Windows 10 reaches end of life in 2025 — and upgrading to Windows 11 is easier than you think

The end of life (EoL) for Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, marking a significant transition for users as Microsoft will cease maintenance, security updates, and technical support following this date. For those considering an upgrade to Windows 11 to ensure continued updates, a straightforward guide is available to navigate the process seamlessly.

If your device is currently running Windows 10 version 22H2 with the latest updates installed and properly activated, you can take advantage of a complimentary in-place upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2. Initially, your system will upgrade to the next supported version, which is 24H2, as version 23H2 will reach its end of support in November 2025. Subsequently, you will need to initiate the installation of the latest version through the Windows Update settings.

In cases where your computer encounters issues with the Windows Update settings, the Installation Assistant serves as an alternative method to facilitate the upgrade process. This tool allows for an in-place upgrade while retaining your files and applications.

Important: Prior to commencing the upgrade, it is highly advisable to create a complete backup of your current setup. This precaution ensures that you can revert to the previous version if any complications arise during the upgrade.

How to upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2 using Windows Update

To upgrade your computer from Windows 10 to the latest version of the operating system, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings on Windows 10.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Select Windows Update.
  4. Click the Check for updates button.
  5. Click the “Download and install” button.
  6. Click the Restart now button.
  7. Open Settings on Windows 11.
  8. Select Windows Update.
  9. Click the Check for updates button.
  10. Click the “Download and install” button.
  11. Click the Restart now button.

Upon completing these steps, your computer will upgrade to Windows 11 version 24H2, followed by the installation of the enablement package (eKB) to transition to version 25H2.

How to upgrade to Windows 11 version 25H2 using Installation Assistant

To utilize the Installation Assistant tool for upgrading to the Windows 11 2025 Update, adhere to the following steps:

  1. Visit the Microsoft support website.
  2. Click the Download Now button under the “Windows 11 Installation Assistant” section.
  3. Double-click the Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe file to launch the tool.
  4. Click the Accept and install button.

Once these steps are completed, the utility will download the necessary files and install the new version of Windows 11, ensuring that your files, settings, and applications remain intact.

FAQs about upgrading to Windows 11

This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding the upgrade process from Windows 10 version 22H2 to Windows 11 version 25H2.

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When will Windows 10 reach the end of support?

Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will discontinue security updates, bug fixes, and technical support for all consumer editions of the operating system.

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Can I still upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free?

Yes, you can upgrade for free, but it is recommended to use the PC Health Check app to verify compatibility before proceeding with the upgrade.

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What happens if my computer doesn’t meet the Windows 11 requirements?

If your computer does not meet the requirements, you may enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of updates.

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How long will Windows 11 version 25H2 be supported?

The support duration for Windows 11 version 25H2 will be determined by Microsoft’s ongoing support policies.

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Windows 10 reaches end of life in 2025 — and upgrading to Windows 11 is easier than you think