⚠️ What Happens Post–October 14, 2025?

• Windows 10 will continue working, but will no longer be updated, leaving it vulnerable to new threats PureinfotechMicrosoft.

• Security risks will grow over time as unpatched vulnerabilities accumulate, making your system a target for malware, ransomware, and other exploits .

• Software compatibility may decline, as developers drop Windows 10 support and Microsoft ceases compatibility updates for Microsoft 365 apps The Windows Club+15Pureinfotech+15Wired+15.

✅ Your Options at a Glance

1. Upgrade to Windows 11 (Free if Eligible)

• Best long-term solution: secure, regularly updated, and loaded with new features and performance improvements .

• Most PCs meeting basic specs (1 GHz dual‑core CPU, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, TPM 2.0) qualify Laptop Mag.

• Use PC Health Check or Windows Update → “Check for updates” to see if you’re eligible Geeky Gadgets+8techadvisory.org+8The Windows Club+8.

2. Continue with Windows 10 + Extended Security Updates (ESU)

• Microsoft offers an ESU program:

  • Consumers: $30 for one additional year of critical updates (until late 2026) techadvisory.org+9Wikipedia+9Beebom+9.

  • Businesses: $61 for year one, doubling annually up to three years (until 2028) Digital Citizen+2Computerworld+2Beebom+2.

• Free one-year ESU available via Windows Backup or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points Microsoft+6Computerworld+6Times of India+6.

3. Buy a New Windows 11 PC

• Ideal if your current system fails to meet Windows 11 requirements. Buying a modern laptop or desktop is often easier and more efficient than upgrading old hardware TechRadar+5Laptop Mag+5techadvisory.org+5.

4. Switch to Another OS (Linux / ChromeOS Flex)

• Linux (e.g., Ubuntu, Mint) offers secure, free, regularly updated alternatives—great for tech-savvy users .

• ChromeOS Flex transforms your PC into a lightweight, web-first Chromebook experience Pureinfotech+1Wired+1.

5. Use Windows 10 IoT or LTSC Versions (Specialized Needs)

• Windows 10 LTSC (IoT Enterprise) is supported until 2032, but is intended for specialized equipment and not general consumer use Laptop Mag+11Laptop Mag+11Pureinfotech+11.

🛠 Recommended Action Plan

1. Check Windows 11 compatibility using PC Health Check or via Windows Update.

2. Back up your data—use OneDrive or external storage Pureinfotech+5The Windows Club+5techadvisory.org+5Microsoft.

3. Decide based on results:

   • Eligible → Upgrade to Windows 11.

   • Ineligible but need more time → Use ESU or consider alternative OS.

   • Hardware outdated → Upgrade your PC.

4. If sticking with Windows 10, invest in:

   • Antivirus software

   • Regular updates for all apps

   • Strong browsing habits Digital Citizen+8techadvisory.org+8Pureinfotech+8Laptop Mag+14The Windows Club+14Beebom+14TechRadar+1Microsoft+1Wired.

🧭 Final Thoughts

• Free Windows 11 upgrade is your safest and most future-proof option.

• ESU can be a viable fallback if you need extra time.

• Switching OS or hardware makes sense if you’re seeking longevity or enhanced security.

• Using Windows 10 past end of support is risky—security threats and software issues will grow over time