Windows 10 Support Has Ended: 2026 Guide to Stay Secure and Upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 10 support officially ended on October 14, 2025. That means Microsoft no longer provides free security updates, bug fixes, or new features for most home and small‑business users. Running an out‑of‑support system makes your PC more vulnerable to viruses, malware, and hackers. However, Microsoft offers a free 1-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, which provides critical security patches for a limited time but it’s only a temporary safety net. If you’re still on Windows 10 in 2026, you should treat this as a grace period to secure your data and plan your move to Windows 11. In this article, you’ll learn what Windows 10 end of support actually means, and how to upgrade to Windows 11 step by step. In addition, we have a few tips that help stay secure on Windows 10 if your hardware is too old and can’t run Windows 11.

What “End of Support” Actually Means for Windows 10?

When an operating system reaches the end of support, Microsoft stops releasing free security updates, bug fixes, and most forms of technical assistance for it. Over time, newly discovered vulnerabilities will no longer be patched, recent apps and drivers may stop supporting it, and you’ll have fewer options if something goes wrong. In other words, Windows 10 will keep working, but it will become less secure and less compatible the longer you stay on it after October 2025.

Since October 14, 2025, Windows 10 devices have been operating in a “security risk zone” unless enrolled in the ESU program.

• No Security Updates: Unpatched vulnerabilities are left open to exploitation.
• No Tech Support: Microsoft Customer Service no longer assists with Windows 10 issues.
• Software Risks: While apps like browsers may still work, they may eventually stop updating on an unsupported OS.
• It Still Runs: Your PC does not stop working. It functions normally, but it is no longer secure.

Important: Microsoft 365 Apps (Word, Excel, etc.) will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 until October 10, 2028, but will not receive new features. However, the underlying OS remains vulnerable without ESU or an upgrade .

Is Windows 10 Still Safe to Use in 2026?

Short answer: Only for a limited time, and only if you’re covered by Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates.

• Mainstream support ended: October 14, 2025.
• Extended Security Updates (ESU): Microsoft offers a free 1‑year ESU program to deliver critical security patches for eligible Windows 10 installations after end of support.

Even with ESU, Windows 10 is now in a grace period, not an ideal long‑term platform. Eventually, ESU will end, and your system will no longer receive critical security updates.

Recommendation: Use ESU as a temporary safety net while you prepare and upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as practical.

Feature	Windows 10 (with ESU)	Windows 11
Security Updates	Critical only (until Oct 2026)	Full security & feature updates
Cost	Free with Microsoft account	Free for eligible users
Technical Support	None	Full Microsoft Support
New Features	None (OS is frozen)	Copilot, Snap Layouts, etc.
Hardware Req.	Low (Works on old PCs)	High (TPM 2.0, New CPU)
Long-Term Viability	Ends Oct 2026	Indefinite

Note: If you use a local account (not a Microsoft account), you must sign in with a Microsoft account to enroll in ESU. The license is tied to the Microsoft account, not just the hardware.

Should You Upgrade to Windows 11 Right Now?

Different users are in different situations. Here’s how to decide what to do in 2026:

Upgrade now if:

• You use your PC for work, online banking, or sensitive data.
• Your hardware already meets Windows 11 requirements.
• You want the latest features, including Copilot and other AI enhancements (on supported devices).
• You plan to keep this PC for several more years.

You can wait briefly (but not too long) if:

• You are still covered by free Windows 10 ESU and everything is working reliably.
• You need time to test critical apps, peripherals, or workflows on Windows 11.
• You are preparing backups, storage cleanup, or a maintenance window.

Consider replacing your PC if:

• Your CPU, TPM, or Secure Boot are not supported for Windows 11.
• Your hardware is very old or low‑end and may run Windows 11 poorly.
• You’re due for a hardware refresh anyway and want a device built for Windows 11.

If your PC cannot run Windows 11 officially, skipping risky workarounds and planning for a new machine is often safer than trying to force the upgrade. (Microsoft recommends)

Step 1: Check If Your PC Is Compatible With Windows 11 (Updated for 2026)

Windows 11 requires specific hardware. If your device doesn’t meet these requirements, the upgrade will not install through official methods.

Windows 11 System Requirements (2026)

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64‑bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC) from Microsoft’s supported list (Intel, AMD, Qualcomm)
• Memory: 4 GB RAM or more (8 GB or higher recommended)
• Storage: 64 GB or more available storage
• System firmware: UEFI, with Secure Boot capability
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
• Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver
• Display: 9″ or larger with at least 720p resolution
• Internet connection & Microsoft account: Required for Windows 11 Home setup and for some features

For the most accurate and up‑to‑date hardware list, especially for supported Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm processors, always check Microsoft’s official Windows 11 requirements page.

Use the PC Health Check App

If you’re not sure about your hardware configuration:

1. Download the official PC Health Check app from Microsoft’s website.
2. Install and run it on your Windows 10 PC.
3. Click Check now under the Windows 11 section.
4. The tool will tell you whether your PC meets Windows 11 requirements and, if not, what is missing (for example, TPM, Secure Boot, or CPU support).

Step 2: Back Up Your Important Files

Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is usually safe, but any major OS upgrade carries some risk. Before you start, create a backup to protect your data.

You can use one or more of these options:

• Windows Backup: Go to Settings > Accounts > Windows Backup and back up your important settings and files.
• OneDrive: Sync key folders (Desktop, Documents, Pictures) to the cloud so your files are safe even if something goes wrong.
• External Drive: Use File History or manually copy your important folders to an external USB flash drive or external hard drive.

Tip: For extra safety, create a System Image or System Restore Point so you can roll back if the upgrade fails.

Also, make sure:

• You have at least 20–30 GB of free disk space on your system drive.
• You are running the latest version of Windows 10 (install all pending updates first).
• You use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense to delete temporary files and free up space.
• You disconnect unnecessary external devices (printers, scanners, extra USB drives, etc.) before starting the upgrade.
• You temporarily disable or uninstall third‑party antivirus software that can interfere with the upgrade.

Quick Upgrade Tips

• Start the upgrade when you don’t need the PC for 2–3 hours.
• Keep laptops plugged into power during the entire process.
• Make sure your browser data (bookmarks, passwords) is synced to your account.
• Note down or back up any important license keys for paid apps just in case.

Step 3: Method 1 – Upgrade to Windows 11 via Windows Update

The easiest and most recommended way to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is using Windows Update.

1. On your Windows 10 PC, open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. If your PC is eligible, you should see a message such as “Upgrade to Windows 11 is ready.”
5. Click Download and install.
6. Accept the license terms to begin downloading the Windows 11 upgrade files from Microsoft’s servers.

The download and installation time will depend on your internet speed and system performance. During installation, your PC may restart several times.

Once the upgrade completes:

• Your PC will restart into Windows 11.
• Follow the on‑screen steps to finish setup (see “How to Set Up Windows 11” below).

Already on Windows 11? Get the Latest Version (25H2)

If you are already using Windows 11, you should update to the latest feature update, such as Windows 11 25H2, to get new features and security improvements.

1. Open Settings on your Windows 11 device.
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Turn on Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.
4. Click Check for updates and install any available feature update (such as 24H2).

As of 2026, Windows 11 25H2 brings performance improvements, updated security, and newer AI features on supported hardware.

Step 4: Method 2 – Use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant

If Windows Update does not offer the Windows 11 upgrade, or the download fails, you can use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant provided by Microsoft. This is ideal for many older but still supported PCs.

• Visit Microsoft’s Download Windows 11 page in your browser.
• Under the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section, click Download Now.

• Locate the downloaded file, usually named Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe.
• Right‑click it and select Run as administrator.
• Click Yes if User Account Control (UAC) prompts for permission.
• The Assistant will check your system for Windows 11 compatibility.
• When the license screen appears, click Accept and install to proceed.

The tool will then:

• Download the necessary Windows 11 files from Microsoft’s servers.
• Verify the download.
• Begin the installation process.

When installation completes, you’ll be prompted to restart your device. After restarting, your PC should boot into Windows 11.

Tip: The Installation Assistant is the best option when Windows Update doesn’t show the upgrade prompt, but your device is compatible.

Step 5: How to Set Up Windows 11 After the Upgrade

After upgrading, a quick setup helps personalize your PC and ensure everything runs smoothly.

• Sign in with your Microsoft account (recommended) to sync settings, OneDrive, and Microsoft Store apps.
• Choose Express settings or customize privacy and diagnostic options according to your preferences.
• Pin your most‑used apps—such as Edge, Notepad, or File Explorer—to the Start menu or taskbar.
• Open Settings > Windows Update and install any additional updates or drivers.
• Open the Microsoft Store to reinstall your favorite apps or update existing ones.
• If some devices (for example, Wi‑Fi, audio, printers) don’t work correctly, visit your PC manufacturer’s website (Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.) to download the latest Windows 11 drivers.
• Re‑enable antivirus or third‑party security tools you disabled before the upgrade.

Spend a few minutes exploring Windows 11’s new Start menu, Settings layout, and features like virtual desktops and Snap Layouts so you can take full advantage of the upgrade.

What If Your PC Can’t Run Windows 11?

Not all Windows 10 PCs are compatible with Windows 11. If the PC Health Check app or the Installation Assistant says your device is not supported, you have a few options.

1. Use Windows 10 ESU Temporarily

If your device is still receiving Extended Security Updates, you can remain on Windows 10 for the short time ESU is available. However:

• ESU is limited‑time only.
• After ESU ends, you will no longer get security updates.

Use this period to plan your next step rather than staying on Windows 10 indefinitely.

2. Plan for a New or Refurbished PC

The safest long‑term solution is to move to hardware that fully supports Windows 11:

• Consider buying a new or certified refurbished PC designed for Windows 11.
• Look for TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a supported modern CPU.

This gives you better performance, longer support, and access to all new features.

3. Avoid Risky Workarounds

There are unofficial methods to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware using registry tweaks or modified installation media. However, these come with important downsides:

• You may not receive all updates or future feature releases.
• Microsoft could change enforcement and block future upgrades.
• You might have stability or driver issues, and OEMs may not support this setup.

Because of these risks, it’s usually better to:

• Stay on Windows 10 with ESU only as a short‑term bridge, and
• Plan a transition to supported hardware or a different operating system instead of relying on unsupported installations.

How to Stay as Secure as Possible on Windows 10

If you have to stay on Windows 10 for a little longer, follow these tips to reduce your risk until you can move to Windows 11.

• Make sure ESU is enabled and updates are installing
  Keep Windows Update turned on and install all available security updates as soon as they appear.
• Use a reputable security suite
  Run Microsoft Defender or a trusted third‑party antivirus, and keep it updated.
• Avoid risky software and downloads
  Don’t install pirated programs, random toolbars, or software from unknown websites. Stick to well‑known vendors.
• Use a modern browser and keep it updated
  Use the latest version of Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox, and enable automatic updates.
• Be extra careful with email and links
  Don’t open attachments or click links from unknown senders. Phishing and malware are bigger risks on older systems.
• Limit what you do on that PC
  Avoid online banking, shopping, or storing sensitive data on a Windows 10 machine you plan to keep long‑term.

These steps don’t make Windows 10 a long‑term solution, but they can help you stay safer while you prepare your upgrade or new PC.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until You’re Forced to Move

Windows 10’s mainstream support ended on October 14, 2025, and Microsoft’s free 1‑year Extended Security Updates program only buys a limited amount of extra time. If you’re still on Windows 10 in 2026, it’s important to start planning your upgrade now.

Next steps:

• Run PC Health Check to confirm whether your PC supports Windows 11.
• Back up your important files and make sure you have enough free storage.
• Try upgrading via Windows Update first; if you don’t see the prompt, use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.
• If your PC is not supported, begin planning for a Windows 11‑ready device so you’re not stuck on an increasingly insecure system.

By upgrading in a controlled, prepared way—while ESU is still available—you avoid last‑minute stress and keep your PC secure, compatible, and ready for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions