Windows 10 end of life: What happened and what to do next

What does Windows 10 end of life mean?

"End of life" (EOL) sounds dramatic, but in the world of software, it simply means the end of support.

For Windows 10, Microsoft historically provided security patches, bug fixes, feature updates, technical support, and system improvements. All of that ended on October 14, 2025, with some exceptions.

Windows 10 doesn’t stop turning on, your files don’t disappear, and your apps don’t stop working overnight. What changes is the level of protection and support behind the scenes. Every month after EOL, your device becomes a slightly easier target for attackers.

The official date of Windows 10’s end of life

The official end-of-support date for Windows 10 was October 14, 2025. That cutoff applied to every mainstream edition, including:

• Windows 10 Home.
• Windows 10 Pro.
• Windows 10 Pro Education.
• Windows 10 Education.
• Windows 10 Enterprise.

A few versions, however, got a longer runway. The Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC editions have extended support until 2032, thanks to their long-term servicing channel model.

Additionally, Microsoft introduced a paid extended security updates (ESU) program available until October 2028.

What Microsoft will no longer provide

From the EOL date onward, Microsoft no longer provides:

• Security updates. Once new cybersecurity vulnerabilities are discovered, Windows 10 won’t receive fixes unless you’re enrolled in ESU.
• Feature updates. That means no new OS capabilities, design improvements, or quality-of-life enhancements.
• Technical support. Microsoft support will no longer help troubleshoot Windows 10 issues.

Note: Microsoft will continue updating Windows Defender malware definitions through October 2028, but these alone can’t patch OS-level vulnerabilities, privilege escalation bugs, or kernel exploits.

What happens to your Windows 10 PC after the end of life?

Let’s clear up the biggest misconceptions. After October 2025, your computer didn’t shut down, lock you out, force you to update, slow down by design, or lose your files. Most Windows 10 systems keep working exactly as they did the day before EOL. But some things did change, so let’s take a look at the full picture.

Your computer doesn’t stop working

There’s no self-destruct countdown built into Windows. You can still log in, browse the web, run programs, connect external devices, and install older software.

Your programs and apps still work

Almost all applications function normally after EOL. Over time, though:

• Newer versions of apps may drop support.
• Browsers may eventually stop updating (like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge).
• Software vendors may label Windows 10 as "unsupported."

But if history is any indicator, legacy apps often run for years after official EOL. Many Windows XP applications still run today.

Windows security still functions

Windows Defender will continue to receive malware definition updates through October 2028. This means your system will still get updated lists of known viruses, along with basic threat detection and real-time scanning capabilities. However, it will no longer receive patches for new vulnerabilities, kernel-level security fixes, or zero-day mitigations. In addition, Windows Defender itself will not receive any further improvements.

Security risks of staying on Windows 10

Without periodic security updates, your PC becomes more susceptible to attack with each passing week, so you have to keep an eye out for signs of malware and other cybersecurity threats.

Newly discovered OS vulnerabilities

Security researchers and attackers continue to find flaws in older versions of Windows. On supported systems, those flaws are quickly patched, helping prevent cyberattacks. On Windows 10, they remain open. That means any new hole discovered after October 2025 stays wide open unless you’re paying for ESU.

Zero-day exploits

Zero-days are vulnerabilities that attackers use before anyone knows they exist. When Windows 10 was still supported, Microsoft would rush out emergency updates to fix them. Now, a zero-day exploit could circulate for months or longer without an official fix.

Ransomware and other malware

Older unpatched systems are prime targets for malware operators. They rely on outdated security layers, weak points in old protocols, and users who haven’t upgraded yet. If you need a refresher on how harmful these are, take a look at the computer virus definition.

Unpatched privilege escalation bugs

Privilege escalation bugs let attackers turn a small foothold into full system access. These bugs are common, and on supported systems, they’re patched quickly. On Windows 10, they simply accumulate.

Network attacks

Unsupported systems are easier to probe, map, and exploit over a network. If your Windows 10 machine sits on a shared home or work network, it can quickly become the entry point for a broader cyberattack, and the Windows built-in VPN won’t be able to protect you.

Compatibility gaps in modern security tools

Security companies eventually stop optimizing their tools for older operating systems. Antivirus engines, firewalls, and endpoint protection suites shift their focus to newer versions of Windows. That means Windows 10 users get fewer improvements, outdated drivers, and weaker protection. 

Compliance and regulatory issues

If you run a business, especially in a regulated industry, staying on Windows 10 violates frameworks such as:

• HIPAA (healthcare).
• PCI DSS (payment processing).
• The GDPR (data protection in the EU).
• ISO 27001 (information security).

These standards all require that you use supported, fully patched operating systems. Once Windows 10 fell off the update cycle, it no longer meets that bar.

Your options after Windows 10 end of life

Now that Windows 10 is past its support date, you have a few paths forward. Some are quick wins, some buy you time, and some mean starting fresh.

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11

If your current PC can handle it, upgrading to Windows 11 is the simplest option. You keep all your files and apps, and you move to an operating system that Microsoft is actively protecting. Windows 11 provides ongoing security updates and stronger defenses designed to stay ahead of modern cyber threats. It also offers better performance on supported devices and introduces new productivity tools, all while maintaining a familiar interface with only a slight learning curve. For eligible PCs, the upgrade is available at no cost.

Check if your PC can run Windows 11

Windows 11 has stricter requirements than Windows 10. To upgrade, your PC needs:

• TPM 2.0.
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled.
• 4GB of RAM or more.
• At least 64GB of storage.
• A supported processor (Intel 8th-gen, AMD Zen 2, or newer).

To check if your Windows 10 device can upgrade to Windows 11:

1. 1.Open the Start menu and head to "Settings."
2. 2.Go to "Update & security."
3. 3.Select "Windows update."
4. 4.If your device is eligible, you’ll usually see a note about the end of support and an option to upgrade to Windows 11.

How to upgrade to Windows 11

The upgrade is straightforward:

1. 1.Back up your personal files using Windows Backup or wipe the computer’s hard drive if you’re starting fresh.
2. 2.Go to "Settings" > "Update & security."
3. 3.Select "Windows update."
4. 4.Download and install Windows 11.

If anything goes wrong during or after the upgrade, you can boot into Windows 11 safe mode. It’s the quickest way to roll back recent changes without risking your files.

This is also a good moment to review your Windows privacy settings. Windows 11 gives you clearer controls over data collection, app permissions, and tracking, so take a minute to customize those settings before you start using the new system.

Bypassing Windows 11 hardware requirements

Workarounds exist, such as Rufus, registry edits, or modified ISOs, but none are officially supported. They’ll get Windows 11 running on older devices, but with some trade-offs:

• Microsoft can close these loopholes at any time.
• Unsupported installs may miss important updates.
• Stability issues are more common on older hardware.

Use this path only if you understand the risks.

Option 2: Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU)

It’s possible that your device doesn’t meet the technical requirements to run Windows 11. If that’s the case, you can enroll in the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates program, which Microsoft now offers to individual consumers as well as businesses. This program provides monthly security updates along with critical and important fixes, but it does not include new features, bug fixes, or technical support.

ESU is valid until October 2028. Pricing for consumers is $30/year or 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. It’s free if you back up to Microsoft OneDrive.

How to enroll in ESU

Signing up only takes a minute:

1. 1.Open "Settings."
2. 2.Go to "Update & security."
3. 3.Click "Windows update."
4. 4.Select "Check for updates."
5. 5.If your device is eligible, you’ll see an "Enroll in ESU" option.

Is ESU worth it?

ESU makes sense if your PC can’t run Windows 11, if your business depends on older or specialized software, if you need extra time before replacing hardware, or if you’re in a transition period and want to avoid rushing the upgrade.

However, ESU is not ideal if you want the highest level of security, if you spend a lot of time online, or if you’re looking for a long-term setup. It’s essentially a way to buy yourself more time without upgrading, but it isn’t a solution you should rely on indefinitely.

Option 3: Purchase a new Windows PC or switch to Linux or macOS 

If your current Windows 10 device can’t run Windows 11 and paying for ESU doesn’t feel worth it, buying a new computer is sometimes the best choice. Many Windows ecosystem partners offer trade-in and recycling programs for old computers, giving discounts for new PCs.

Not excited about staying in the Windows ecosystem at all? macOS is another path. It has its own security model, predictable update cycles, and a tightly integrated environment that tends to age well.

If new hardware isn’t an option, you can keep your existing device and switch to a different operating system. Several Linux distributions are completely free and come with ongoing updates. Modern Linux systems are lightweight and well-supported, and many people appreciate the stronger privacy controls and overall Linux security model.

If you go this route, don’t forget to secure your connection with a VPN for Linux, since network protection matters regardless of the operating system.

Option 4: Continue without updates (not recommended)

You can keep using Windows 10 on your PC without any updates, but it’s the least safe option. Risks include:

• Exposure to new vulnerabilities.
• Apps eventually stopping support.
• Drivers becoming outdated.
• Browsers dropping compatibility.
• No recovery mechanisms for new threats.

This option is only viable for offline devices, like a PC dedicated to controlling old hardware or a retro gaming machine. Anything connected to the internet is too risky.

How to reduce security risks on Windows 10 without the updates

If you’re staying on Windows 10 for now, tighten your overall cyber hygiene — the simple habits that keep your device safer day to day.

Essential security measures

Some steps you should take right away:

• Keep Windows Defender on and updated. Make sure real-time protection is active. If you need help, here’s how to turn on Windows Security Defender.
• Use a strong third-party antivirus. Avoid unknown or "free unlimited" products and stick to reputable names.
• Enable your firewall. Don’t turn it off, not even temporarily.
• Make regular backups. A cloud backup plus an external drive is the safest combo.
• Update your applications. Apps often patch vulnerabilities faster than OS vendors.
• Use reliable passwords. Create a strong and unique password for each of your accounts.
• Improve your overall security posture. Small habits make a big difference on an unsupported OS.
• Consider Threat Protection Pro™. It blocks trackers, malicious downloads, and harmful websites.

Limit internet exposure

If you’re staying on Windows 10, reducing how much it’s exposed to the internet makes a big difference. A few practical ways to cut risk:

• Use another device for most of your browsing.
• Create a non-admin account for day-to-day use.
• Turn off services you don’t actually need.
• Limit network access when you can.

Using a VPN for Windows gives another layer of security. The best VPN services make it much harder for attackers to scan or target an older system, even though they don’t replace missing updates.

For businesses: Windows 10 end of support considerations

Windows 10’s end of support affects companies far more than home users. Unsupported systems can open compliance gaps, create audit issues, and increase the attack surface across entire networks.

Commercial ESU pricing

ESU for enterprises follows a tiered model.

• Year 1: $61 per device
• Year 2: Price doubles
• Year 3: Doubles again

Enterprise ESU is available through 2028, giving IT teams time to plan migrations without leaving entire systems exposed.

Migration planning

If your organization is holding off on a full upgrade, plan the transition carefully. Microsoft offers several tools to make the move smoother:

• App Assure helps verify and fix application compatibility issues.
• Windows Autopilot streamlines the provisioning of new devices.
• Microsoft Intune centralizes device management.

According to Microsoft, 99.7% of Windows 10 apps work on Windows 11 without any changes, which means most businesses can migrate without rewriting or replacing their software stack.