Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, it will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support.

End of support means Microsoft will stop providing free security patches, software updates, and technical help for Windows 10. Your system will still function, but it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats.

Yes, your PC will continue to run Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. However, it is not recommended due to security risks from unpatched vulnerabilities.

• Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC is compatible)
• Buy a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed
• Enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) for continued support (for a fee)

The Extended Security Updates program is a paid service that provides critical security updates for Windows 10 beyond the end-of-life date. It’s available for both businesses and individual users. This is not intended as a long-term solution, but as a temporary solution for users to remain secure until they are able to migrate to a newer, supported platform. points).

Updates (ESUs) to help bridge the gap for users not yet ready to upgrade. For commercial users, the ESUs are part of a paid program that allows businesses to receive critical security updates for Windows 10 devices beyond the EOS date. These are typically managed through a volume licensing agreement or via Microsoft 365 subscriptions, and they are designed for organizations with complex IT environments that require more time for migration.

For consumers, Microsoft will not offer ESUs directly. Once EOS hits, personal Windows 10 devices will stop receiving security updates unless upgraded to Windows 11. This means individuals will either need to upgrade their operating system or accept increased risk from unpatched vulnerabilities. The extended service option is essentially unavailable for home users unless their device is eligible for Windows 11 and they upgrade before the deadline.

If you're managing devices for a business or organization, especially those with legacy software, complex deployment environments, or compliance requirements, enrolling in the Extended Security Updates program makes sense. It gives you more time to plan a transition to Windows 11 while maintaining security coverage. For consumers, the best path forward is upgrading to Windows 11 before the support deadline. If your device doesn’t meet Windows 11’s system requirements, you’ll need to consider replacing the hardware or accepting the risks of running an unsupported OS. There is no consumer equivalent to the ESU program, so acting early is key to staying secure.

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and run the PC Health Check Tool to see if your device meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.

Most apps and files will remain intact during the upgrade, but it’s always a good idea to back up your data before upgrading. If you need assistance backing up your data, visit your local Micro Center.

Yes, but only within 10 days of upgrading. After that, you'll need to do a clean installation of Windows 10 (which won’t be supported after 2025).

Risks include increased exposure to malware and ransomware, compatibility issues with newer software, and compliance challenges for businesses handling sensitive data.

Yes, you can still activate and reinstall Windows 10, but you won’t receive updates or support.