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Windows 10 End of Support: What Are Your Options?

October 14, 2025 marks the end of Microsoft’s support for Windows 10. This means no more security updates or technical support. If you’re a Windows 10 user, it’s time to consider your options. This article will guide you through the choices you have, from sticking with Windows 10, to upgrading, to switching operating systems.

The End of Windows 10 Support: What It Means For You

After October 14, 2025, your Windows 10 computer will continue to work, but without security updates, it will become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Ignoring this issue can be risky, especially if you use your computer for sensitive tasks such as online banking or shopping. While antivirus software is important, it doesn’t replace the need for OS updates.

Three Categories of Windows 10 Users

Microsoft expects Windows 10 users to fall into three groups:

• Those with computers that support Windows 11 and want to upgrade.
• Those with computers that support Windows 11 but prefer to stay on Windows 10.
• Those with computers that do not officially support Windows 11.

Your Options When Windows 10 Support Ends

Doing Nothing: A Risky Choice

Technically, you can continue using Windows 10 after support ends. However, using it online without security updates exposes you to potential risks. If you are offline, this may be a viable, but inconvenient option.

Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for up to three years. Unlike previous versions, these will be available to home users, as well as education and enterprise customers. The price will increase every year. While the pricing for commercial and educational customers has been revealed, the price for home users has not yet been announced, but it is expected to be announced soon. The first year will cost $1 for education users and $61 for commercial users.

• Extended Security Updates (ESU) will be sold to home users.

Keep an eye on Microsoft’s website for the announcement: microsoft.com.

Third-Party Security Updates

Companies like 0patch offer security updates for out-of-support versions of Windows. For Windows 10, this comes at a yearly subscription. However, consider if a third party can patch Windows as efficiently as Microsoft.

Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) Versions of Windows 10

Certain enterprise versions of Windows 10 have extended support. Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 is supported until January 12, 2027, while Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019 has extended support until January 9, 2029. These versions are designed for systems where stability is critical but are only available legitimately through volume licenses.

Unofficial Windows 11 Upgrade

If your computer doesn’t officially support Windows 11, you can bypass the compatibility checks to install it. While this can be done, it’s not recommended by Microsoft. You may encounter issues and might need to reinstall every year to keep getting security updates.

• For many home users an unofficial Windows 11 install may be a perfectly viable option.

Switching to Linux

Consider switching to a Linux distribution like Linux Mint, Zorin OS, Ubuntu, or Fedora. These are free and open-source alternatives to Windows. However, be aware that Linux does not natively run Windows applications. Many Windows and other programs offer a cloud-based solution that will run on Linux.

• If you are considering Linux, do your research and test a live version.

Switching to ChromeOS-Based Systems

Another option is to use a ChromeOS-based system. ChromeOS Flex is an excellent cloud-based operating system that can run Linux apps. Another option is phos, which is also cloud based but also runs android and linux based apps. These are good for basic online tasks and may be a good alternative to Windows.

Other Alternative Operating Systems

Other Operating Systems such as Free BSD (with different variations) and Haiku can also be considered. As for Harmony OS for PC, it is expected to come out by October 2025.

Making Your Decision

With so many options available, making the right choice requires careful evaluation. This depends on your needs, tech skills, and budget.

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