As we approach the pivotal date of October 14, 2025, the countdown to the end of support for Windows 10 stands at 56 days. This transition is not unexpected; Microsoft has consistently adhered to a ten-year support lifecycle for its operating systems, a trend that has been evident with previous versions as well.
For those still navigating the waters of Windows 10, there’s no immediate cause for alarm. The time remains to explore your options and determine the best path forward. However, for the few who are still using versions older than Windows 10, your loyalty is commendable, though the prospect of upgrading may be inevitable.
Option 1 (best): Upgrade to Windows 11
While Windows 10 will not cease to function post-support, users will lose access to crucial security updates and customer support. The most favorable route for many is to upgrade to Windows 11, which is typically a free upgrade for eligible systems. To qualify, your device should have:
- A 1GHz (or faster) 64-bit CPU with two or more cores
- 4GB of RAM
- At least 64GB of storage
- An HD display (720p) larger than 9 inches
A potential hurdle for older machines is the requirement for Secure Boot and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. For those uncertain about their system specifications, Microsoft’s PC Health Check app provides a straightforward way to assess compatibility.
Additionally, an unofficial tool called ‘WhyNotWin11’ is available on GitHub for users who encounter issues with the official app, offering deeper insights into compatibility challenges.
Option 2 (expensive): Buy a new PC
If your current hardware falls short of the TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot criteria, purchasing a new computer emerges as the simplest, albeit costliest, solution. While tech-savvy users may discover workarounds to install Windows 11 on unsupported devices, this approach can lead to complications and is generally not advisable.
Investing in a new laptop solely for Windows 11 may seem daunting, especially if Windows 10 continues to meet your needs. However, it’s worth noting that Windows 11 shares many similarities with its predecessor, and a wealth of resources is available online to ease the transition.
Option 3 (lazy): Extend Windows 10 updates for a year
For those whose hardware is incompatible with an upgrade, the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers a way to extend support for Windows 10. The simplest method for individuals is to enable Windows Backup, allowing you to sync your folders and settings to the cloud, provided you have sufficient OneDrive storage.
Keep an eye out for the ESU enrollment wizard in your Windows notifications or settings to ensure Microsoft recognizes your intention to continue using Windows 10 until October 13, 2026. This option grants you additional time to strategize your upgrade or save for a new device.
Option 4 (risky): Do nothing
While your Windows 10 PC will remain operational beyond October 14, the absence of updates could expose you to risks. Initially, you may not notice any changes, enjoying the absence of update interruptions. However, this complacency could lead to vulnerabilities, making your system susceptible to malicious attacks.
Once a security flaw is exploited, your device could be compromised, potentially leading to unwanted consequences. In this scenario, even the ESU option would be a safer bet.
Option 5 (adventurous): Try something new
If the aforementioned options do not resonate with you, perhaps it’s time to explore alternative operating systems. Apple’s computers may appeal to some, but it’s essential to remember that Apple also phases out support for older macOS versions after a few years.
Alternatively, if your hardware is outdated, Linux could breathe new life into your machine. While the idea of installing Linux may seem straightforward, the selection of the right distribution can be daunting. Resources are available to guide you through this process, but be prepared for a learning curve.
