11. This upgrade is free if your PC meets the necessary requirements. However, many machines manufactured before 2019 may not support Windows 11 due to a security chip known as TPM 2.0. Microsoft provides a complimentary “PC Health Check” app that can determine your machine’s eligibility in about 30 seconds. If your device qualifies, the upgrade process is straightforward. If it doesn’t, forcing the upgrade is possible but not recommended.
- Option two: Purchase a new or refurbished PC. While this may not be the most appealing option, if your computer is around six or seven years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Recently, we assisted a long-time customer in transitioning from a failing Windows 10 device to a refurbished Lenovo laptop running Windows 11 for under 5, which included file migration and Microsoft account setup. The process is often less daunting than anticipated, especially when handled by professionals.
- Option three: Enroll in extended security updates. Microsoft offers three methods to do this. You may qualify at no extra cost if you sync your PC settings with a Microsoft account, redeem 1,000 Microsoft rewards points, or pay a one-time fee of . This program will run until October 2027. While this option serves as a temporary solution, it is essential to remember that it is merely a stopgap; eventually, you will need to upgrade to a new PC or Windows 11.
It’s also important to be aware of potential scams. Since the October deadline, there has been an uptick in fraudulent “Microsoft” popups and phone calls, misleading individuals into believing their Windows 10 systems have “expired” and that they must pay to reactivate them or grant remote access for repairs. This is entirely false. Microsoft will never contact you unexpectedly or request remote access due to an expired operating system. If you encounter a suspicious popup with a phone number, close it immediately. If you receive a call claiming to be from Microsoft, hang up.
The simplest way to assess your situation is to click the start button, type “PC Health Check,” and download the app from Microsoft. Run it, and if it indicates that your PC can run Windows 11, you’re in luck. If it states otherwise, it’s time to start budgeting for a replacement or consider enrolling in the extended updates.
Technology doesn’t have to be intimidating; it simply needs to be current. If you’re uncertain about your PC’s status or face difficulties running the “PC Health Check” app, feel free to schedule an appointment with us, or visit your trusted computer technician. We believe in fostering healthy competition!
If your computer is still operating on Windows 10, there’s no need to panic. Just remember not to ignore the situation.
Stephen Bach is the owner and chief of surgery at The Digital Docs in Marblehead.
