What happens when Windows 10 support ends in 2025?

Windows 11 is to adopt poorly, many people cling to good old Windows 10. Microsoft is pushing users to upgrade, threatening to eliminate software support and warns about potential cyber security risks. But Windows 11 is not the best OS to come out of Redmund. Even if it was, many people cannot upgrade only because of the needs of their standing system.

In fact, it took Windows 11 to cross its predecessor in user numbers at the end, nearly four years after the beginning of 2021. Now that Windows 10 is being phased, many users, especially old PCs who do not meet hardware requirements, are quite concerned. Visconsin’s Tony recently asked us the same thing:

“I heard that Microsoft will stop providing security patch for Windows 10 after October. My laptop cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 as the CPU is very old. Since I am not a tech-servant and do not feel comfortable to change the CPU (and I do not want), I wondering if I have a good anti-anticipatory program?”

I understand your concern, Tony. Stick security risks with an inaned OS. Security researchers have warned that inappropriate systems such as Windows 10 will become rapidly attractive goals for hackers. Hackers often released reverse-engineer patch released for new systems such as Windows 11 to find similar flaws in older people such as Windows 10. With no further improvement, those weaknesses are widely open, making the inauspicious systems an attractive goal.

However, you are not without options, and you have a defense. Come on, what can you do if your PC is still running Windows 10.

Sign up for my free cyber report
Distribute my best technical tips, immediate safety alerts, and exclusive deals directly into your inbox. In addition, you will get immediate access to my final scam survival guide – when you join me Cyberguy.com/newsletter.

Windows 11 finally crosses Windows 10 in the market stock

According to Statcounter, Windows 11 has finally surpassed Windows 10 in terms of desktop and laptop use in early July. The new OS is now for 52 percent of all Windows installations, which is less than 48 percent in June. In the same period, Windows 10 fell from 53.2 percent to 44.6 percent. Interestingly, Windows 7 still has a small but remarkable appearance, 2.35 percent of the users refused to let it go.

The change occurred nearly four years later when Microsoft announced Windows 11 in June 2021. From the beginning, it was criticized for strict hardware rules. This required a TPM 2.0 chip and new processor. Many functional PCs were left unable to upgrade. The operating system also introduced a revived user interface, which some users found unnecessary or misleading, leading to a slow adoption rate.

What happens when Windows 10 support ends in 2025? What should you know here

Windows is reaching the end of its official support on October 14, 2025. This means that Microsoft will stop releasing new facilities and regular security updates for the general public. For most users, it marks the end of the road, as long as they take specific steps to get updates.

To expand the security updates beyond this deadline, Microsoft is offering an program called extended security updates (ESU). Generally, it will cost $ 30 per year for individual users. However, Microsoft is freeing the first year if you backup your PC using the Windows backup app and sink your settings on ONEDRIVE, or if you redeem 1,000 microsoft rewards points.

Microsoft has not disclosed pricing beyond the first year, so it is not clear whether the rates of $ 30/year will remain the same in 2026 and 2027.

If you do not choose in any of those methods, you will have to pay $ 30 to get important patch through October 2026. This is especially relevant to those who cannot upgrade Windows 11 due to hardware limits.

Even after the general support ends, Microsoft will update the Microsoft defender antivirus on Windows 10 by October 2028. Therefore, while full system safety updates will be closed for most, basic malware security will continue for a few more years.

Can’t upgrade Windows 11? 8 safe options for Windows 10 users in 2025

1) Stick with Windows 10 by 2025 and expand the support if necessary

You can continue using Windows 10 by October 14, 2025 with full access to regular safety and stability updates. After that, you can expand security by enrolling Microsoft’s Extended Safety Update Program. If you use the Windows backup app to sync your settings on the ondrive, or if you redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, the first year is free.

2) Upgrade to Windows 11 if your PC supports it

If your computer meets hardware requirements for Windows 11, then the easiest long -term solution to upgrade is. You will get access to feature updates, better security and long -term support through at least 2031.

3) Try Chromos Flex

Google offers a free operating system called Chromos Flex, designed for old PCs and laptops. It is based on the same system used in chromebook and focuses on speed, simplicity and security. However, it does not support some hardware features such as Android apps or fingerprint readers and cannot work for tasks like video editing or gaming .. This can be a great option if you use web apps like Gmail, Google Docs or Zoom.

4) Switch to Linux

Linux distribution such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS offer a stable and user friendly experience, especially for people coming from Windows. You can use them on old hardware without any licensing fee, and they come with access to thousands of free applications. Although the learning stage can be a bit of a bit, many users find Linux reliable and stunningly easier for everyday tasks such as browsing, writing and media playback.

5) Buy a new PC with Windows 11

If your current system cannot handle Windows 11 and you are not interested in options such as Chromos or Linux, then investing in a new computer can be the most direct way. The new devices come with Windows 11 and are designed to fully support it. This ensures that you will continue to get updates, facilities and support for many years without extra effort.

See our top pics for the best desktop computer for 2025 Cyberguy.com/bestdesktops And also on the best laptop for our top pics Cyberguy.com/bestlaptops.

Learn to safely get rid of your old PC or Mac by clicking Cyberguy.com/recyclepc.

6) Install strong antivirus software for extended safety on Windows 10

If you decide to stick to Windows 10 beyond its official support period, the strong third-party antivirus conservation becomes even more important. While Microsoft defender will continue to receive updates by 2028, it may not be sufficient on its own after the system stops receiving the core security patch. Installing a reputed antivirus program can help protect your device from malware, phishing and other dangers.

Get my pics for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices Cyberguy.com/Lockupyourtch.

7) Backup your files first, no matter what you choose

Before making any major changes, be sure to backup your important files. You can use cloud services such as Onedrive or Google Drive, or plug into the outer hard drive.

8) Consider a secondary device (tablet, chromebook, or iPad)

If you mainly use your computer for email, browsing, or video calls, a tablet or chromebook you may need all. They are low maintenance, safe and often more inexpensive than a new Windows laptop.

See our top pics for the best tablets of 2025 Cyberguy.com/besttables.

Kurt’s key to Techway

The end of Windows 10 support is not a crisis, but this requires action. You should now start planning your next step. Consider upgrading to a new version of Windows. You can also switch to a separate operating system. Another option is investing in strong safety devices. And stay on alert: As near the end life of Windows 10, scammers will take advantage. See out for phone calls, emails, or pop-ups offering “Tatkal Upgrade Help” from Microsoft. Microsoft does not call users out of blue – these are scams that are trying to steal your personal information or install malware. Whatever you choose, do not delay the decision. Make sure your PC remains preserved and up -to -date.

Main Windows to learn 10 dates:

• Now through October 14, 2025: Windows 10 continues to receive full support and safety updates.
• On October 15, 2025 October 2026: The first year of extended security updates begins (free or $ 30).
• October 2028: Last end of Microsoft Defender Antivirus updates for Windows 10.

Will you pay for extended safety updates or use free options that are offering Microsoft? Write us and tell us Cyberguy.com/Contact.

Sign up for my free cyber report
Distribute my best technical tips, immediate safety alerts, and exclusive deals directly into your inbox. In addition, you will get immediate access to my final scam survival guide – when you join me Cyberguy.com/newsletter.

Copyright 2025 cyberguy.com. All rights reserved.