The final countdown for Windows 10 has officially begun. Microsoft has confirmed it will end support for its widely used operating system on October 14, 2025. After that date, hundreds of millions of computers running Windows 10 Home and Pro editions will no longer get free security updates, non-security fixes, or technical assistance. This puts users in a position where they’ll need to decide whether to upgrade, buy a new device, or pay for continued protection.
Key Takeaways
- Final Date: Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025.
- Major Risk: PCs without updates will be vulnerable to malware, viruses, and other security threats.
- Main Solution: Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 for free on compatible PCs.
- Paid Option: Extended Security Updates (ESU) are available for up to three years at an additional cost.
For almost ten years, Windows 10 has been the go-to system for personal computing. But Microsoft has shifted its focus to Windows 11, and that leaves many users facing an uncomfortable reality. After the deadline, your Windows 10 device will technically still work, but relying on it online for everyday tasks like banking, shopping, or even casual browsing will carry growing risks. Without security patches, vulnerabilities remain wide open to cybercriminals.
Microsoft’s recommended route is clear: upgrade to Windows 11. The upgrade is free if your PC meets the minimum hardware requirements. However, the requirements themselves have been a sticking point for many. Windows 11 needs a modern processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, and support for advanced security features such as UEFI Secure Boot and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0. Plenty of computers sold just a few years ago don’t have the necessary TPM 2.0 chip, which means they cannot upgrade for free. To check compatibility, users can run Microsoft’s PC Health Check app.
If your computer isn’t eligible, you really have two main paths. One is buying a new PC that comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, which is the most secure long-term option. The other is opting into the Extended Security Updates program. This is something new for regular consumers, allowing them to pay for up to three extra years of critical security updates. The pricing is steep: $61 (about ₹5,100) for the first year, $122 (around ₹10,200) for the second, and $244 (around ₹20,400) for the third. It’s important to note that ESU only covers security patches; it doesn’t add new features or provide full technical support.
Not surprisingly, the deadline has already sparked debate online. Communities like Reddit are filled with frustration from users who see Microsoft’s strict hardware rules as unfair, potentially turning otherwise capable PCs into e-waste. In countries like India, where many people depend on older or budget-friendly hardware, the situation is even more difficult. The cost of either upgrading devices or paying the ESU subscription makes the transition a financial burden.
With October 2025 on the horizon, Windows 10 users will need to take a hard look at their options. Whether that means upgrading, replacing, or paying for extra coverage, staying secure will require a choice sooner rather than later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When exactly will Microsoft stop supporting Windows 10?
A: Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 Home and Pro editions on October 14, 2025.
Q2: Can I keep using my computer with Windows 10 after the deadline?
A: Yes, your computer will still work. However, it will not receive any new security updates, making it highly vulnerable to viruses and malware, especially if connected to the internet.
Q3: How do I know if my PC can be upgraded to Windows 11?
A: You can download and run the free “PC Health Check” application from Microsoft’s official website. It will scan your system and tell you if it meets the requirements for Windows 11.
Q4: Do I have to pay to upgrade to Windows 11?
A: No, the upgrade to Windows 11 is free for all eligible Windows 10 PCs.
Q5: What are Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10?
A: ESU is a paid service that provides critical security updates for Windows 10 for up to three years after the official end-of-support date. It is an option for users who cannot upgrade to Windows 11.
Q6: How much will the Windows 10 ESU program cost?
A: For consumers, the price is $61 for the first year, $122 for the second year, and $244 for the third year.
