Windows 10 will reach end of life on October 14, 2025. That will be the end of that, and users won’t be getting any more updates to the operating system, making them vulnerable to future security issues. Microsoft has made it clear: although Windows 10 is still more popular than its successor, Windows 11, there’s no plan to continue to support it. You’ve only got one year left to decide what you want to do. Here’s what you can do.
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11
If we’re talking about upgrading to a newer version of windows then it’s going to be Windows 11 for a few reasons, first off being a Vera software as a service software, it means there will be no end of life date, no matter how many years it takes to develop the next software. Upgrading will ensure necessary security, and new feature functionality, for users with compatible hardware.
If your PC doesn’t have the needed specs for Windows 11, tools like Rufus can let you sidestep these checks and install Windows 11. However, if your processor is antique, especially for a Windows 11 version 24H2 upgrade, it might not be in the cards after all.
Option 2: Pay for Extended Support
Windows 10 will receive paid extended support from Microsoft past the official end date, but at a steep price and increasing each year. Mostly, it is aimed towards businesses instead of individual people.
Or you can try 0Patch, which supplies ‘hot patches‘ to patch vulnerabilities without directly altering the Windows files. If you pay for this method, you’ll save the security of your Windows 10 installation for a bit longer, giving you some extra time to move to another solution.
Option 3: Change the New Operating System
If you can’t or don’t want to pay for upgrade or extended support, look at other operating systems. Plenty of alternatives can breathe new life into older PCs:
Linux Distros: There are great Windows replacements, especially if they’re user friendly, such as Ubuntu or Linux Mint. Secured, free and less hardware demanding.
ChromeOS Flex: Other excellent choices for a second life are this lightweight OS from Google. It is easy to use, and is perfectly suited to basic tasks like browsing and word processing.
The Countdown Has Begun
Now’s the time to plan before Windows 10’s end of life date. If you choose to upgrade, pay for support, or switch to a different OS, taking action before October 2025 will prevent the security risks that come with those OSes and can also keep your PC running smoothly.