The clock has started click for Windows 10 users . Microsoft has announced the official close of support for Windows 10 on October 14 , 2025 . After this date , your system will no longer incur devoid certificate updates , leaving your system vulnerable to certificate risk of exposure . Microsoft has also introduced a paid Extended Security Updates ( ESU ) program , allow users to continue receiving security updates for one class .
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Why is Microsoft Ending Support for Windows 10?
Microsoft ’s conclusion to cease financial support for Windows 10 is due to several factor :
Do you know ? As of December 2024,Statcounterreports that 62.73 % of Windows drug user are still using Windows 10 . Whereas , only 34.1 % of substance abuser have upgraded to the Windows 11 .
When Does Windows 10 Support End?
The prescribed goal - of - support date for Windows 10 Home , Pro , Pro Education , and Pro for Workstations editions is October 14 , 2025 . After this date , Microsoft will no longer provide loose security update , non - security update , or assisted support options .
This apply to the belated version , 22H2 , as of December 2024 . Newer versions may be release with dissimilar oddment - of - support dates . If you have a previous translation , its living might terminate before .
Security threats are constantly germinate , and without regular updates , Windows 10 systems will become progressively vulnerable to new exploits . you may still habituate antiviruses and other security measure to avoid risk , but upgrading to Windows 11 is a good selection .
What Happens if You Do and Don’t Upgrade?
Upgrading to Windows 11 offers several advantage :
While Windows 11 has acquaint new feature and improvement , it also has stricter hardware requirements , including TPM 2.0 and specific processors , which have prevented some users from upgrade . However , many of the other performance topic and bugs have been address in updates .
If you choose not to promote , your Windows 10 organization will no longer meet free security updates after October 14 , 2025 . Thisleaves your computer vulnerable to malware , viruses , and other cyberattacks , potentially exposing your data and personal information .
You might also miss out on crucial security updates for web browsers and other applications . While you’re able to technically continue using Windows 10 , doing so without purchasing Extended Security Updates ( ESUs ) carries significant and increase risk .
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Continuing Windows 10 Without Buying ESU: Costs and Consequences
If you prefer to remain on Windows 10 after support cease on October 14 , 2025 , you have two options : purchase Extended Security Updates ( ESU ) or continue using Windows 10 without any further update from Microsoft .
1. Extended Security Updates (ESU)
The ESU program allows you to continue get vital surety updates for a fee . This helps protect your system from newly discovered vulnerabilities . The current toll for item-by-item user is $ 30 per class , though this may change . ESU is also uncommitted for businesses and organizations . It ’s important to note thatESU only let in security update , not new features , non - security hemipteran fix , or technical bread and butter from Microsoft .
2. Continuing Without Updates
If you choose not to purchase ESU , your Windows 10 organization will no longer receive security measure update , making it significantly more susceptible to malware , virus , and other cyberattacks . Even with antivirus software , your system remains vulnerable without the latest security measure patches . While your computer wo n’t suddenly stop working , the risks to your security and privacy will grow over metre .
Is the Windows 11 Upgrade Still Free?
Yes , the upgrade to Windows 11 from a actual , activated Windows 10 is presently free . However , there are two significant conditions :
It ’s important to note that while the upgrade is presently free , Microsoft reserve the right wing to finish this fling in the futurity . So , if you ’re consider upgrading , it ’s best to do it sooner rather than afterward .
Windows 11 Requirements and Specs
window 11 has specific computer hardware requirements that your computer must encounter to ensure optimal performance and compatibility . These let in :
you could employ thePC Health Checkapp provided by Microsoft to apace determine if your computer contact these requirement . This creature will scan your organisation and provide a clear denotation of compatibility .
Having said that , it ’s technically potential to install Windows 11 even on system that do n’t meet these requirements .
How to Upgrade to Windows 11
upgrade to Windows 11 is usually a square process , especially if your computer meet the minimum system requirements . Here are the common methods :
1. Windows Update
2. Windows 11 Installation Assistant
3. Bootable Installation Media
Before you elevate , it ’s crucial to back up your crucial file . While Windows 11 upgrades are generally reliable , there ’s always a small risk of data going or face errors likeWindows installment has failedduring any major bone ascent . you could use File History , OneDrive , an external hard drive , or another backup method acting .
While elevate to Windows 11 offers the latest feature and security measures , it ’s important to consider your single needs and hardware compatibility . If you have specific software or hardware that might not be compatible with Windows 11 , or if you prefer to stay on a conversant O , remaining on Windows 10 with Extended Security Updates is a viable option .