Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. That means Windows 10 PCs will no longer receive security updates, software patches, bug fixes, or technical assistance. So as time goes by, your PC will become more prone to malware and hackers as they figure out how to exploit yet-undiscovered security vulnerabilities.
This is ironic because Microsoft famously promised that Windows 10 would be “the last version of Windows” back when it launched in 2015. The idea was that Windows 10 would shift to a model of continuous updates rather than major new releases. I admired them for doing this, because planned obsolescence is such a wasteful gimmick.
But apparently things changed.
In 2021, Microsoft introduced Windows 11, citing the need for a more modern, streamlined experience and better support for newer hardware and security standards. It wasn’t just a cosmetic refresh—Windows 11 brought changes to the user interface, system requirements, and performance optimizations that justified a new version.
So while the original plan was supposedly to keep Windows 10 going indefinitely, Microsoft eventually decided that a fresh start was needed. It goes to show that even tech giants sometimes pivot from their long-term strategies – unless it was all just a clever marketing ploy.
Funny thing is, not everyone was buying it. It’s been four years since the release of Windows 11, and Microsoft must be tired of waiting for users to switch over. But many still won’t make the switch – not because they don’t want to, but because they can’t. You can upgrade to Windows 11 only if your PC meets the system requirements.
If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, Microsoft recommends buying a new one. But why spend money on a new computer when your current computer works just fine? It’s like one writer for PC World said:
I’m resentful that this multibillion-dollar company is basically forcing me to buy a new computer and switch to an inferior operating system instead of working Windows 11 into a product so good and desirable that it makes me want to switch.
Don’t get me wrong. I don’t think there’s anything bad about Windows 11. It just hasn’t given me a compelling reason to upgrade. If I could freely upgrade without needing a new PC, sure, maybe I would do it. But with it coming with a real cost, I’m choosing to stick with Windows 10.
I may finally bite the bullet on a new PC that comes with Windows 11, but I’m also tempted to abandon Windows altogether in favor of ChromeOS—and if I end up doing that, Microsoft will only have itself to blame.
What “End of Support” Means
- No more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft.
- Your PC will still work, but it may become vulnerable to security risks over time.
- Some apps and services may gradually stop working or receiving updates.
What You Can Do
- You can upgrade to Windows 11 for free—but only as an upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices.
- Upgrade to Windows 11 ONLY IF your device is compatible, which many won’t be.
- If your PC isn’t eligible, you can:
- Continue using Windows 10 at your own risk.
- Buy a new device with Windows 11 pre-installed.
- Explore alternatives like Linux (if you’re tech-savvy).
Free Upgrade Details
- If your PC meets the system requirements, you can upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 at no cost.
- Microsoft delivers the upgrade through Windows Update, or you can use their Installation Assistant.
Check Compatibility First
- To get Windows 11, your PC will need the following system requirements:
- 1GHz dual-core processor
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB storage
- TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot enabled
- Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to see if your device qualifies. It’s often pre-installed, or you can download it from Microsoft’s site.
Here’s a breakdown of how to get Windows 11:
Upgrade via Windows Update
- On your Windows 10 PC:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Click “Check for updates”
- If Windows 11 is available, you’ll see an option to download and install
Use the Installation Assistant
- Visit Microsoft’s Official Download Page
- Click “Download Now” under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section.
- Run the tool and follow the prompts to upgrade your PC.
For Incompatible PCs
- Some third-party tools can bypass restrictions—though this isn’t officially supported and may risk stability or security.
- If you’re building a new PC or buying one, Windows 11 may come pre-installed—or you might need to purchase a license if you’re not upgrading from Windows 10.
