Windows 10 support has ended as of October 14, 2025 – What happens next? All the answers.

• Windows 10 reached end-of-support on October 14, 2025.
• Users should consider upgrading to Windows 11, enrolling in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, switching to Linux or ChromeOS Flex, or continuing to use Windows 10 cautiously.
• Computers with an unsupported operating system will no longer receive security patches or technical support.

Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10 after nearly a decade since its debut in 2015. As of October 14, 2025, the company has released the final cumulative update KB5066791 for version 22H2, marking the end of free security and quality updates for all Home and Pro editions.

Starting on October 15, 2025, the operating system is no longer considered supported.

Computers running Windows 10 will continue to function after this date, but they will no longer receive new security patches, driver updates, or technical assistance.

What to do after Windows 10 support ends

Microsoft recommends several paths forward to stay secure and supported. The first option is to upgrade to Windows 11. It’s free for eligible devices meeting TPM 2.0, UEFI, and CPU requirements. The only caveat is that not every device will qualify.

Alternatively, you can enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU), which is a program that extends the security updates for another year (until October 13, 2026). It’s a paid program, but you can also get it for free by using the Windows Update tool to upload your data to OneDrive or by redeeming 1000 points from the Microsoft Rewards program.

You could also switch to another operating system, such as Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex, which are viable options for unsupported hardware. The only problem is that not everyone is up to the challenge to learn a different operating system.

Finally, it’s also possible to upgrade unsupported hardware to Windows 11, allowing you to continue receiving updates and features, even though the system won’t officially be supported by Microsoft.

Why Microsoft ended Windows 10

Windows 10 was first released on July 29, 2015, and has been supported for more than ten years, longer than most previous releases. Microsoft is now concentrating its development on Windows 11 and future releases of the platform, which focus on AI features and stronger security frameworks.

FAQs about Windows 10 End of Life

Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers regarding the end of support for the operating system.

What happens after October 14, 2025?

After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, feature updates, or technical support from Microsoft. Your computer will continue to boot and run normally, and you can still use apps, browse the web, and open files. However, the system will become increasingly vulnerable to new security risks over time, as it will not receive critical patches or bug fixes.

Will I be locked out of Windows 10 after support ends?

No. You won’t be locked out of your computer. Nothing different will happen on October 15, 2025. You’ll continue to have access to your data and apps as always.

Will my computer stop working after support ends?

No. Your computer and applications will continue to function after October 14, 2025. The change only affects Microsoft’s support and updates. You won’t lose access to your data or apps.

Will Microsoft Defender Antivirus still work?

Yes, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will continue to receive definition updates until 2028. However, because the Windows 10 system itself won’t receive security patches, you can’t rely solely on antivirus protection. The operating system will still have unpatched vulnerabilities.

Will existing antivirus, VPN, or firewall be enough protection?

No. While a good security suite is necessary, it is not a replacement for operating system security patches. Third-party software cannot fix vulnerabilities deep within the operating system’s kernel or core services. Without Microsoft’s security updates, your antivirus is fighting a battle from the outside while the operating system remains compromised from within.

What kind of problems will I face after 2025?

Over time, you may experience compatibility issues. Some apps and web browsers will stop working, newer drivers won’t install, and peripherals may fail to function correctly. The longer you use Windows 10, the more challenging it becomes to maintain a stable and secure device.

How exactly will an unpatched Windows 10 be less secure than Windows 11?

An unsupported operating system is most vulnerable to a newly discovered “zero-day” exploit. If a major vulnerability is found in the core operating system kernel or a critical service, Microsoft will issue a patch for Windows 11, but not Windows 10.

How long can you safely use Windows 10 after support ends?

Although it’s unclear how long, you can likely continue using Windows 10 without much worry for at least the first few months. However, as time progresses, vulnerabilities will start to emerge, which malicious individuals will begin to exploit, and this will make your computer a target.

What is the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program?

The ESU program is a paid service from Microsoft that provides critical security updates for one additional year, until October 13, 2026. It’s designed to give users and organizations more time to transition from Windows 10 to a supported platform.

Can regular consumers enroll in the ESU program?

Yes. For the first time, the software giant is offering the ESU program to home users. You can enroll in one of three ways. First, you can use the Windows Backup app to upload your files to OneDrive, or you can redeem 1000 Microsoft Rewards points to get the service for “free.” Or you can opt for the one-time $30 purchase (price varies by region).

Is the ESU program available in Europe?

Yes, but with slightly different conditions. European users still need to connect a Microsoft account to enroll, but aren’t required to sync data or redeem rewards points. They can also use a local account if they pay the $30 enrollment fee.

When is the deadline to enroll in ESU?

There’s no strict enrollment deadline. You can sign up any time before or after October 14, 2025, but the ESU program will end on October 13, 2026, regardless of when you register. It does not extend beyond that date.

How many devices can I enroll with the same Microsoft account?

You can activate up to 10 computers under the same Microsoft account using the Extended Security Updates program. If you purchase the one-time license, the same purchase covers all linked devices.

Does the Extended Security Updates program cover all versions of Windows 10?

No. The ESU program only supports Windows 10 Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations. Devices using Enterprise LTSC, kiosk mode, domain-joined setups, or MDM-managed devices aren’t eligible.

What do I do if the ESU enrollment option is missing on Windows 10?

If the option to enroll your computer in the Extended Security Updates program is missing, you will have to determine if your PC meets the requirements. If your device is compatible, you may have to edit the Registry to enable the ESU enrollment option on Windows 10.

Can I switch to Windows 10 LTSC to extend support?

Not officially. The Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) editions are only available for commercial customers through Volume Licensing or OEM agreements. While it’s technically possible to install Windows 10 LTSC on consumer devices, it’s not a supported upgrade path.

How long will Microsoft 365 and Edge be supported on Windows 10?

Microsoft Edge will continue to receive updates until 2028, and Microsoft 365 (Office) apps will receive security updates until 2028, but won’t get new features on Windows 10.

What about Office 2016, 2019, and 2021?

Microsoft will end support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 on October 14, 2025. Office 2021 and 2024 (including LTSC editions) will continue to function, but won’t be supported on Windows 10 after that date.

Can I upgrade to Windows 11 instead of using ESU?

Yes. Upgrading to Windows 11 is the best long-term solution if your computer meets the hardware requirements. If your hardware isn’t officially supported, you can still install Windows 11 manually using tools like Rufus, but your computer will remain in an unsupported state, meaning Microsoft won’t guarantee reliability or compatibility.

Do I need to buy a new computer immediately?

No. You can continue using your Windows 10 PC safely for a while with the ESU program or by switching to another operating system, such as Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex. However, if your device is critical for daily or online tasks, upgrading to a Windows 11-compatible computer will be the most secure and future-proof choice.

Can I still use Windows 10 for gaming after support ends?

Yes, most existing games will continue to run as usual on your computer. However, newer game engines and anti-cheat systems may eventually require Windows 11 or other features. You’ll also lose potential performance optimizations introduced in future Windows versions.

Can I still activate Windows 10 after October 2025?

Yes. Microsoft activation servers will remain online for the foreseeable future, allowing you to activate new or reinstalled Windows 10 copies using valid keys, even after support ends.

Will hardware manufacturers stop releasing driver updates for Windows 10?

Yes. While existing drivers will continue to work, manufacturers will eventually stop developing new drivers for Windows 10. This means you will not be able to take advantage of new features or performance optimizations for your graphics card, and newly released hardware may not have functional drivers for Windows 10.

Will I still receive updates if I install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware?

Yes. Currently, security and quality updates appear to be delivered to unsupported installations. However, your computer will be in an unsupported state. This means Microsoft can choose to stop those updates at any time, and they do not guarantee that future updates won’t cause stability or reliability issues on your non-compliant hardware. Use this method at your own risk.

How can I safely dispose of my Windows 10 PC if I no longer plan to use it?

You must securely wipe the hard drive to prevent your personal data from being recovered. You should use the operating system’s built-in “Reset this PC” feature, selecting the option to “Remove everything” and clean the drive. You can then seek out official recycling or trade-in programs from manufacturers and retailers.

What versions of Windows 10 have reached the end of support?

These versions of Windows 10 have now reached the end of support, including versions 1507 (RTM), Windows 10 2015 LTSB, 1511, 1607, Windows 10 2016 LTSB, 1703, 1709, 1803, 1809, Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019, 1903, 1909, 2004, 20H2, 21H1, Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, 22H2.