Microsoft's long-running Windows 10 operating system is approaching its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, just five months away. Despite Windows 11 being available as a free upgrade, usage statistics show that more people still use Windows 10 than its successor. This creates a significant challenge for millions of users whose devices either don't meet Windows 11's hardware requirements or who simply prefer the older operating system.
The Reality of End-of-Support
When October 14, 2025 arrives, Windows 10 won't suddenly stop working. Your computer will continue to function as normal, but Microsoft will cease providing security updates, patches, and technical support. This creates an increasingly dangerous security environment as new exploits are discovered but never patched, leaving users vulnerable to ransomware and other cyber threats.
Beyond security concerns, third-party software developers typically abandon support for outdated operating systems. Over time, you'll likely find that newer versions of your favorite applications and games won't run on Windows 10, cutting you off from new features and important security updates for those programs as well.
Windows 10 End-of-Support Timeline:
- End-of-support date: October 14, 2025
- Current version (22H2) is the final Windows 10 version
- All editions will receive security updates until the end date
Extended Security Updates (ESU) Pricing:
- Consumer: USD $30 for one year (until October 2026)
- Education: USD $1/PC (Year 1), USD $2/PC (Year 2), USD $4/PC (Year 3)
- Business: USD $61/PC (Year 1), USD $122/PC (Year 2), USD $244/PC (Year 3)
Windows 11 Minimum Requirements:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2+ cores
- RAM: 4 GB
- Storage: 64 GB
- Display: 720p or higher
- Security: TPM 2.0, Secure Boot capability
- Special instruction sets: POPCNT and SSE 4.2 support
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11
For compatible devices, upgrading to Windows 11 represents the simplest solution. The upgrade is free and relatively straightforward. To check if your computer supports Windows 11, open Settings, navigate to Privacy and Security > Windows Update, and look for the Upgrade to Windows 11 option. If present, you can begin the upgrade process after backing up your data.
Microsoft's hardware requirements for Windows 11 include a 1-gigahertz (GHz) processor or faster, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, a 720p display or higher, and specific security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capability. Many computers sold in the last decade meet these basic specifications, but the security requirements have proven more challenging for older hardware.
Option 2: Replace Your Hardware
Microsoft's official recommendation for incompatible devices is to purchase new hardware. While this guarantees a smooth Windows 11 experience, it represents a significant expense that many users may not be prepared for, especially with potential economic uncertainties and rising computer prices.
An alternative to buying physical hardware is subscribing to Windows 365, Microsoft's cloud PC service. This allows you to connect remotely to a Windows 11 virtual PC while continuing to use your existing hardware. Windows 365 subscriptions include extended security updates for the host PC for up to three years, though this option isn't inexpensive.
Option 3: Pay for Extended Security Updates
Microsoft will continue developing security updates for Windows 10 after the end-of-support date, but they won't be free. Through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, consumers can receive an additional year of security updates for USD $30, extending support until October 2026.
Business and education customers face different pricing structures. Educational institutions can obtain updates for just USD $1 per machine for the first year, USD $2 for the second, and USD $4 for the third, extending support until October 2028. Business customers, however, will pay USD $61 for the first year, USD $122 for the second, and USD $244 for the third, totaling USD $427 for three years of continued support.
Option 4: Bypass Windows 11 Compatibility Checks
For technically inclined users, there are documented methods to bypass Windows 11's compatibility restrictions. This typically involves making registry edits and ensuring your PC is configured to use Secure Boot with the Trusted Platform Module enabled. Even older TPM 1.2 chips can work with this approach.
For even older PCs originally designed for Windows 7 or 8.1, third-party tools like Rufus (version 4.6 beta or later) can help bypass installation challenges, particularly on devices with legacy BIOS instead of UEFI firmware. However, there's no workaround for CPUs lacking support for specific instruction sets (POPCNT and SSE 4.2), which generally means Intel CPUs from before 2009 or AMD CPUs from before 2015 cannot run Windows 11 under any circumstances.
Option 5: Switch to an Alternative Operating System
For those unwilling to upgrade or pay for extended support, replacing Windows entirely becomes an option. Google's ChromeOS Flex allows you to convert compatible PCs into Chromebooks, though you'll be limited to web applications that run in the Chrome browser. Before attempting this conversion, check Google's official compatibility list and verify that the ChromeOS Flex support timeline extends beyond Windows 10's end date.
Linux distributions like Linux Mint offer another alternative that provides a more feature-complete experience while typically running well on older hardware. The transition requires some technical knowledge, but step-by-step instructions are available, and the community is generally helpful to newcomers. This option works best for users who aren't dependent on Windows-specific software.
As the October deadline approaches, users should carefully evaluate these options based on their specific needs, technical comfort level, and budget constraints. Continuing to use an unsupported operating system poses increasing security risks that shouldn't be underestimated, making some form of transition plan essential for all Windows 10 users.