As is customary, each operating system has a ten-year lifespan, and as of October 14, 2025, Windows 10 has officially reached the end of its line. But what does that mean for the average Windows 10 user?

Why Windows 10 Is Ending Support?

Microsoft's standard lifecycle policy provides 10 years of support for its operating systems. This means that after a decade, Microsoft stops providing updates and technical assistance for that version.
Windows 10 was originally released on July 29, 2015. The end of support is scheduled for October 14, 2025.
This is a normal procedure and not an unexpected development. Microsoft follows this process for all its operating systems.
End of support means Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for Windows 10 after the specified date.
Key dates:
Original release date: July 29, 2015
End of support date: October 14, 2025
Total support period: 10 years

Who Is Affected by the End of Support

All editions of Windows 10 are affected, including Home, Pro, and Enterprise.
As of 2024, a significant percentage of global users—estimated at over 60%—still use Windows 10.

Security Risks Without Updates

No more security updates means that any new vulnerabilities discovered after October 2025 will not be patched by Microsoft, leaving systems exposed.
Vulnerabilities are often found and exploited by cyber criminals after support ends, as seen with previous versions like Windows 7.
For example, after Windows 7 support ended, there was a noticeable increase in malware targeting unpatched systems.
Zero-day vulnerabilities are flaws that are exploited before a fix is available. After support ends, these will remain unpatched on Windows 10.
Main security concerns:
Unpatched security vulnerabilities
Increased risk of malware and ransomware
No technical assistance for security issues
Third-party software is eventually dropping support

Options for Upgrading or Migrating

Users have several options to stay secure and up-to-date after Windows 10's end of support. You can upgrade to Windows 11 for free and get a secure and stable operating system. Read more to learn about the process before upgrading.

1. Preparing Your Data

Start by moving files to a secure location or a drive separate from where the operating system is located. You can also create a backup on cloud storage.

Back up important files before making any changes. Use cloud storage services (like OneDrive or Google Drive) or external drives.
Prioritize documents, photos, and any settings or application data you can't easily replace.

2. Checking Hardware Compatibility

Make sure your system hardware can handle the upgrade to Windows 11. Go to “Settings”, choose the “System” menu, and scroll all the way down to “About”. Here, you can check your hardware. Alternatively, you can use the following tips and information.

Use the PC Health Check app from Microsoft to see if your device can run Windows 11.
Minimum requirements for Windows 11 include TPM 2.0, a compatible 64-bit processor, 4 GB RAM, and 64 GB storage.
Common hardware limitations include a lack of TPM 2.0 or unsupported processors.

System Requirements

Component	Windows 10 Requirement	Windows 11 Requirement
Processor	1 GHz	1 GHz, 2+ cores, compatible 64-bit
RAM	1 GB (32-bit), 2 GB (64-bit)	4 GB
Storage	16 GB	64 GB
TPM	Not required	Version 2.0

In case your laptop or PC falls short of the requirements, browse Windows 11-ready devices at RunBazaar to ensure your digital life continues securely beyond October 2025.

3. Deciding Between Upgrade and Fresh Install

There’s a lot to consider before making changes to the operating system. For one thing, there’s moving data and files. For another, you have the option of either upgrading to Windows 11 or completely reinstalling. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making any decisions.

Upgrade: Keeps your files and apps, but may carry over old issues.
Fresh install: Offers a clean start and better performance, but requires reinstalling apps and restoring files.
Choose an upgrade if you want a quick transition; opt for a fresh install for best long-term stability.

Staying Safe on Windows 10 After Support Ends

There is still some time left to hang onto Windows 10. Temporary as it is, there is one way you can keep using Windows 10. Many users still favor the user experience and features of the decade-old iteration.

A while back, Microsoft announced that there would be a free way to get extended updates for Windows 10—at least for one year. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program was originally revealed for users at a cost. Later, Microsoft presented the option to use Windows 10 freely for an extra year, provided you sync your PC settings to OneDrive.

Alternatives Beyond Windows 11

Some users may move beyond Windows altogether. You can assess whether alternatives, like Linux or ChromeOS, may be the best option for you as well.

Beginner-friendly Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS are good alternatives.
ChromeOS Flex is a cloud-based operating system from Google that can be installed on many older PCs. Unlike standard ChromeOS, it can be installed on non-Chromebook hardware.

If there are specific programs you would like to keep using on a new OS, check online resources to see if they work on Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Community forums and compatibility databases are a good source if you’re seeking guidance.

Looking Ahead for Users and Shoppers

Windows 10 end of support means no more security updates or technical assistance after October 2025. There are a number of approaches you can take to the end of support on Windows 10.

You can move to other operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS. And if you aren’t ready to bid Windows 10 goodbye yet, you can make use of the free Extended Security Updates program that comes with syncing your PC settings to OneDrive. You can easily upgrade to Windows 11 to avoid any security risks. In case your hardware isn’t compatible with Windows 11, RunBazaar offers competitive pricing on Windows 11 devices with fast delivery across the UAE.

FAQs about Windows 10 No More Updates

Does continuing to use Windows 10 violate any agreements?

Continuing to use Windows 10 after support ends doesn't violate Microsoft's license agreement, but you'll be using the software without security updates at your own risk.

Will drivers for Windows 10 devices still be available?

Many hardware manufacturers will likely continue providing drivers for Windows 10 for some time after Microsoft's end of support, but availability will gradually decrease as vendors focus on newer operating systems.

Can I update my Windows 10 to 11 for free?

The upgrade to Windows 11 is free from Microsoft.

Can I use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025?

Windows 10 has reached the end of support on October 14, 2025. At this point, technical assistance, feature updates, and security updates are no longer provided. If you have devices running Windows 10, we recommend upgrading them to Windows 11, a more modern, secure, and highly efficient computing experience.

How much RAM is needed for Windows 11?

4 GB. If your PC has less than 4GB of memory, there are sometimes options for upgrading to get additional RAM.

Is Windows 10 still supported?

Support for Windows 10 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. However, after October 14, 2025, your computer running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates.

Is Windows 12 available yet?

Microsoft hasn't announced Windows 12 yet, and we likely won't be seeing it anytime soon.

R.I.P. Windows 10. You will be missed forever. 2015-2025