Microsoft will end Windows 10 support on October 14th, 2025. You must have many queries, like is Windows 10 still safe to use after the support ended and what to do when the support for Windows 10 runs out. Don’t worry. In this guide, MiniTool will teach you how to save older PC when Windows 10 hits end of life.
Windows 10 End of Life
During the announcements of the Windows 11 rollout, Microsoft declared that it will no longer release any regular updates to Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. That is to say, once a product reaches the end of support, or service retires, there will be no new security updates, non-security updates, or assisted support.
In this case, many people who are running Windows 10 had better make corresponding measures as deadlines loom, particularly for those who haven’t updated to Windows 11 and whose computers don’t support the greatly increased system requirements.
While there is still time to make a choice, pick out a suitable path from the following options to save older PC when Windows 10 hits end of life.
How to Save Older PC When Windows 10 Hits End of Life
Option 1. Purchase Extended Support
Microsoft announced it will offer a way to keep getting security updates for Windows 10 PCs. It’s called the Extended Security Update (ESU) program, and this program can let you extend your Windows 10 PC’s life.
However, Microsoft is going to charge for these updates. The ESU program for consumers will be a one-year option available for 30 dollars, continuing to provide Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus through at least October 2028. It will not include new features, though, just security fixes.
Option 2. Upgrade to Windows 11
Check if your computer meets the basic requirements for Windows 11 with the following references.
- CPU: A 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.
- RAM: A minimum of 4GB RAM.
- Storage Space: 64 GB or larger storage device.
- TPM: TPM version 2.0 enabled.
- Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
- Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p) display.
If your computer is eligible for Windows 11, then you should upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11. If not, you’d better not install Windows 11 on your device since there may be compatibility issues and bugs, and your PC may not receive future updates.
Option 3. Switch to Linux System
If you don’t want to use Microsoft anymore when Windows 10 runs out of support, you could consider switching to the Linux operating system, though, it won’t run all Windows software and some peripherals may not work with it.
Linux system is user-friendly and capable, offering you security updates for free. Beyond that, it is also highly compatible with games. Try Ubuntu which is a popular desktop Linux distribution to download and install Linux Desktop.
Related article: Linux vs Windows – What Are the Differences (Focus on 10 Aspects)
Option 4. Keep Using Windows 10 Without Updates
Your Windows 10 PC won’t suddenly stop working as soon as it’s out of support. But the point is it gets less and less secure after it doesn’t get security updates. In this case, if you want to continue using Windows 10 without security updates, then it’s imperative for you to take the following protections.
1. Use the Best Third-Party Protection
Enable all antivirus features & firewalls and obtain reliable and good third-party security software to protect your computer.
Be extra vigilant about what you do online. For instance, do not visit dodgy websites; do not download and install applications from unauthorized sources or things you don’t know; do not open attachments or links from unknown sender, etc.
2. Keep Programs Up-to-date
Windows 10 doesn’t get updates does not mean that other programs on your computer cannot be updated. Thus, keep a close watch on whether your software has been updated to the latest version at all times.
3. Backup System
It’s impossible to foresee what security holes on your computer will be found after support ends. What’s worse is the more security risks there are, the more dangerous your data will be. Therefore, it’s highly recommended you back up your important data or the entire system to an external hard drive. Here we get an all-in-one backup software – MiniTool ShadowMaker for you.
MiniTool ShadowMaker TrialClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
This freeware enables you to backup files, folders, disks, partitions, and system, cloning disks, syncing files, and so forth.
Final Words
How to save older PC when Windows 10 hits end of life? After reading this guide, I believe now you have a clear understanding. Appreciate your support!
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