Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. To give home users more time, it offered a consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that delivered security patches through October 13, 2026. With that date passed, Windows 10 home PCs no longer receive security updates.
Key Takeaways
- Windows 10 PCs still work, but without security updates they are increasingly exposed to new vulnerabilities.
- Many PCs from roughly 2018 onward can upgrade to Windows 11 for free if they meet the hardware requirements.
- Use the PC Health Check app to see if your computer is eligible.
- Older PCs can be replaced, used offline or switched to another operating system.
What “end of support” means
Your computer keeps running. You can still open files and use apps. But Microsoft no longer fixes newly discovered security flaws for consumer Windows 10 PCs, and many software makers gradually drop support for older systems. Microsoft has said it would continue some Microsoft Defender security intelligence updates for a period, but that is not a substitute for operating system patches.
Check whether you can upgrade to Windows 11
Windows 11 requirements include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, UEFI with Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0. Many PCs bought in the last several years meet them.
- Download Microsoft’s PC Health Check app.
- Run the check.
- If eligible, go to Settings, then Windows Update, and look for the Windows 11 upgrade.
The upgrade is free for eligible Windows 10 PCs.
Back up first
Before upgrading, back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage. Make sure you know your Microsoft account password and have product keys for any paid software.
If your PC is not eligible
- Replace it. Consider a new or refurbished Windows 11 PC, a Mac or a Chromebook, depending on your needs. Recycle the old one properly after wiping it.
- Use it offline for tasks that do not require internet access.
- Switch operating systems. ChromeOS Flex and Linux distributions can run on many older PCs. This suits people comfortable with some technical setup.
Microsoft does not recommend installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, and such PCs may not receive updates.
Businesses
Business ESU is a paid program available for up to three years after end of support, with prices rising each year.
Staying safer on Windows 10 in the meantime
If you must keep using an unsupported PC briefly:
- Keep your browser and apps updated as long as they support Windows 10.
- Use reputable security software.
- Avoid opening unexpected attachments and links.
- Do not use it for banking or sensitive tasks if you can avoid it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my Windows 10 PC stop working? No. It will keep running, but without new security updates.
Is Windows 11 free? For eligible Windows 10 PCs, yes.
How do I safely dispose of an old PC? Back up your files, sign out of accounts, reset the PC to remove personal data and use an electronics recycling programme.
The bottom line
Check whether your PC can run Windows 11, back up and upgrade if it can, and plan a replacement or alternative if it cannot.
