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5 min read 6 stepsMay 11, 2026Verified May 2026

Windows 10 Support Already Ended — Here Is What to Do Now

Windows 10 stopped getting security updates in October 2025. Your PC still works, but here is what that means and how to stay safe.

At a Glance

Understand what "end of support" actually means

~31s

End of support means Microsoft no longer releases security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for Windows 10. Your computer still turns on, your files are still there, and your programs still run. But every new security weakness discovered after October 2025 will never be patched. Hackers know this and specifically target systems that no longer receive updates.

Quick Tip

Quick Tip: Think of it like a smoke detector with a dead battery. Your home looks the same and nothing is on fire right now — but you are no longer protected if something starts.

Check if your PC can run Windows 11

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Windows 11 is a free upgrade for most PCs made in 2017 or later — but your computer must meet specific hardware requirements. The easiest way to check is to download the free Microsoft PC Health Check app at microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11 and run it. It will tell you within 30 seconds whether your PC qualifies for a free upgrade. The main requirements are a processor from 2017 or newer and at least 64 GB of storage.

Warning

Some PCs from 2016 and earlier will not qualify for Windows 11. Microsoft is firm on the hardware requirements — they are not negotiable.

Upgrade to Windows 11 if your PC qualifies (free)

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If the PC Health Check app gives your PC a green light, upgrading is free and takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Open Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates. Look for "Windows 11 is available." Click Download and install. Windows will restart a few times during the process. Your files, programs, and settings will carry over. You do not need to do anything to preserve them ahead of time. After upgrading, Windows 11 will receive security updates through 2031.

Quick Tip

Quick Tip: If you do not see the Windows 11 offer in Windows Update, go directly to microsoft.com/software-download/windows11 and click "Download Windows 11 Disk Image." This starts the upgrade manually.

Buy a new computer if your PC does not qualify

~28s

If your PC is too old for Windows 11, upgrading is not an option — and continuing to use Windows 10 on an unsupported machine is a real security risk. A new Windows 11 laptop starts around $250 to $350 at Best Buy, Walmart, or Costco. These come with Windows 11 already installed and will be supported through at least 2031. If budget is a concern, refurbished Windows 11 computers from reputable sellers (Dell Refurbished, Amazon Renewed) start around $150 to $200.

If you must stay on Windows 10 temporarily, take extra precautions

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If you cannot upgrade or replace your computer right now, take three steps to reduce risk while you plan. First, stop using Windows 10 for banking, email, or any site that involves passwords. Use your phone instead for sensitive tasks. Second, make sure you have a reputable antivirus program installed and running — Windows Defender (built into Windows 10) still works but is no longer updated for new threats. A paid program like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender offers more recent threat definitions. Third, do not click links in emails or text messages at all until you are on a supported system.

Warning

Staying on Windows 10 indefinitely is not a safe long-term choice. Set a deadline — if you cannot upgrade or replace your computer within 90 days, treat every session as high-risk.

Extended Security Updates — one more option for a fee

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Microsoft is offering paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 through October 2028. The cost is $30 for the first year per personal computer. This gives you continued security patches for three more years without upgrading or buying a new computer. You can purchase ESU directly at microsoft.com/en-us/windows/end-of-support. This is a reasonable bridge option if you are on a fixed income and cannot afford a new PC right now, but plan to replace it eventually.

Quick Tip

Quick Tip: ESU is available to individuals for the first time with Windows 10 — previously it was only for businesses. It is a genuine Microsoft product, not a third-party service.

You Did It!

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Microsoft stopped releasing security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. If you are still running Windows 10, your computer has not received a single security patch since that date — and it will not receive any more, ever. That does not mean your computer broke or stopped working. It means the locks on the door are no longer being changed when someone finds a new way in.

This guide explains what that means in plain English and walks through your three real options: upgrade to Windows 11 for free (if your PC supports it), buy a new computer, or take extra precautions if you must keep Windows 10 temporarily.

Millions of Americans are still running Windows 10. If that is you, you are not alone — but you do need to act before the risk becomes real.

(Sources: Microsoft Windows lifecycle, microsoft.com/en-us/windows/end-of-support; Microsoft PC Health Check app, microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11)

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