Windows 10 reached end of life in October 2025. Microsoft has stopped releasing security updates for it, meaning any new vulnerability discovered is permanently unpatched. If you are still running Windows 10, here is what that means and what you should do.
What End of Life Means for Windows 10
End of life means Microsoft no longer releases security patches, bug fixes, or feature updates for Windows 10. The operating system still works — your PC will not stop functioning — but every new security vulnerability discovered after October 2025 remains permanently unpatched.
In practical terms: cybercriminals know which vulnerabilities exist, and they know Windows 10 machines will never be fixed. Over time, Windows 10 becomes an increasingly attractive target.
How Many People Are Still on Windows 10?
Despite the end-of-life date, Windows 10 still powers a significant portion of PCs worldwide. Many businesses and home users have not yet upgraded — either due to hardware incompatibility, cost concerns, or simply not prioritising it.
Your Options
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (Recommended)
Windows 11 is the straightforward upgrade path and is free for eligible Windows 10 devices. Before upgrading, check compatibility:
- Download and run the PC Health Check app from Microsoft
- If your PC passes, go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates
- Windows 11 should appear as an available upgrade
Key Windows 11 requirements: 64-bit processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot. Most PCs made after 2018 meet these requirements.
Option 2: Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 for an annual fee. This extends security patch support but does not add new features. Pricing is per device and increases each year — primarily designed for businesses that cannot immediately migrate.
For home users, ESU is available but the cost is hard to justify compared to a free Windows 11 upgrade or buying new hardware.
Option 3: Replace Your Hardware
If your PC fails the Windows 11 compatibility check (most commonly due to no TPM 2.0), it may be time to consider new hardware. A PC that cannot run Windows 11 is typically 6+ years old and will have other performance and reliability issues.
Option 4: Switch to Linux
For older hardware that cannot run Windows 11, Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Linux Mint are free and actively maintained. They run well on older machines and receive regular security updates. This is a valid option for users comfortable with a different operating system.
What Should You Not Do?
- Do not continue using Windows 10 unprotected indefinitely. The risk increases over time as unpatched vulnerabilities accumulate.
- Do not rely on third-party antivirus to fully compensate. Antivirus cannot patch OS-level vulnerabilities.
- Do not ignore it. October 2025 has passed — if you are still on Windows 10, act now.
How to Check Your Windows Version
# Press Windows + R, type:
winverThis shows your Windows version and build number. Windows 10 versions show as 10.x; Windows 11 shows as 11.x.
