If you’re still happily using Windows 10, here’s something you need to know: Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025.
That means no more security updates, bug fixes, or official patches — unless you take extra steps.
Windows 10 has been around since 2015, so it’s had a full 10-year run. But if your computer is still running smoothly, and you’re not ready (or able) to upgrade to Windows 11, don’t worry — there are still options to stay secure.
Why Can’t You Just Upgrade to Windows 11?
Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t always straightforward — and for many people, it’s not even possible without new hardware.
That’s because Microsoft made some very specific hardware requirements for Windows 11, including:
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) – a physical security chip most older PCs don’t have
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled
- At least an 8th-gen Intel or 2nd-gen AMD Ryzen processor
- 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage (minimum)
If your PC was made before 2018, there’s a good chance it won’t meet these requirements — especially TPM 2.0 and CPU restrictions.
While unofficial workarounds exist, they come with no guarantees and may be blocked at any time by Microsoft.
So What Happens After October 2025?
Once Windows 10 hits end-of-life status, it won’t receive any more free security updates. Running it past that date without protection is risky — but you do have two solid alternatives:
Option 1: Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft will offer a paid support program called Extended Security Updates (ESU) for those who want to keep using Windows 10 securely past 2025.
- Estimated cost: $61/year per PC
- Possibly reduced to: $30/year if you use a Microsoft Account
- Start date: Late 2024
- Includes: Official security patches similar to current updates
Option 2: 0patch – Third-Party Security Patching
If you’re looking for a more affordable, independent option, check out 0patch. They offer micropatches — lightweight security fixes that apply without restarting your system.
- Cost: About $30 per year per device
- What it does: Keeps unsupported Windows 10 systems secure
- Proven track record: Windows 7, Office 2010, Java, and more
0patch is ideal for power users, small businesses, or anyone who wants to keep their system secure without upgrading hardware.
Why It Matters
You don’t need to throw out a perfectly good computer just because Microsoft says it’s “too old.” Many systems that run Windows 10 still perform beautifully — and dropping support is more about planned obsolescence than actual performance.
Even the U.S. Navy paid Microsoft $9.1 million in 2015 to keep Windows XP patched after its end-of-life — because legacy systems still matter.
Software Support Will Eventually Fade
Even if you patch Windows 10 through ESU or 0patch, be aware that third-party applications may stop supporting it in the coming years:
- Web browsers like Google Chrome and Firefox
- Adobe Creative Cloud and design tools
- New hardware drivers and support utilities
So while you can extend Windows 10’s life, it won’t last forever.
Final Thoughts
If your system runs great and you’re happy with Windows 10, you don’t have to panic — or rush into buying new hardware. But you should start planning now.
Here’s what you can do:
- Sign up for Microsoft’s ESU or 0patch before October 2025
- Back up your important data regularly
- Consider Linux or other alternatives if you’re ready to move away from Windows
- Stay informed and take action before support ends
If you’d like help setting up 0patch, evaluating your upgrade options, or understanding Microsoft’s ESU program, feel free to reach out — or drop your questions in the comments below!
