Windows 10 EOL is less than 200 days away. Here are your options for what you can do next before time runs out
Windows 10 will reach end of life on October 14, 2025, so it’s time to start planning your upgrade, but there could be other alternatives. Here’s everything you need to know.
Windows 10’s current version, 22H2, is the last one, which means its end of life is getting closer. Once official support and updates stop, PCs running Windows 10 could be at risk. Some users will need to upgrade to Windows 11, but there will also be options to buy extended support.
- Can I use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025?
- Who can buy Extended Security Updates
- Upgrading to Windows 11
Can I use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025?
Yes, you can still use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025, but there are some important things to keep in mind:
- After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive regular security updates, which means your system will be vulnerable to new security threats over time.
- For certain users (like businesses, government organizations, and maybe some individuals), Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for a fee, so you can keep getting security patches for a while after support ends.
- Once support ends, using Windows 10 without Extended Security Updates means your system could be more exposed to viruses, malware, and other security issues, and you won't receive any fixes for bugs or software vulnerabilities.
At first, skipping system updates or support might seem like no big deal, but over time, it can make your PC more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Without those protective updates, you’ll be leaving a growing gap in your data security.
Windows 10 LTSC 2021 is a Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) version of Windows 10 designed for businesses or specialized devices, with support lasting until January 9, 2029. Meanwhile, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC, tailored for devices like point-of-sale systems, kiosks, and ATMs, will be supported until January 13, 2032.
Who can buy Extended Security Updates
Windows 10 is reaching the end of its life cycle, but support is being extended in some cases – for a price, keeping updates going for a few more years. So, while Windows 10’s EOL is coming up soon, a complete stop to support won’t happen right away.
Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 will be available for:
- Businesses and Enterprises.
- Education Institutions.
- Government Organizations.
- Possibly for Individual Users as well, but Microsoft hasn’t conferment that yet.
Microsoft will announce the availability and pricing closer to the October 2025 end-of-support date.
Upgrading to Windows 11
If you’re still on Windows 10, upgrading to Windows 11 is the best move. It’s completely free, but your PC needs to be eligible. Here’s how to check:
- Click the Start button.
- Go to Settings.
- Open Update & Security.
- Click on Windows Update.
Windows 11 needs a 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz speed and 2 or more cores. The CPU should be from Intel's 8th generation or newer, or an AMD Ryzen 2000 series or later. Your PC also needs at least 4 GB of RAM and a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card.
If your device doesn’t meet these specs, you won’t be able to upgrade to Windows 11.
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