Microsoft has been telling us for years that Windows 10 wasn’t going to be supported forever. That support ends today, Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025. If you’re a Windows 10 user, here’s what to do.
Windows 10 operating system logo is displayed on a laptop screen for illustration photo. Gliwice, Poland on January 23, 2022. (Photo by Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
NurPhoto via Getty Images
1. Don’t Panic
Microsoft has been crystal clear about what’s happening, “After Oct. 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11,” it said online.
But there’s no need to panic. Your PC will keep working. “Support for Windows 10 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. However, after October 14, 2025, your computer running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates. In addition, Microsoft customer service will no longer be available to provide Windows 10 technical support,” Microsoft said in a support document.
2. To Upgrade Or Not To Upgrade?
Your first option is to update to Windows 11, though that may not be a possibility if your PC isn’t up to it. Upgrading is free, if your machine is running Windows 10 version 22H2 and meets certain specifications. Microsoft says, “To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.”
3. Stick with Windows 10
What if your PC can’t run Windows 11 or, frankly, you don’t fancy it? You can stick with Windows 10, but for security’s sake, you should really enroll in the Extended Security Updates program. This will provide you with security protection right up to Oct. 13, 2026.
You can either pay a one-off fee of $30 for this, or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. The ESU program is also available free — the best option, I’d say — providing you agree to sync your PC settings.
To do this, go to Settings, then Update & Security and Windows Update. If your device meets the prerequisites, click on the link marked Enroll now and sign in with your Microsoft account.
