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Published 04.11.2026

Windows 10 support has ended: what to do now?

Windows 10 to Windows 11

Microsoft officially ended Windows 10 support on 14 October 2025. Your PC doesn't stop working after that date, but regular security updates are no longer released. This article explains what that means and what your options are.

What does "end of support" mean?

  • No security fixes. Newly found Windows vulnerabilities are no longer patched, so the PC becomes an easier target for malware and ransomware.
  • No technical support. Microsoft no longer helps with Windows 10 problems.
  • Apps gradually drop Windows 10. Browsers, antivirus and office software will over time stop supporting the old system in their new versions.

Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Microsoft lets home users enrol in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme. According to Microsoft, the programme runs until 12 October 2027. You enrol from Windows Settings under "Windows Update". Terms in the European Economic Area may differ, so check Microsoft's website for the current details.

ESU only delivers critical security fixes, with no new features and no technical support. It is a stopgap that gives you time to move to Windows 11.

Can my PC run Windows 11?

Windows 11 minimum requirements:

  • a 64-bit processor on Microsoft's supported list (usually Intel 8th generation or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer);
  • 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage;
  • a TPM 2.0 security chip and UEFI with Secure Boot.

The easiest way to check is Microsoft's free PC Health Check app. On many PCs, TPM and Secure Boot are available but simply switched off in the BIOS settings.

When do you need a Windows 11 licence?

If your PC meets the requirements and runs an activated Windows 10, Microsoft lets you upgrade to Windows 11 for free through Windows Update. You need a licence key when:

  • you have a new or self-built PC without Windows;
  • you reinstall on a new drive and the old licence isn't linked to your Microsoft account;
  • Windows 10 isn't activated;
  • you want to move from Home to Pro, for example for BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop or joining a work domain.

Our shop has Windows 11 licences in both OEM and Retail versions. We explain the difference in OEM or Retail licence: which one suits you?

Moving to Windows 11 in short

  1. Back up your important files to an external drive or the cloud.
  2. Check the PC with PC Health Check.
  3. If it qualifies, open "Settings → Windows Update" and choose the Windows 11 upgrade.
  4. For a clean install, download the Windows 11 installation tool from Microsoft's website, create a USB installer and install.
  5. After installing, open "Settings → System → Activation" and enter your licence key.

Summary

Windows 10 still works, but every month without security fixes adds risk. ESU buys time until October 2027, but the safest long-term answer is Windows 11. If you need a licence, see our Windows licences: your key arrives by email together with activation instructions.