Windows 10 no longer receives support: here's what changes
With the end of free support for Windows 10 approaching on October 14, 2025, users are advised to take action to ensure ongoing security and technical support. Here's a guide to help you navigate the changes.
Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11, which offers extended support after October 2025. The upgrade is free for eligible Windows 10 systems that meet hardware requirements such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Check your system's compatibility before upgrading.
If upgrading to Windows 11 is not immediately possible, users can opt for the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This service provides critical security updates for an additional year until October 2026, for a fee of around $30 or via Microsoft Rewards points. Enrollment requires a Microsoft account and can be done through Windows Update settings.
For those whose hardware may not support Windows 11, Linux distributions could be a viable alternative. Linux is increasingly user-friendly and offers strong community support, making it a good choice for older systems.
It's essential to back up data before upgrading or changing operating systems to avoid any potential loss.
Microsoft strongly advises upgrading to Windows 11 to ensure ongoing protection against emerging security threats after October 2025. Users with outdated operating systems are taking a high risk with their data, comparable to Russian roulette, according to IT security expert Alexander Opel.
For older computers, Linux can be a good alternative to Windows 11. However, IT security expert Thorsten Urbanski of ESET advises all users to switch to Windows 11 immediately or choose an alternative operating system if their device cannot be updated to the latest Windows version.
A new free program called UpDownTool allows users to downgrade from Windows 11 back to Windows 10 without losing data, programs, drivers, or settings. The UpDownTool can also switch from any Windows 10 version to Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, which offers longer support.
Users who do not switch operating systems or opt for extended support risk becoming victims of cyberattacks, according to IT security expert Alexander Opel. It's crucial to act before October 14, 2025, to maintain the security of your devices and data.
[1] Linux distributions [2] Windows 11 hardware requirements [3] Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program [4] Microsoft's recommendation to upgrade to Windows 11
- To ensure ongoing technical support and meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11, users should check their system's compatibility before upgrading.
- In the absence of Windows 11 compatibility, Linux distributions could be an alternative, offering strong community support and increasing user-friendliness.
