Windows 10 End of Support 2025: What to Do? All the Solutions
Microsoft has confirmed it: support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. In concrete terms, that means no more security updates after that date. For the hundreds of millions of users still on Windows 10, the question arises: what to do? Panic? Migrate? Stay put? Here’s the full rundown.
Contents
- 1. End of support: what does it actually mean?
- 2. The real risks of staying on Windows 10
- 3. Your 4 concrete options
- 4. Migrating to Windows 11: a practical guide
- 5. Is my PC compatible with Windows 11?
- 6. Frequently asked questions
1. End of support: what does it actually mean?
Two things need to be distinguished:
- Windows 10 will NOT stop working. Your PC will keep booting normally, your software will still run, your files will be intact.
- Microsoft will NO LONGER release security updates. If a critical flaw is discovered in Windows 10 after October 2025, it won’t be patched.
It’s the same thing that happened with Windows 7 in 2020 and Windows XP in 2014. These systems still work technically, but they no longer receive security patches.
What doesn’t change
- Your applications work normally
- Your files are still accessible
- The internet still works
- Your device drivers keep working
What does change
- No more security patches (flaws exploitable by hackers)
- Some software will gradually drop support for Windows 10
- Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) will eventually stop supporting Windows 10
- Antivirus programs may reduce their coverage
2. The real risks of staying on Windows 10
Let’s be honest: the risks aren’t immediate on October 15, 2025. Nothing dramatic will happen overnight. But the risks increase gradually over time.
Low risk (0-6 months after the end)
Little concrete change. Discovered flaws take time to be exploited at scale. Your antivirus partly compensates.
Moderate risk (6-18 months)
Hackers start specifically targeting the unpatched flaws in Windows 10. Malware campaigns exploit these vulnerabilities. If you browse the internet and open emails, you’re exposed.
High risk (18+ months)
As with Windows XP and 7, the system becomes a prime target. Browsers and software stop their updates for Windows 10. You’re effectively vulnerable.
💡 Who is really at risk?
If your Windows 10 PC is never connected to the internet (industrial machine, local gaming PC), the risk is virtually nil. If you browse the web, shop online and receive emails, the risk is real and migration is recommended.
3. Your 4 concrete options
Option 1: Migrate to Windows 11 (recommended)
It’s the logical solution if your PC is compatible. You get a modern, secure system supported until at least 2027 (and probably well beyond).
- Cost: from see price at euroshopkey.com
- Difficulty: low (upgrade or clean install)
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
For a detailed comparison, read our complete Windows 11 vs Windows 10 guide.
Option 2: Pay for Microsoft Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers a paid extended support program that prolongs Windows 10 security updates for an additional 3 years (until 2028). The announced price is 30 dollars per device per year, with a price that doubles each year.
| Year | ESU cost | Cumulative cost |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (2025-2026) | ~€28 | €28 |
| Year 2 (2026-2027) | ~€56 | €84 |
| Year 3 (2027-2028) | ~€112 | €196 |
For €196 over 3 years, you could buy Windows 11 Pro at see price and have a modern system supported far longer. ESU only makes sense for companies with very specific compatibility constraints.
Option 3: Switch to Linux
If you’re technically comfortable, Linux (Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora) is a free and secure alternative. However, you lose compatibility with many Windows programs, notably Microsoft Office and most games.
Option 4: Do nothing and stay on Windows 10
It’s possible, but not recommended in the long run. If you choose this option, strengthen your security: premium antivirus, up-to-date browser, caution with emails and downloads.
4. Migrating to Windows 11: a practical guide
Migration is simpler than you might think:
- Check the compatibility of your PC (next section)
- Back up your important data to an external drive or the cloud
- Buy your Windows 11 license (from see price)
- Start the upgrade from Windows Update or the Microsoft Media Creation Tool
- Activate Windows 11 with your key (complete activation guide)
Your files, apps and settings are preserved during an upgrade. No data loss if you follow the steps correctly.
5. Is my PC compatible with Windows 11?
Windows 11 hardware requirements
| Component | Requirement | How to check |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel 8th gen+ / AMD Ryzen 2000+ | Settings → System → About |
| RAM | 4 GB minimum | Task Manager → Performance |
| Storage | 64 GB minimum | This PC → drive properties |
| TPM | Version 2.0 | Run tpm.msc |
| Secure Boot | Enabled in the BIOS | msinfo32 → BIOS Mode |
The easiest way: download Microsoft’s official PC Health Check tool. It analyzes your PC and tells you instantly whether it’s compatible.
My PC isn’t compatible, what should I do?
If your PC is too old for Windows 11, two options remain worthwhile:
- Stay on Windows 10 with a beefed-up antivirus and good digital hygiene
- Change your PC: Windows 11-compatible PCs are now very affordable, and our Windows 11 + Office bundles let you save on the licenses
6. Frequently asked questions
Will Windows 10 stop working on October 14, 2025?
No. Windows 10 will keep working normally. Only the security updates stop. Your PC, your files and your software won’t be affected on the day.
Is the upgrade to Windows 11 free?
If your PC is compatible and your Windows 10 license is genuine, the upgrade to Windows 11 is technically free via Windows Update. However, if your Windows 10 license isn’t activated or you want a higher edition (going from Home to Pro, for example), a new license is needed.
Do I need to migrate immediately?
No need to panic on the day itself, but don’t put it off too long. Ideally, migrate within 6 months of the end of support to stay secure.
Will my software work on Windows 11?
In 99% of cases, yes. Windows 11 is compatible with almost all Windows 10 software. The rare exceptions involve very old software or specific drivers. For the details, check our Windows 11 vs 10 comparison.
📌 Further reading
- Windows 11 vs Windows 10: Should You Upgrade?
- Windows 11 Home vs Pro: Which Version?
- How to Activate Windows 11
🚀 Migrate to Windows 11 right now
Windows 11 Home — see price | Windows 11 Pro — see price
🔒 Genuine license • 🚚 Instant delivery • 📞 Migration support included
