Windows 10 Support Ends on October 14, 2025: What It Means and How to Upgrade to Windows 11 (Step-by-Step)
Windows 10 reaches end of support on October 14, 2025. You’ll stop getting security updates and new fixes. Your PC will still work, but it will become less secure over time.
Some Microsoft apps keep updating on Windows 10: Microsoft Edge and WebView2 Runtime get security updates until at least October 2028 Microsoft 365 Apps (Enterprise and Business) receive security updates on Windows 10 until October 2028. That is not patching the Windows 10 OS itself.
Alternatives:
Upgrade to Windows 11 (free for eligible devices).
Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU) to keep Windows 10 patched for a limited time. ESU is available to organizations and individuals.
Move to alternatives (new PC, ChromeOS Flex, or Linux).
Why this matters to End User:
After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 devices stop receiving security updates, bug fixes, and technical support from Microsoft. That increases your exposure to new vulnerabilities and malware over time, even if you’re careful online.
What continues to get updated on Windows 10:
Microsoft Edge & WebView2 Runtime, security and platform patches up to October 2028. Useful for web apps, but it doesn't update the Windows 10 OS.
Microsoft 365 Apps (business/enterprise plans): security updates on Windows 10 up to October 10, 2028. Again, it doesn't patch Windows 10 itself.
Choose what is optimal for your PC and your budget
Option A Upgrade to Windows 11 (recommended if your PC qualifies)
Windows 11 offers ongoing security updates and features. Begin with compatibility testing using PC Health Check. The requirements include a supported 64-bit processor, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, 4 GB RAM, and 64 GB of storage.
Test compatibility: download and execute "Check now" in PC Health Check.
If your device is found to be compatible, upgrade using Windows Update, Installation Assistant, or installation media.
Option B Stick with Windows 10 with Extended Security Updates (ESU)
If you can't upgrade in time, Microsoft offers paid ESU subscriptions for Windows 10 to businesses and consumers. ESU offers essential and/or important security updates for a limited time until Oct 2025. This provides you with time, but new Windows features are not part of this. View Microsoft's ESU page for scope, eligibility, and enrollment details. (Microsoft Learn)
Option C Look for alternatives (if your PC is not able to qualify under Windows 11 requirements)
ChromeOS Flex (Google) can revive old PCs/Macs with a lightweight,secure OS. Fine for web-browsing. (chromeos.google, Google Help)
Ubuntu Linux (LTS) comes with 5 years of standard support (with added security in Ubuntu Pro). Great for general use and development. (wiki.ubuntu.com, Ubuntu)
How to Safely upgrade to Windows 11
Preparation (15–45 minutes)
Backup your files (OneDrive, external drive, or whatever backup program you use).
Update Windows 10 to latest 22H2 updates (Settings → Update & Security).
Clear space (aim for 20–30 GB of free space).
Update BIOS/UEFI and drivers from your PC manufacturer's website.
TPM 2.0 & Secure Boot enablement in BIOS/UEFI if required. Microsoft's manual explains how to check and enable TPM 2.0. (Microsoft Support)
Run PC Health Check to check Windows 11 compatibility. (Microsoft Support)
Method 1 Upgrade via Windows Update (easiest)
Go to Settings Update & Security Windows Update.
Click Check for updates. If your device is eligible, you’ll see the option to download and install Windows 11.
Method 2 Windows 11 Installation Assistant (for eligible devices)
From Microsoft’s Ways to install Windows 11 page, download the Installation Assistant.
Run it and follow the on-screen instructions to update in place. Your files and apps won't move. (Microsoft Support)
Method 3 Installation media (USB) for clean install
Download the Media Creation Tool or ISO from the same Microsoft page.
Create a bootable USB, backup your files, boot from USB, and have a clean install. (Microsoft Support)
Important: We don't suggest installing Windows 11 on unsupported devices and they may not get updates or support. Microsoft strongly advises against it.
To know more about gaming accessories 2025 read Top 5 Gaming Accessories in 2025
After the upgrade to Windows 11
Sign in, look at your files and apps, and install any outstanding Windows Updates.
Update drivers through Windows Update and your PC manufacturer's support website.
Turn on BitLocker/Device Encryption if supported.
Set up a restore point and system image for the future.
FAQs How to Upgrade to Windows 11
1-Will my Windows 10 PC stop working on October 14, 2025?
No, it will continue to work. But with no security updates, danger mounts over time.
2-Is Windows 11 a free upgrade?
Yes, on eligible Windows 10 PCs that meet Windows 11 requirements. Check with PC Health Check.
3- My PC won't pass TPM/Secure Boot tests what to do?
First, check if TPM 2.0/Secure Boot can be turned on in BIOS/UEFI. If hardware is not supported, use Windows 10 + ESU temporarily, replace hardware, or try ChromeOS Flex/Linux. Microsoft doesn't suggest running Windows 11 on unsupported hardware and could block updates.
4-What continues to update on Windows 10 after 2025?
Edge/WebView2 and Microsoft 365 Apps (business.enterprise) receive updates through October 2028--but those do not update the Windows 10 OS itself. (Microsoft Support, Microsoft Learn)
5-Can I go back to Windows 10?
Yes within 10 days of the update you can roll back: Settings → System → Recovery → Go back. More than 10 days on, you have to manually reinstall Windows 10. (Microsoft Support)
How RYK Accessories can assist
We will release transparent upgrade guides and compatibility checklists specifically for non-tech-savvy users.We will compare affordable Windows 11 laptops for seamless upgrades and develop beginner-oriented guides for ChromeOS Flex and Ubuntu LTS where applicable.
We'll keep this article updated if Microsoft changes timelines or ESU details for update keep visit www.rykaccessories.com
