Windows 10 support has ended: what should you do now?

Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Your PC will not suddenly stop working, but normal security updates for standard Home and Pro editions have ended unless you are covered by an eligible extended support route.

Update, July 2026: recent reporting says Microsoft is giving Windows 10 users more ways to enrol for Extended Security Updates, including routes that may avoid the one-off fee by using Windows Backup/OneDrive or Microsoft Rewards points. This can give some home users more time, but it is still temporary protection rather than a reason to ignore the problem.

That matters because security problems continue to be found after support ends. Over time, an unsupported computer becomes a weaker point for online banking, email, shopping, family photos, documents, and business data.

First: do not panic-buy a new computer

Some Windows 10 machines can upgrade to Windows 11. Others fail the checks because of older processors, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, firmware, drivers, or other compatibility issues. It is worth checking properly before replacing anything.

Your main options

• Upgrade to Windows 11 if the machine is compatible and in good condition.
• Fix upgrade blockers where the hardware supports it but settings or firmware are in the way.
• Use Extended Security Updates if your PC is eligible and you need more time. Check the current terms carefully: some routes may involve OneDrive backup, Microsoft Rewards points, or a payment.
• Replace the PC if it is genuinely unsupported, unreliable, or too slow to be worth spending time on.
• Consider Linux for some older computers, especially if you mainly browse the web, email, and write documents.

Extended updates are a bridge, not the destination

Extended Security Updates can reduce risk while you plan the next step, but they do not make Windows 10 new again. They are security updates only. They do not fix old hardware, guarantee every app will keep working, or remove the need to plan for Windows 11, a replacement computer, or another sensible route.

If you use the PC for banking, email, tax, work, or storing important photos and documents, it is worth checking the machine properly rather than guessing.

What about unofficial Windows 11 workarounds?

There are unofficial ways to install Windows 11 on some unsupported hardware, but they can carry support, update, and reliability tradeoffs. Treat them as a case-by-case decision, not a default fix.

How Home IT Help can help

I can check whether your Windows 10 computer is genuinely unsupported, look for safe upgrade options, back up your data, and give practical advice before you spend money on a replacement.