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Windows 10 end of support: what it means and what to do
Windows 10 stopped getting free updates on October 14, 2025. Learn what that means, what Extended Security Updates cover, and the options to keep your PC safe.
- Windows 10
- Windows 11
Microsoft stopped providing free updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Here is what that changes in plain words, what your PC can still do, and the choices you have, from keeping Windows 10 a little longer to moving on.
Windows 10 is no longer supported for free
Microsoft says that after October 14, 2025, Windows 10 no longer receives free software updates, technical support or security fixes. Be careful with banking and sensitive email on an unprotected Windows 10 PC, and plan to move on.
Text version of this diagram
- July 29, 2015: Windows 10 released. The first version of Windows 10
- Oct 14, 2025: Free support ends. No more free updates, fixes or support
- Oct 12, 2027: Consumer ESU ends. Last date of the extended security program
What "end of support" means
Your PC does not stop working. Windows 10 still starts, and your files and programs are still there. What changed is that Microsoft no longer sends free feature updates, security fixes or technical support for it.
Security fixes matter because attackers look for flaws in Windows. Once a flaw is found and not fixed, any PC with it stays open to it. Over time, apps and websites may also stop supporting the old system. This is a slow change, not a sudden failure.
Your options
| Option | What you get | Things to know |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to Windows 11 | Full, supported Windows | Your PC must meet the requirements. Often free for eligible PCs |
| Extended Security Updates (ESU) | Critical and important security fixes only | Ends October 12, 2027. No features or technical support |
| Replace the PC | A new machine with a supported system | Costs money; move your files across first |
| Switch system | A supported alternative on the same PC | For example ChromeOS Flex; a bigger change |
| Do nothing | Nothing new | Keep the PC away from sensitive tasks |
Text version of this diagram
- Step 1: Back up your files
- Step 2: Run PC Health Check
- Question 3: Does your PC qualify for Windows 11? If yes: Upgrade to Windows 11. If no, go on to the next item.
- Step 4: Consider enrolling in ESU
- If nothing worked: Plan a replacement PC or another system.
Step 1: back up
Whatever you choose, copy your files first. See how to back up your files and make a restore point.
Step 2: see if you can upgrade to Windows 11
- Open .
- If your PC is eligible, Windows Update offers the upgrade. Otherwise, run Microsoft's PC Health Check app and select Check now. It says whether your PC can run Windows 11 and why not if it cannot.
- If it can, follow how to install or upgrade to Windows 11.
A direct upgrade needs Windows 10 version 2004 or later. If the PC does not qualify, Windows 11 system requirements: can your PC upgrade? explains why. Microsoft says installing Windows 11 on a PC that does not meet the requirements is not recommended, and that such a PC may not get updates. Do not look for ways around the checks.
Step 3: Extended Security Updates for Windows 10
ESU is Microsoft's program for home users who need more time. It gives critical and important security updates through Windows Update. It does not give new features or technical support.
- It runs until October 12, 2027. You can enroll at any time until then.
- Your PC needs Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Workstations), the latest Windows update, and a Microsoft account with administrator rights.
- There are three ways to enroll: at no cost if you sync your PC settings, by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or with a one-time payment of US$30 plus tax. One license covers up to 10 devices.
- It is not available for kiosks or for PCs joined to a work domain or managed by a work organization.
To enroll, open . If your PC qualifies, you see a link to enroll; select Enroll now and follow the prompts. Enrolling does not stop you upgrading to Windows 11 later.
Enroll only through Windows
Use the link inside Windows Update or Microsoft's own pages. Never pay a caller, pop-up or website that offers to "extend" Windows 10 for you. See how to spot tech support scams.
Step 4: if the PC cannot move on
An older PC that will not run Windows 11 can still be useful. You can replace it, or look at installing ChromeOS Flex on an old PC. Until then, keep Windows 10 up to date as far as it goes, use Windows Security, and avoid sensitive tasks on it.
Frequently asked questions
Will my PC stop working?
No. It keeps running; it no longer gets free security updates.
Is my antivirus enough?
Security software helps, but it does not replace fixes for flaws in Windows itself. Treat it as one layer.
Is the Windows 11 upgrade free?
For eligible PCs, Windows Update offers it at no charge. Do not buy an upgrade from anyone who contacts you first.
Can I still reinstall Windows 10?
Yes. Microsoft's download page still offers the tools. See how to install or upgrade Windows 10. A new install still will not get free security updates.
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Official resources used
Pages consulted while preparing this guide. Check them for the latest details.
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