Windows 10 end of support explained: your options now

What "end of support" means

When an operating system reaches end of support, the maker stops releasing regular updates, including security fixes. The computer keeps working, but every newly discovered flaw stays open. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Our guide What is an operating system? explains why that matters.

The safety net: Extended Security Updates

For home users who could not yet upgrade, Microsoft offered a consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme. It provides critical security fixes, but not new features or general technical support. It was originally due to end on 13 October 2026. In June 2026 Microsoft extended it, and enrolment is now available until the programme ends on 12 October 2027. Devices already enrolled keep their coverage automatically.

Who can enrol and how

To be eligible, a PC needs Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Workstations) with the latest updates, and you need to sign in with a Microsoft account that has administrator rights. There are three ways to enrol:

• Turn on Windows Backup to sync your PC settings, at no extra cost.
• Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
• Pay for a one-year licence, priced at $30 (or the local equivalent) plus tax.

The enrolment option appears in Settings, then Windows Update, on eligible PCs. One licence can cover up to ten devices on the same account.

Tip: Enrol only through Windows Update in Settings. Ignore emails, calls or websites offering to "extend Windows 10 support" for a fee; they are scams.

Your options in order

1. Upgrade to Windows 11 for free if your PC meets the requirements. Check with the PC Health Check app or in Windows Update.
2. Enrol in ESU if the PC cannot upgrade yet, and use the time to plan.
3. Replace the PC when it suits you, ideally before ESU ends. Look for a model with many years of support. See AI PCs explained if you are shopping.
4. Give an older PC a new job: some can run a lightweight Linux system or ChromeOS Flex for browsing and email.

If you keep using Windows 10 without updates

We do not recommend it for anything important. If you must, do not use it for banking or shopping, keep the browser and antivirus up to date while they still support Windows 10, avoid opening unexpected attachments and keep good backups. The UK National Cyber Security Centre is clear that the only fully effective fix for an unsupported system is to stop using it. See Why old devices become a security risk.

Before you move to a new PC

• Back up your files. See How to back up your files and photos.
• Note your important software licences and passwords.
• When you finish, reset the old PC fully before selling, donating or recycling it.