Windows 10 support has ended: what it means for you
Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. A Windows 10 computer still turns on and works, but it no longer gets security fixes, so it becomes less safe over time. You have three options: upgrade it to Windows 11 if it qualifies, enroll in Microsoft's Extended Security Updates to buy time, or replace it.
What “end of support” means
Since October 14, 2025, Microsoft no longer provides these for Windows 10: security updates and fixes, other software updates, and technical support.
Your computer will not stop working. Microsoft says so directly. But without security updates it is at greater risk from viruses and malware, and that risk grows with every month that passes.
Steps
- See whether your PC can be upgraded for free. On Windows 10, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If the PC qualifies, Windows offers the upgrade there. Microsoft says the upgrade is free for PCs running Windows 10 version 22H2 that meet the minimum hardware requirements.
- Back up your files before any upgrade. See how to back up a Windows PC.
- Choose one of the three options below.
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC qualifies, this is the answer that lasts. A Windows upgrade takes a while and restarts the computer several times, so back up first and leave it plugged in. WeldonPC does Windows 11 upgrades in its store only, where a technician can check the hardware and protect your files; it does not do them over a remote session.
Option 2: Extended Security Updates, to buy time
Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program keeps security fixes coming to an enrolled Windows 10 PC. When we checked Microsoft's page on October 6, 2026, it said the program for home users runs through October 12, 2027, and that you can enroll at any time until then.
- You need Windows 10 version 22H2 and a Microsoft account.
- Microsoft lists three ways to enroll: at no additional cost if you are syncing your PC settings, by redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or with a one-time purchase of 30 US dollars plus tax.
- To enroll, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If your PC meets the requirements, you will see a link to enroll.
ESU is a bridge, not a destination: it adds security fixes only, and it ends.
Option 3: Replace the computer
If your PC can't run Windows 11, a new one is the long-term fix. Windows Backup can carry your files and settings over to it. If your PC can't run Windows 11, WeldonPC goes over your options with you, such as a hardware upgrade or a replacement computer.
What we would not do
Leave a Windows 10 PC as it is and keep using it for banking and email. If you need more time, enroll in ESU now rather than later: Microsoft notes that a PC is more exposed until it is enrolled.
A scam to watch for
Any pop-up or caller that says your Windows “has expired” and asks for payment or remote access is a scam. WeldonPC will never ask for payment, passwords or remote access through a pop-up. See what to do about a scary pop-up.
Sources
- Windows 10 support has ended on October 14, 2025, Microsoft Support (checked )
- Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU), Microsoft (checked )
- Windows 10 Support Has Ended: Schedule Your In-Store Windows 11 Upgrade, WeldonPC (checked )
We check these steps against the sources above and review this guide by January 6, 2027. Software changes; if a screen looks different from what we describe, trust the source.