As the countdown to the end of support for Windows 10 approaches, users are faced with critical decisions regarding their PCs. With the official end-of-support date set for October 14, 2025, Microsoft has made it clear that all editions of Windows 10 will cease to receive technical support and security updates. This announcement is documented in Microsoft’s Modern Lifecycle Policy, which outlines the implications for users who remain on this operating system.
Once the end-of-support date arrives, Windows 10 will continue to function, but it will no longer receive updates, leaving users vulnerable to potential security risks. The absence of new security updates or technical assistance means that those relying on Windows 10 must consider their options carefully. Here are five viable paths to consider:
1. Ignore the end-of-support deadline completely
Choosing to continue using Windows 10 without any updates is certainly an option, though it comes with significant risks. While some users believe that third-party antivirus solutions can safeguard their systems, this approach may not be reliable. For those determined to stick with Windows 10, installing the third-party 0patch agent could provide limited protection against known vulnerabilities, albeit at a cost for comprehensive coverage.
2. Buy a new PC (or rent a virtual PC)
Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to new hardware, and the market offers a variety of enticing options, from cutting-edge Copilot+ PCs to high-performance gaming machines. However, for those who rely on specific software that is incompatible with Windows 11, this may not be a feasible solution. Alternatively, Windows 365 allows users to access a virtual Windows 11 PC in the cloud, providing a temporary solution with extended security updates for existing hardware.
3. Ditch Windows completely
For tech-savvy users, replacing Windows 10 with a Linux distribution could be an appealing option. However, this transition requires a certain level of expertise and may not be practical for all users. Another alternative is Google’s ChromeOS Flex, though compatibility issues may arise, necessitating careful consideration of hardware requirements and support timelines.
4. Pay Microsoft for security updates
In a surprising move, Microsoft announced that it will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, albeit at a cost. Educational institutions may benefit from a significantly reduced rate, while business customers face a steep price increase over the three-year subscription period. Consumers can opt for a one-year extension of security updates for a modest fee, but this option ultimately leads back to unsupported status after the year ends.
5. Upgrade your ‘incompatible’ hardware to Windows 11
Despite the compatibility checker’s restrictions, there are documented methods to upgrade incompatible Windows 10 PCs to Windows 11. By making specific registry edits and ensuring the correct hardware configurations, users can bypass some of the limitations. For those willing to undertake a clean installation, tools like Rufus can facilitate the process, allowing users to create a bootable installation drive that circumvents compatibility checks.
As the deadline looms, users must weigh their options carefully, considering both the immediate and long-term implications of their choices. Whether opting to upgrade, transition to a new operating system, or continue with an unsupported version, each path carries its own set of challenges and opportunities.
