Countdown to Windows 10 End of Support: Your Upgrade Options

The clock is ticking for Windows 10 users, as Microsoft gears up to wind down free support for the operating system. As of now, we have exactly one year left, with the final curtains to drop on October 14, 2025. This news is particularly crucial for anyone still relying on the aging OS, whether you're maintaining a small fleet of business machines or you’re just trying to keep your personal computer running without the usual hiccups.

What You Need to Know​

The Final Countdown​

Windows 10, originally unleashed upon the world in July 2015, is now considered a legacy operating system. Its overall support will be officially terminated in a mere 12 months. The last significant update was the May 2020 Update, which means users have been running on an outmoded platform relative to Windows 11, which has already seen several updates to enhance security and performance.

Why is Microsoft Ending Support for Windows 10?​

Let’s face it: Windows 10 is getting old. In Microsoft’s eyes, hanging onto the past just won't cut it anymore. After a decade, it’s time to move forward. While the operating system has been stable and reliable for many businesses and home users, the tech giant has decided that it’s time to usher in Windows 11, which promises better performance, security enhancements, and features tailored for modern hardware.

What Does End of Support Mean?​

The end of support translates to Microsoft discontinuing technical support and security updates for Windows 10. An alarming thought, considering that this means no more patches for vulnerabilities or bugs, leaving your system increasingly susceptible to various cyber threats.
It’s not just about Microsoft’s assistance; expect third-party apps and drivers to slowly phase out their support for Windows 10 as well. Over time, you may find cherished software or hardware starting to refuse to work as developers shift their focus towards supporting hovering apps built for recent versions of Windows.

Options: What’s Next?​

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11​

This is arguably the most straightforward option available. If your PC meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11, the upgrade is completely free. You can run the Windows PC Health Check app to see if your current setup qualifies, but be warned: if your machine was built before 2018, chances are you might need an upgrade just to stay in the loop.

Option 2: Buy a New Windows 11 PC​

If your existing hardware isn't up to snuff, this implies making a financial commitment towards purchasing a compatible Windows 11 machine. These come packed with the flair of the latest tech and are often your best bet against performance issues and security vulnerabilities.

Option 3: Pay for Windows 10 Updates​

Now, if Windows 11 isn’t your jam, you can always opt to pay for continued support on Windows 10. Unfortunately for consumers, Microsoft hasn’t revealed specific pricing yet, but for commercial users, fees will vary based on the number of devices.

Option 4: Move to Linux or Mac​

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, consider switching to Linux or Mac. Linux is often touted as a close-knit community’s friendly alternative, while macOS guarantees longevity with Apple’s track record of long-term support. Each option requires a learning curve, but they offer unique benefits for those willing to invest the time.

What If I Stay on Windows 10?​

Feeling lucky? While you technically could hold out on Windows 10, this is laden with risks. Over time, you would become more vulnerable to security threats as new kernel vulnerabilities emerge post-support. Although antivirus software may provide some level of defense, it can only do so much when the operating system itself isn’t receiving critical updates.
Interestingly, Windows 10 users have the Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) variant available until 2029, but this is primarily aimed at specific use cases like medical devices and isn’t accessible to general consumers.

End of Support Is Fast Approaching​

As much as Microsoft tries to provide an inclusive experience, it seems clear the “great Windows 10 support era” is rapidly drawing to a close. If you’re keen to keep your digital life secure and ticking along, it’s time to explore new avenues outside of Windows 10. Just remember: It’s not just about updating your OS; it’s about safeguarding your tech ecosystem for the years to come.
So, gear up, Windows users! The countdown is real, and your next move could define your computing experience for the foreseeable future.
Source: Windows Central PSA: Windows 10 has entered its final year of free support — here's what you need to know