If you’re among the millions still utilizing Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system, it’s essential to be aware that support for this longstanding software will officially cease on October 14, marking a decade since its initial launch. While your computer will continue to function, the absence of regular updates and security patches poses a significant risk. Should any vulnerabilities be discovered post-support, your data could be left exposed to potential threats.
Transitioning to Windows 11, which debuted in 2021, is the prudent choice. Despite this, a substantial portion of users—approximately 45 percent of Windows users globally—remain on Windows 10. For those with a licensed copy of Windows 10 and a compatible device, the upgrade to Windows 11 is available at no cost. Many consumers may find the switch seamless; for instance, I personally transitioned from Windows 10 at work to Windows 11 at home without noticing any significant differences.
Support Options for Businesses and Consumers
Organizations and government bodies often delay adopting new operating systems, leading to a reliance on outdated software. To assist these users, Microsoft is providing an additional three years of security support for Windows 10, aimed at protecting against newly identified cyber threats. However, this extended support comes at a cost— per computer for the first year, with the price doubling in subsequent years.
For individual consumers, a one-year extension can be purchased for through the Microsoft Store, or it can be obtained for free by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Earning these points is relatively straightforward for those with a free Microsoft account; simply installing the Bing web search app nets you 500 points, with additional points available for daily searches.
Alternatively, users willing to share some personal data with the cloud can receive a complimentary one-year extension by activating the Windows Backup service, which offers up to five gigabytes of free online storage.
While the upgrade to Windows 11 is generally smooth, it’s advisable to back up all data beforehand. However, if your computer predates 2018, it may not support Windows 11, as that year marked the introduction of Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) and Secure Boot technology by manufacturers. These enhancements significantly bolster security by preventing malware from loading during the boot process, and Windows 11 is designed to operate exclusively on devices equipped with these features.
To determine if your older machine is compatible, Microsoft provides a convenient program that can be downloaded and executed. Although there are methods to bypass compatibility checks for Windows 11, doing so will leave you without official tech support from Microsoft should any issues arise. If your device is indeed that old, it may be time to consider investing in a new machine altogether.
<hr class="taglinehr | borderforeground borderhalf gutter2028–mobile marginnone textalignleft width_100px”/>
