All about Windows 10 end of support

Windows 10 is turning 10 years old, and it's also going away soon. The end of support for Windows 10 is fast approaching. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing security updates, bug fixes, and technical support for Windows 10. Users should upgrade to Windows 11 or a newer version of Windows to continue receiving necessary security updates and support.

Here's everything you need to know about Windows 10 end of support

1. When will Windows 10 support end?

October 14, 2025

2. Can I continue to use my Windows 10 PC after this date?

Yes, your computer will not 'self-destruct' on October 15. However, running a computer without security updates is risky. The solution is to enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program to receive an additional year of security patches.

3. Will apps and games work after the support date?

1. Yes, but only for a short time. Developers will gradually stop supporting Windows 10.
2. Microsoft 365 will receive new features until August 2026 and security patches until October 10, 2028.
3. There is currently no information on when support for popular applications like Chrome or Adobe will end.

4. What is the ESU program?

A paid service plan that provides additional security patches for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025.

It's worth noting that the Extended Security Updates program only grants access to security patches and fixes, so don't expect new features and major changes during that time.

5. When will I receive the ESU patch?

1. Individual users: 12 months (October 14, 2025 – October 13, 2026).
2. Business: Up to 3 years.

6. Is ESU free?

1. Personal: Free if you back up your settings to OneDrive, or pay 1,000 Microsoft Reward Points (~$30).
2. Business: Pay by number of machines/year.
3. Note: Applicable to up to 10 devices with the same Microsoft account, each device must be registered separately.

7. What are the conditions for applying to ESU?

1. Windows 10 version 22H2 (latest update).
2. Valid editions: Home, Pro, Pro for Workstations, Pro Education.
3. Sign in with a Microsoft account and have Administrator rights.
4. Not applicable to devices in Kiosk mode, joined to Entra/Active Directory, or managed with MDM.

You can check your Windows 10 version by going to Settings > System > About .

8. Is there a free upgrade to Windows 11?

1. Yes, if your PC hardware meets the system requirements.
2. For machines that do not meet the requirements, it is still possible to install using the unofficial method.

9. Other options for PCs that don't support Windows 11?

1. Use third-party security patches (for example, 0patch offers 5 years of paid support).
2. Switch to another operating system (Linux, ChromeOS Flex.).
3. Upgrade your hardware to meet Windows 11 requirements.

10. What to do after October 15, 2026?

Microsoft has no plans to extend ESU at this time. You should:

1. Upgrade to Windows 11.
2. Or accept the security risks if you continue using Windows 10.

Warning: Unpatched PCs Are Easy Targets for Malware and Ransomware!

See also:

1. Windows 11 system requirements
2. Follow the article to update new information from Microsoft.

Do you have any questions about this issue? Leave a comment below!

Lesley Montoya

Update 22 July 2025