Beginning Tuesday, Microsoft will cease offering standard free support for Windows 10, the operating system relied on by millions of computer and laptop users globally.
As of September, data indicates that four out of ten individuals worldwide still use Windows 10, despite the release of its successor, Windows 11, in 2021.
What’s Changing with Windows 10?
Effective October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer offer standard free software updates, security patches, or technical support for PCs running Windows 10.
While computers utilizing this software will continue to operate, their vulnerability to viruses and malware will increase as new bugs and security issues come to light.
Microsoft states that Windows 11, a more advanced system, “meets modern security demands by default.”
What Are the Risks?
If Windows users take no action, they might find themselves particularly exposed to hackers attempting to exploit vulnerabilities in large systems.
The consumer group Which? has highlighted that around five million British users intend to keep using devices running this software.
Regardless of location, continuing to operate on Windows 10 places users at risk for cyberattacks, data breaches, and fraud.
According to Lisa Barber, editor at Which?, criminals “will target individuals and exploit vulnerabilities to steal data.” – Technology magazine.
How Can I Mitigate the Threat?
The simplest solution is to upgrade to Windows 11 at no cost.
If your PC is less than four years old, it is likely capable of running Windows 11. To confirm, check your computer specifications. The minimum specifications for Windows 11 include 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, and the machine also requires a Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM 2.0) that securely stores credentials, similar to modern smartphones.
Microsoft provides a free tool to determine if your Windows 10 PC is compatible with Windows 11. For additional compatibility checks, you can use online tools based on your CPU.
What If My Computer Lacks the Necessary Hardware to Upgrade to Windows 11?
If you don’t take any action, you could be exposed to malware and security risks. One option is to enroll in a one-year agreement with Microsoft for Extended Security Updates, which will be available until October 13, 2026.
This provides an additional year to plan for the end of support and arrange for replacements.
Registration is free if you log in to Windows 10 with a Microsoft account to sync your settings. Otherwise, it will cost $30 (excluding tax) or you can redeem 1,000 reward points.
Are There Alternatives to Windows 11?
You can use your PC safely with other operating systems if it cannot be upgraded to Windows 11.
A viable solution is installing Linux, a free family of operating systems that offers various distributions.
Ensure you back up all your files to an external drive or secure storage, as switching from Windows may delete or complicate file access.
Among the most popular and user-friendly versions of Linux is Canonical’s Ubuntu, which is free, open-source, and regularly updated for security. Installing it in place of Windows requires a USB flash drive; Canonical provides a step-by-step installation guide.
While many applications support Linux, be mindful that not all Windows software is available for Linux.
Alternatively, if your computing needs can be met via a web browser, Google provides a lightweight version of ChromeOS, which can be installed for free on many PCs. Ensure your model is supported and refer to Google’s installation guide, which also requires a USB flash drive.
Buying a New Computer
If you cannot install alternative software or still require Windows, consider purchasing a new PC equipped with Windows 11 and ongoing support.
Many retailers offer trade-in programs where you can recycle your old computer and get a small discount on a new model. Refurbished Windows 11 devices are also readily available from various retailers. Check out options like Currys, Back Market, and manufacturers like Dell for affordable options.
Source: www.theguardian.com
