Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This means that the operating system no longer receives free security updates, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft. However, Windows 10 can still be used in 2026, with some important caveats.
🛡️ 1. Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
Microsoft has introduced a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users who need more time to transition.
🔹 What It Is
The Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program provides critical and important security patches through October 2026 (source: Microsoft Q&A, PCMag).
🔹 Who Can Use It
- Individuals and businesses can purchase the ESU license.
- Some devices (like those managed through Microsoft 365 or Windows Update for Business) may get ESU automatically if subscribed.
- There are also free options for certain users, such as through Microsoft’s Cloud PC or Windows 365 environments (source: PCMag).
🔹 How to Enable It
Go to:
Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Extended Security Updates
You’ll see an option to enroll or purchase ESU if your device qualifies (source: Tom’s Guide).
⚠️ 2. Risks of Using Windows 10 Without Updates
If you don’t enroll in ESU, your Windows 10 system will still work, but it becomes increasingly risky.
Key Risks:
- Security vulnerabilities: New malware and exploits will not be patched.
- Software incompatibility: New apps, browsers, and drivers may stop supporting Windows 10.
- Compliance issues: Businesses may fail to meet cybersecurity or data protection standards.
- No technical support from Microsoft or most OEMs.
By mid-2026, running Windows 10 without ESU is not recommended for internet-connected or sensitive systems (source: TechRadar).
🧰 3. How to Stay Safe if You Keep Using Windows 10
If you must continue using Windows 10 in 2026, follow these best practices:
- Enroll in ESUÂ for continued security updates.
- Use strong antivirus software (Microsoft Defender will still work, but third-party options may be safer).
- Avoid using Internet Explorer or Edge Legacy — use a modern browser like Chrome or Firefox (while they still support Win10).
- Keep offline backups of important data.
- Limit online activity and disable unnecessary network connections.
- Run Windows 10 in a virtual machine or isolated environment if possible.
🚀 4. Upgrade Options
If your hardware supports it, upgrading is the best long-term solution.
âś… Recommended Paths:
- Upgrade to Windows 11Â (free for most modern PCs).
- Switch to Windows 365 Cloud PCÂ for managed, secure Windows environments.
- Try Linux (Ubuntu, Mint, or Fedora) if you want a free, secure OS for older hardware.
🧩 5. Summary Table
| Option | Supported Until | Cost | Security Level | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 10 (no ESU) | Oct 2025 | Free | ❌ Unsafe | Offline or test PCs |
| Windows 10 + ESU | Oct 2026 | Paid | âś… Safe | Users needing more time |
| Windows 11 | 2031+ | Free upgrade | âś…âś… | Most users |
| Linux | Varies | Free | âś…âś… | Older PCs or advanced users |
đź’¬ Final Verdict
Yes — Windows 10 is still usable in 2026, but only safely if you’re enrolled in the ESU program or take strong security precautions.
Without updates, it’s increasingly insecure and should only be used offline or for non-critical tasks.
For most users, upgrading to Windows 11 or another supported OS is the smarter move.
Windows 10 Update and Support Lifecycle
Windows 10’s journey is approaching a significant milestone with important changes to its support structure. Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 will reach its end of support date soon, with options for users to either upgrade or purchase extended support.
Update Eligibility and Process
Windows 10 version 22H2 has been confirmed as the final version of the operating system. Users can check if their current Windows 10 installation is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Microsoft typically delivers feature updates twice yearly, but this practice will end as Windows 10 approaches its support lifecycle conclusion.
To maintain proper security, users should ensure automatic updates are enabled. The update process usually happens in the background but may require a restart to complete installation.
Windows Update automatically prioritizes critical security patches. These updates address vulnerabilities and system bugs that could compromise system performance or security.
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
When Windows 10 reaches its end of support on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop providing free monthly security updates and bug fixes. After this date, the operating system will technically continue to function, but without protection against new security threats.
For organizations that cannot immediately transition to Windows 11, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU). This program provides critical security patches for an additional fee.
The ESU program will be available for Enterprise and Education editions through 2027. Home and Professional edition users must either upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase ESU separately if they wish to continue using Windows 10 safely.
LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) versions of Windows 10 operate on a different support timeline and may receive updates beyond the mainstream end date.
Transition to Windows 11
Microsoft encourages Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 before the October 2025 deadline. Users can check if their PC is eligible for a free upgrade by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security and using the PC Health Check app.
The minimum requirements for Windows 11 include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and TPM 2.0. Many devices manufactured before 2018 may not meet these specifications.
Users with compatible hardware can upgrade through Windows Update at no cost. The upgrade preserves most personal files and installed applications, though backing up important data is always recommended before any major system change.
For those with incompatible hardware, continuing with Windows 10 until getting new hardware or exploring the ESU options will be necessary decisions in the coming months.
System and Security Considerations
When using Windows 10, understanding the system requirements and security implications remains crucial as Microsoft’s support deadline approaches. These factors will determine whether users should continue with Windows 10 or upgrade to Windows 11 before October 2025.
Hardware Requirements for Windows 10 and 11
Windows 10 runs on relatively modest hardware, making it accessible for older computers. The basic requirements include a 1 GHz processor, 1 GB RAM (32-bit) or 2 GB RAM (64-bit), and 16 GB storage.
Windows 11 demands significantly more powerful hardware. Microsoft requires:
- 1 GHz dual-core processor on a compatible 64-bit processor
- 4 GB RAM
- 64 GB storage
- TPM version 2.0
- UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- DirectX 12 compatible graphics
Many computers running Windows 10 smoothly cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to these stricter requirements, particularly the TPM 2.0 and processor compatibility restrictions. This hardware gap leaves many users needing to decide between staying with Windows 10 or purchasing new hardware.
Security Updates and Protections
Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. This end-of-support deadline means computers running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to new security threats and malware.
Windows Defender, while built into Windows 10, will have limited effectiveness without regular security updates. Users continuing with Windows 10 past this date may face increased risks of:
- Unpatched security vulnerabilities
- Malware infections
- Data breaches
- Ransomware attacks
Some third-party solutions like 0Patch may offer limited security patches, but these aren’t comprehensive replacements for official Microsoft updates. Business users can purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) but individual consumers cannot.
Technical Support and Resources
Technical support for Windows 10 will largely disappear after the end-of-support date. Microsoft will focus resources on Windows 11 users instead.
Users staying with Windows 10 past 2025 will need to rely on:
- Community forums
- Third-party support services
- Independent security tools
- Self-help resources
Windows 10 Enterprise and Education customers can purchase extended support through the ESU program, but at increasing costs each year. Regular home users have no official extended support options.
For those upgrading, Microsoft offers migration tools and guidance. The Windows 11 installation assistant can check compatibility and guide users through the upgrade process when possible. Backup solutions like 7-Zip for archiving files can help preserve data during transitions to new systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many users have questions about Windows 10 availability, upgrade options, and support timelines. Microsoft has provided clear answers about these common concerns as the operating system approaches its end-of-support date.
How can I upgrade from Windows 7 to Windows 10?
Users with Windows 7 can no longer upgrade to Windows 10 for free through Microsoft’s official channels. The free upgrade offer ended several years ago.
To upgrade now, users need to purchase a Windows 10 license from Microsoft or an authorized retailer. After purchase, they can download the installation media from Microsoft’s website.
The installation can be performed as an upgrade that preserves files and applications, or as a clean installation.
What is the process for downloading Windows 10?
Users can download Windows 10 through the Microsoft website. The download page provides the Media Creation Tool which helps create installation media.
This tool can be used to upgrade the current PC or create a USB drive or DVD for installing Windows 10 on another computer.
Microsoft requires a valid product key or digital license to activate Windows 10 after installation.
Are existing Windows 10 users entitled to any free upgrade options?
Current Windows 10 users can upgrade to Windows 11 for free if their computer meets the hardware requirements. This free upgrade offer has no announced end date.
Users can check if their PC meets requirements using the PC Health Check app from Microsoft.
For those whose computers don’t meet Windows 11 requirements, Windows 10 will continue to receive updates until October 14, 2025.
Does Microsoft offer a Windows 10 upgrade tool?
Yes, Microsoft offers the Media Creation Tool specifically designed for Windows 10 installation and upgrades. This official tool simplifies the process significantly.
The tool provides options to upgrade the current PC or create installation media for another computer.
It handles downloading the necessary files and guides users through the installation process.
What are the consequences of using an out-of-date version of Windows 10?
After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates or technical support from Microsoft. This creates significant security vulnerabilities.
Computers running Windows 10 after this date will continue to work but may become increasingly vulnerable to malware and cyberattacks.
Many software vendors may also stop supporting their applications on Windows 10, limiting functionality and features over time.
What is the duration of the free usage period for Windows 10?
The free upgrade offer from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10 ended years ago. New users must purchase a license.
Once installed with a valid license, Windows 10 can be used indefinitely on that device. Microsoft will provide security updates and support until October 14, 2025.
After this end-of-support date, the operating system will continue to function but without security updates or technical assistance from Microsoft.
