Q: I’m hearing that Microsoft is pulling the plug on Windows 10 later this year. What does that mean for my current Windows 10 PC, and what are my options?
A: Microsoft has announced that it will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, marking a decade since the operating system’s debut. While users can continue to operate their Windows 10 PCs post-deadline, the absence of customer support, security updates, and upgrades will leave the system vulnerable. In essence, Windows 10 will transition into a state akin to a ‘zombie operating system,’ limping along until it succumbs to malware or a significant security breach. To illustrate, consider the risks of using Windows XP today, an operating system that hasn’t received critical updates since 2019. It’s a scenario most users would prefer to avoid.
So, what options are available for Windows 10 users? Let’s explore the possibilities.
The best option: Upgrade to Windows 11
For the majority of users, upgrading to Windows 11 presents the most straightforward path forward. This new operating system is available as a complimentary upgrade for Windows 10 users who have installed the latest 22HS update and meet the minimum hardware requirements. Microsoft’s criteria are relatively modest, requiring just a 1 GHz dual-core 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. However, older PCs may struggle with security prerequisites such as Secure Boot capability and a TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), which is essential for features like biometric logins and BitLocker encryption.
If the technical jargon feels overwhelming, Microsoft’s PC Health Check app can assess your system’s readiness for Windows 11. Additionally, persistent upgrade notifications from Microsoft serve as a gentle reminder that your PC is likely compatible with the new OS. While there are workarounds available for installing Windows 11 without TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, these methods carry inherent risks and could expose your system to vulnerabilities.
Should you decide to proceed with the upgrade, expect a relatively seamless experience. The days of catastrophic upgrades that wipe entire systems are behind us. Provided you have sufficient hard drive space, the process will primarily involve watching your system reboot a few times. Nevertheless, it is prudent to back up essential data beforehand, perhaps utilizing a combination of cloud-based Microsoft OneDrive and a local hard disk for added security.
The pricey option: Buy a new PC
If your current hardware cannot support Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, it may be time to consider investing in a new PC. While tech-savvy users might find creative solutions online, such as YouTube tutorials, those approaches require a willingness to navigate complex security overrides. Fortunately, a wealth of buying guides is available to assist you in making an informed decision. Our best laptop guide outlines desirable specifications and highlights top contenders like the Dell 14 Premium and MacBook Air, the latter being an excellent opportunity to contemplate a switch from Windows to macOS. For those remaining within the Windows ecosystem, our guide features standout models such as the ASUS ZenBook S14 and the Surface Pro Copilot+ tablet.
The typical price range for new PCs hovers between 0 and ,200, but with current back-to-school promotions, capable laptops and desktops can be found for as low as 0, and sometimes even less. For those seeking high-end options, our best gaming laptop guide can provide valuable insights.
The risky option: Keep on trucking with Windows 10
While Windows 10 will not self-destruct upon the cessation of support, continuing to use an unsupported operating system poses significant risks. Without security updates, your system becomes increasingly susceptible to new vulnerabilities. A single security flaw discovered by a hacker could lead to malware infections, performance degradation, or even data breaches. Each day past October 14 heightens the risk of OS-level vulnerabilities that third-party antivirus solutions may struggle to combat. It is advisable to reconsider this approach; at the very least, consider investing in a new system to extend your options.
The procrastinator option: Pay to extend Windows 10’s security updates
If your hardware is incompatible with Windows 11, you can still delay the inevitable by opting for the Windows 10 Extended Security Update (ESU). For a nominal fee of or 1,000 Microsoft reward points, this subscription grants you access to security updates, bug fixes, and technical support until October 13, 2026. Although this extension offers only an additional year of support, it provides a valuable buffer to conduct further research on a new PC or wait for favorable sales. Notably, this marks the first instance of Microsoft offering ESU to consumers, typically reserved for corporate IT administrators seeking extended support without transitioning to a new OS.
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