Microsoft has revealed plans to discontinue support for Windows 10 by October 2025.
This move marks a significant milestone in the tech giant’s efforts to transition users to its latest operating system, Windows 11.
What Does This Mean For Users?
The end of support for Windows 10 means that users will no longer receive:
- Security updates and patches
- Bug fixes and technical support
- New features and functionality
What Can You Do About It?
1. Nothing
Don’t panic! Your Windows 10 computer will still function as usual, but from a security perspective, continuing to use an unsupported operating system isn’t ideal, it is horrible if you manage an enterprise fleet.
Now if you want to continue using Windows 10, consider installing the free 0patch agent to address any security vulnerabilities that Microsoft will no longer patch.
While personal use is free, businesses and enterprises will need to subscribe to 0patch support for a small monthly fee.
2. Upgrade your old PC to Windows 11
There is the option of upgrading to Windows 11.
To be eligible, your computer must meet specific conditions, including:
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 support
- Secure Boot enabled in the BIOS
- A supported processor model
The TPM requirement is particularly problematic, as it kinda rules out many older PC builds but there are ways around it. More on those later!
To upgrade your Windows 10 PC to Windows 11:
- Run the PC Health Check tool to see if your PC is compatible. If you don’t have it, download it here.
- Once you’re in the clear, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click the Check for updates button. Here, you can install it directly as an update.
If you don’t see an option to update, head over to the Windows 11 Download Page to download the installer.
Bypassing Compatibility
Let’s hear from Microsoft 🎤
“Installing Windows 11 on a device that does not meet Windows 11 minimum system requirements is not recommended.
If you choose to install Windows 11 on ineligible hardware, you should be comfortable assuming the risk of running into compatibility issues.
Your device might malfunction due to these compatibility or other issues.
Devices that do not meet these system requirements will no longer be guaranteed to receive updates, including but not limited to security updates.
The following disclaimer applies if you install Windows 11 on a device that doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements:
This PC doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements for running Windows 11 – these requirements help ensure a more reliable and higher quality experience.
Installing Windows 11 on this PC is not recommended and may result in compatibility issues.
If you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won’t be entitled to receive updates.
Damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren’t covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.”
Let’s unpack shall we?
This is more of a disclaimer than a threat from Microsoft.
The document states that your PC will no longer be ‘supported’ and you’ll no longer be ‘entitled’ to updates.
The use of the word ‘entitled’ is a subtle hint at Microsoft’s intention to absolve themselves of legal responsibility, without explicitly stating their future actions.
To bypass compatibility and install Windows 11, a TPM is still a requirement, but the good news is that even an older TPM 1.2 chip will suffice.
However, if your PC lacks this hardware, then it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer model.
Tom’s Hardware has a good tutorial on How to Bypass Windows 11’s TPM, CPU and RAM Requirements.
3. Pay Microsoft For Security Updates
Money!
While it’s true that Microsoft will cease free security updates, they’re offering a paid solution for persons, businesses, and educational institutions who still need more time to upgrade to Win 11 as part of their Extended Security Options (ESUs).
Jason Leznek, the principal product manager for Windows servicing and delivery had this to say:
“Like the Windows 7 ESU program, your organization will be able to purchase a yearly subscription to security updates.
The yearly commitment is renewable for three years. Devices enrolled in ESUs will receive monthly security updates to keep these Windows 10 PCs secure.
The ESU program for Windows 10 will include critical and/or important security updates. ESUs do not include new features, customer-requested non-security updates, or design change requests. Technical support beyond the ESU itself is also not available.”
| Customer Type | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Educational Institutions (Windows 10 Education edition) | $1 | $2 | $4 | $7 |
| Business Customers | $61 | $122 | $244 | $427 |
4. Get a New PC
If you have the financial means, investing in a new PC with modern hardware is the wisest choice as it guarantees a more secure and efficient computing environment.
5. Try Linux?
We’ve come to the last option.
Now, I am not one of those Linux-heads who have their personalities attached to an operating system and would swear that you were uncool for still using Windows (I still do btw) but there has never been a better time to call it quits on Windows.
Microsoft recently announced its latest AI-powered *cough cough* spyware PCs that would be unlike anything the industry has ever seen with features like Windows Recall which will be able to “remember and understand everything you do on your computer by taking constant screenshots”.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella calls this “a step toward machines that instantly see us hear, reason about our intent and our surroundings.”
I cannot begin to imagine the security and privacy nightmare that would mar the next decade so yes, these could be your sign to crossover to Linux.
You should watch out for Web Security Lab‘s guide on how to choose a Linux distribution.
Adios, 10. Been nice knowing ya!
