Windows 10 End of Life October 2025
Table of contents
What is end of life?
First, let’s understand what Windows 10 end of life means. “End of life”, “EOL”, and “end of support” are terms used to refer to the point at which technical support and security updates for Windows 10 are no longer available. After 10 years, this older version of Windows will not receive any free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes. For consumers, “end of support” means that it is recommended by Microsoft to update to the latest version of Windows to receive the latest critical updates and support, which can help keep you secure online.
When will Windows 10 going end of life?
October 14th, 2025.
What happens to my PC when Windows 10 reaches the end of the support date?
Effective October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, feature updates, security updates, or fixes for PCs running Windows 10. Although your Windows 10 PC will continue to function, it will be more vulnerable to viruses and malware once the support period ends. We strongly advise you to switch to a supported version of Windows. If your current device is incompatible with Windows 11, purchasing a new PC that can run Windows 11 will provide you with a seamless transition and an improved user experience.
Will my Windows 10 PC stop working?
Your PC will continue to function with Windows 10, but Microsoft has discontinued its support. This means that after October 14, 2025, your Windows 10 PC will no longer receive security updates and Microsoft will not be available for technical support related to Windows 10.
What options do I have for staying supported on a Windows operating system?
Check if your PC meets the minimum requirements by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update.
If your computer meets the system requirements for upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, you should see an option to update to Windows 11 for free in the Windows Update settings. However, if your computer is not compatible with Windows 11 or if you prefer to get a new device, you can switch to Windows 11 by buying a new computer that comes with it pre-installed.
Can I upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
The upgrade from Windows 10 Home or Pro to the equivalent edition of Windows 11 is free. This means that if you have Windows 10 Pro, you can upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for free. To check if this option is available to you, simply open Settings, then go to Privacy and Security, and finally, Windows Update. If your PC meets the minimum system requirements and is compatible with the upgrade, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
For users who are in S mode, the upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 Home or Pro edition in S mode is also free. If your PC meets the minimum system requirements, you can upgrade from Windows 10 Home Edition in S mode to Windows 11 Home Edition in S mode. However, if your PC is running the Pro edition in S mode, you will need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. It’s important to note that Windows 11 Pro edition is not available in S mode.
What is the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program?
ESU is a paid program that will allow enrolled PCs to continue receiving Critical and Important security updates even after support for Windows 10 ends. Please note that the program will only provide Critical and Important security updates and will not offer other types of updates or technical support. The final pricing and enrollment conditions for the program will be announced closer to the October 2025 date for the end of support.
How is Windows 11 security better than Windows 10 security?
Windows 11 is designed to be the most secure version of Windows to date. It comes equipped with a range of advanced security features including antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means that you can rest assured knowing that your device is well protected against potential threats. Additionally, Windows 11 offers regular updates to ensure that you are always up-to-date with the latest security features.
Which edition of Windows 11 is right for me?
Windows 11 Home is a great operating system for personal and home use. On the other hand, Windows 11 Pro includes all the features of Windows 11 Home and adds extra features such as BitLocker, remote desktop, and domain join to cater to professionals.
Will my Microsoft 365 apps be supported when Windows 10 reaches the end of support?
When Windows 10 reaches its end of support on October 14, 2025, Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be supported on this operating system as it will no longer meet the system requirements for these apps. To ensure continuity of support, you can either upgrade your device to Windows 11 or set up your existing Microsoft 365 subscription on a new computer.
How will the end of support for Windows 10 affect my Microsoft Office apps?
Starting October 14, 2025, Office 2016 and Office 2019 will also reach the end of support. To remain supported we recommend you consider one of the Microsoft 365 subscription options or you can install the non-subscription supported version currently available, Office 2021.
