Windows 10 End of Support: What to Do Now, Step by Step

Windows 10 end of support: what to do now? The short answer is: don’t panic, but do make a plan. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Your computer did not stop working that day, but it no longer gets the regular security fixes that protect it from new viruses and attacks. This guide walks you through your options in a sensible order: check whether your PC can move to Windows 11 for free, back up, buy more time with Extended Security Updates if you need it, and decide what to do with a computer that cannot upgrade.

This is an independent guide, not affiliated with Microsoft. For licensing or account questions, use Microsoft’s own support website.

What “end of support” actually means

End of support is about updates, not about your PC shutting down:

• Your PC keeps working. It starts, runs your programs, browses the web and opens your files as before.
• No more regular security updates. When new security holes are discovered in Windows 10, Microsoft no longer fixes them for unsupported PCs. Over time that makes the computer an easier target.
• No new features or technical help from Microsoft for Windows 10.
• Programs will slowly drop support. Browsers, antivirus tools and other software makers will eventually stop updating their Windows 10 versions. Microsoft’s page notes that Microsoft 365 Apps keep receiving security updates on Windows 10 for a while longer, but not forever.

So the risk grows gradually. A Windows 10 PC used for email, banking and shopping is the one that most needs a plan.

Step 1: Back up your files first

Whatever you choose next, protect your documents and photos before you change anything. Copy them to an external drive and to a cloud service, so you have more than one copy. Our guide to the 3-2-1 backup rule explains a simple setup that works for most homes. Microsoft’s Windows Backup app can also save files and settings to OneDrive and help move them to a new Windows 11 PC.

Step 2: Check whether your PC can run Windows 11

If your PC meets the requirements, the upgrade to Windows 11 is free. There are two easy ways to check:

1. Windows Update: open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If your PC is eligible, you may see an offer to download Windows 11. Microsoft says the free upgrade is for PCs running Windows 10 version 22H2 that meet the minimum hardware specifications.
2. PC Health Check: this free Microsoft app tells you whether the PC qualifies and, if not, which requirement it fails. It is often already installed; otherwise get it from Microsoft’s Windows 11 web page, not from a third-party download site.

The most common failures are the TPM 2.0 chip, Secure Boot or an older processor. Sometimes TPM or Secure Boot is just switched off in the firmware settings. Our guide on PCs that don’t meet Windows 11 requirements explains what each message means and what you can safely change.

Step 3: Upgrade if you are eligible

When Windows Update offers Windows 11, choose Download and install. Plug in a laptop, make sure you have time (it can take an hour or more), and let it restart as needed. Your files and most programs normally come across, which is why the backup in Step 1 is a safety net rather than a chore. After upgrading, open Settings > Windows Update in Windows 11 and install any remaining updates. If you run into problems afterwards, see Windows Update stuck checking for updates.

Step 4: Need more time? Extended Security Updates

Microsoft runs a consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for home users who cannot move yet. According to Microsoft’s end-of-support page, as checked on October 14, 2026:

• ESU delivers critical and important security updates for enrolled PCs through October 12, 2027, regardless of when you enroll.
• The PC must run Windows 10 version 22H2 for personal use; you enroll through a built-in option in Settings (Windows Update) on eligible PCs.
• You need to sign in with a Microsoft account.
• Microsoft lists three ways to enroll: at no additional cost if you sync your PC settings with Windows Backup, by redeeming Microsoft Rewards points, or by a one-time purchase.
• Options and timing can vary by region, such as in the European Economic Area.

ESU includes security fixes only: no new features and no general technical help. Treat it as extra time to plan, not a permanent solution. Details can change, so confirm on Microsoft’s end-of-support page before you decide.

Step 5: If your PC cannot run Windows 11

You have a few honest choices:

Option	Good for	Things to know
Buy a new PC (or a refurbished one with Windows 11)	Most people, especially for banking and work	Costs money; move files with your backup or Windows Backup
ChromeOS Flex	Older PCs used mainly for web browsing and email	Free from Google, but installing it erases the drive; not every model is supported; Windows programs will not run
Linux (for example Ubuntu or Linux Mint)	Confident users comfortable learning something new	Free, but there is a learning curve; many Windows programs and some printers or scanners may not work
Keep Windows 10 offline	An old program or device that only works on Windows 10	Disconnect from the internet and avoid email and browsing on that PC

Before installing ChromeOS Flex or Linux, check the project’s own hardware list or help pages, and back up first.

Staying safe in the meantime

If you keep using Windows 10 for now:

• Keep Microsoft Defender or your antivirus on and updated. See threats found in Windows Security if it warns you.
• Keep your browser up to date, since most attacks arrive through the web and email.
• Use a standard user account for daily use and strong, unique passwords with two-factor authentication on important accounts.
• Do your banking on a supported device, such as an up-to-date phone, if your PC is unprotected.

Beware of “your Windows 10 has expired” scams

Scammers love deadlines. You may see pop-ups, emails or calls claiming your Windows 10 “has expired”, your license is blocked, or your PC is infected, with a number to call. Microsoft does not do this. Never call a number from a pop-up, never let a stranger take remote control of your PC, and never pay with gift cards. Learn to spot a fake tech support call and recognize a phishing email. If you already let someone in, follow what to do after a tech support scam.

Recycling or passing on your old PC

When you replace a Windows 10 computer, wipe it first: after your backup, open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC and choose Remove everything (choose the option to clean the drive if you are giving it away). Then:

• Trade it in or recycle it. Many retailers and PC makers run trade-in and recycling programs, and Microsoft lists some on its end-of-support page.
• In the US, the EPA’s electronics donation and recycling page lists options; in Canada, provincial electronics recycling programs accept computers.
• Do not put it in household trash. Computers contain batteries and materials that should be recycled properly.

For more Windows help, browse the Windows topic hub.