Microsoft has announced the impending end of support for Windows 10, set for October 14, 2025. This marks the conclusion of a decade-long journey for one of the most cherished operating systems, which currently holds a commanding market share of over 58%, while its successor, Windows 11, has recently climbed to 38%. As users ponder the fate of their Windows 10 devices post-support, several options are available to navigate this transition.
What Will Happen After Windows 10 Support Ends?
Once support ceases, Windows 10 PCs will continue to function normally, yet users will no longer receive essential security updates or bug fixes. This could lead to vulnerabilities as new threats emerge. Furthermore, as time progresses, compatibility issues may arise with certain applications and services, given that Microsoft will no longer officially support the operating system.
To encourage users to transition to Windows 11, Microsoft has begun sending notifications highlighting the importance of upgrading for a more secure experience. For those who prefer to remain on Windows 10, maintaining up-to-date antivirus software and browsers could help mitigate some risks associated with unsupported software.
Notably, Google Chrome will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10, as the tech giant has not indicated any plans to discontinue support for the platform, having previously supported Chrome on Windows 7 until 2023.
Pay for Extended Security Update (ESU) to Use Windows 10 Safely
For those determined to stick with Windows 10, Microsoft offers the Extended Security Update (ESU) program, which provides critical security updates for a fee. This program is available to both businesses and consumers, allowing users to continue receiving essential updates even after the official end of support.
| Products | ESU Start Date | ESU End Date Year 1 | ESU End Date Year 2 | ESU End Date Year 3 | Type of Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 10 | November 11, 2025 | October 13, 2026 | October 12, 2027 | October 10, 2028 | Critical, Important |
Consumers can expect to pay for a one-year subscription to the ESU program, while educational institutions and businesses have different pricing structures based on the number of devices. However, it is important to note that the consumer ESU plan is limited to one year, meaning users will need to upgrade to Windows 11 by October 2026 unless further extensions are announced.
Bypass Hardware Requirements and Upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10
For users hesitant to upgrade due to Windows 11’s stringent hardware requirements, there are methods to bypass these limitations. Tools such as Rufus allow installation of Windows 11 even on unsupported systems, enabling users to enjoy the latest features without the need for new hardware.
Additionally, a Registry workaround is available for those who prefer not to use third-party applications. This flexibility offers a pathway for users to transition to a more secure operating system without the immediate need for new investments in hardware.
Switch to an Alternative OS: ChromeOS Flex or Linux Mint
If upgrading to Windows 11 proves unfeasible, alternatives such as Chrome OS Flex or Linux Mint present viable options. Chrome OS has evolved significantly, now functioning as a robust desktop operating system with support for Linux applications, allowing users to run various software seamlessly.
Linux Mint, known for its user-friendly interface reminiscent of Windows, offers a lightweight and secure environment that is free to use. With its Software Manager, users can easily install applications, providing a familiar experience for those transitioning from Windows.
Both alternatives offer users the opportunity to continue their computing tasks without the looming deadline of Windows 10’s end of support, ensuring a smooth transition into the future of operating systems.
