Windows 10 end of support: what it means for you

Microsoft stopped providing regular support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Your laptop did not stop working that day, but the rules for staying safe changed.

What has actually changed

• Windows 10 no longer gets free regular security updates, bug fixes or technical help from Microsoft.
• Your PC still starts and your programs still run.
• Over time, new weaknesses will be found and not fixed, so risk goes up, especially for banking, email and shopping online.
• Some programs and browsers will eventually stop supporting Windows 10 too.

Step by step: what to do

1. Check what you have. Open Settings, then System, then About, and read the Windows version.
2. Open Settings, then Update & Security, then Windows Update. If the PC is able to move up, a notice about Windows 11 appears. Upgrading is free, and your files and apps are normally kept, but back up first.
3. If it says your PC cannot run Windows 11, you can use Microsoft's official PC Health Check to see why.
4. Back up your files now. See our OneDrive guide.
5. Make sure Windows Security is on and up to date.

Other options

• Microsoft has offered an Extended Security Updates scheme for home users on Windows 10, as a temporary measure. Reports on the end date and terms have varied, so check Microsoft's own Windows 10 support page for the current details and do not rely on third-party websites.
• If your PC cannot upgrade, a new PC may eventually be the sensible choice. You do not need to rush to buy.

If that did not work

• Be careful of emails or pop-ups claiming that you must pay or click now. Microsoft does not chase people this way.
• Avoid unofficial tricks to install Windows 11 on unsupported PCs.

When to get more help

Stop and email us if you are unsure whether your PC can be upgraded, you rely on old software or a printer that may not work on Windows 11, or you would like advice on a replacement. Please send the make, model and age of your PC and what you use it for.