- How long will Windows 10 still get security updates?
- What happens after Windows 10 reaches End of Life?
- Can I still use Windows 10?
- Why switch to Windows 11?
- Benefits of Windows 11
- Is there an End of Life date for Windows 11?
- What to consider before upgrading
- Check system requirements
- Upgrade or clean install?
- Drivers and software
- What if I don’t get the Windows 11 upgrade?
- Buy a new PC or upgrade existing hardware?
- Do I have to switch to Windows 11?
- Alternatives to Windows
Windows 10 has been one of the most popular operating systems for years, but like any software, its lifecycle eventually ends. On October 14, 2025, support will officially stop – meaning no more free security updates, bug fixes, or new features.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- how long Windows 10 will still receive updates,
- what happens after support ends,
- whether you can continue using Windows 10,
- the benefits of switching to Windows 11,
- what to do if your device doesn’t get the upgrade,
- and which alternatives you might consider.
How long will Windows 10 still get security updates?
Support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025. After that, there will be no more free security updates for home users. Only businesses that pay for extended support agreements will continue to get updates for a limited time. For most private users, this means Windows 10 will gradually become less secure starting in late 2025.
What happens after Windows 10 reaches End of Life?
After support ends, you can technically keep using Windows 10, but:
- No more security updates – new vulnerabilities remain unpatched.
- New software or drivers may no longer be compatible.
- Microsoft will stop offering technical support.
- Over time, the risk of viruses or cyberattacks will increase.
Can I still use Windows 10?
Yes – for basic tasks like browsing, office work, or older games, you can continue to use Windows 10 after 2025. However, security risks will rise steadily. Long term, it’s strongly recommended to move to a supported operating system.
Why switch to Windows 11?
Benefits of Windows 11
- Ongoing security updates and feature improvements
- Modern security features like Secure Boot and TPM 2.0
- New functions such as Snap Layouts, Widgets, and a redesigned interface
- Better driver and hardware support
- A future-proof system for the coming years
Is there an End of Life date for Windows 11?
Currently, there is no fixed date. Eventually, Windows 11 will be replaced by a newer version, but for now it remains fully supported.
What to consider before upgrading
Check system requirements
Windows 11 has stricter requirements than Windows 10 (TPM 2.0, newer CPUs, Secure Boot). Tools like WhyNotWin11 can help you check compatibility.
Upgrade or clean install?
- An in-place upgrade is the easiest option if your hardware is compatible.
- For a clean, fresh system, a new installation is best – but make sure to back up your data first.
- Tools like Rufus can bypass certain hardware checks if needed.
Drivers and software
After upgrading, you should update your drivers and verify that your essential programs run smoothly under Windows 11.
What if I don’t get the Windows 11 upgrade?
If your PC doesn’t meet the requirements, you still have a few options:
- Use tools that bypass checks (Rufus, Ventoy, FlyBy11).
- Perform a clean installation using a modified installation medium.
- Consider buying a new PC if your current hardware is very old.
Buy a new PC or upgrade existing hardware?
If your computer is several years old, investing in new hardware can make more sense than forcing an upgrade.
- For everyday use like browsing, school, or office tasks, a modern mini PC with a Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 CPU is often more than enough.
- Prices for such mid-range devices typically range from €250 to €400, and they easily handle most daily tasks. Recommended brands include Beelink (*), MinisForum (*) orNiPoGi (*).
- Avoid weak processors like Intel N100 or older Celerons – they meet the bare minimum but are painfully slow in practice.
- For the best balance of performance and longevity, choose a system with an AMD Ryzen 5000 series or newer, 16 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD.
- Older AMD Ryzen 1000 and 2000 CPUs are not compatible with Windows 11, while Ryzen 3000 chips are still usable but less future-proof.
(*) Affiliate Links
Do I have to switch to Windows 11?
In short: no – but in the long run, yes.
- You can continue using Windows 10, but it will get less secure over time.
- If you rely on modern software, gaming, or want a secure system, you shouldn’t delay the switch for too long.
- For older PCs, buying a new system often improves the overall user experience significantly.
Alternatives to Windows
If you don’t necessarily need Windows, there are good alternatives:
- Linux (Ubuntu, Mint, Zorin OS): Free, lightweight, stable, and with plenty of software support.
- ChromeOS or FydeOS: Great for light users and those who mainly use Android apps.
- Android for PC: Provides a familiar smartphone-like experience, although not all apps are compatible.
Many Windows applications are also available on Linux, and tools like Proton or Wine allow you to run Windows software and games with decent success.
(*) Affiliate Links
