With the official end-of-support date for Windows 10 just over a year away, it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll do with your PCs running this operating system. It’s tempting to hope that Microsoft will extend the deadline, but the reality is that October 14, 2025, marks the end of support for Windows 10, as outlined in Microsoft’s Modern Lifecycle Policy.
Once a Windows version reaches its end-of-support date, the software continues to work, but you no longer receive security updates, non-security updates, or assisted support. This leaves you vulnerable to security exploits, which is why it’s crucial to consider your options for the future of your Windows 10 PCs.
Here are five options to consider:
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Ignore the end-of-support deadline: Continuing to run an unsupported operating system is risky, as it exposes you to potential security threats. While some believe that third-party antivirus software can protect them, relying solely on this strategy is not recommended.
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Buy a new PC: Microsoft and its partners recommend replacing unsupported hardware with a new PC. However, this may not be feasible if you rely on Windows 10 for mission-critical software.
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Ditch Windows completely: Consider replacing Windows 10 with a Linux distribution or even Google’s ChromeOS Flex if your hardware meets the compatibility requirements.
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Pay for security updates: Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, providing subscription-based security updates for up to three years. While this option comes at a cost, it ensures your Windows 10 PCs remain secure beyond the end-of-support date.
- Upgrade ‘incompatible’ hardware to Windows 11: Despite compatibility restrictions, there are ways to bypass them and upgrade your Windows 10 PC to Windows 11. By making certain configurations and following specific procedures, you can successfully transition to the latest operating system.
As the official end-of-support date approaches, it’s essential to assess your options and determine the best course of action for your Windows 10 PCs. Whether you choose to invest in extended security updates, upgrade to Windows 11, or explore alternative operating systems, being proactive about this transition is key to safeguarding your systems and data.