Microsoft has officially set the end of support date for Windows 10: October 14, 2025. After that date, millions of computers still running the popular operating system will no longer receive security updates, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats. For businesses, home users, and institutions alike, this marks a major inflection point—and raises serious questions about the future of their computers.

Unlike past end-of-support events, such as with Windows 7 or XP, this one comes with a unique twist: a large portion of existing Windows 10 hardware will not be eligible to upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft has imposed strict hardware requirements for Windows 11, including TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and newer generation CPUs. That leaves potentially hundreds of millions of otherwise functional machines facing obsolescence, not because they’re broken, but because they don’t meet Microsoft’s checklist.

So what does “end of support” actually mean, and what are your options? Let’s break it down.

What Happens When Support Ends?

When Microsoft ends support for an operating system, it no longer provides critical security patches or bug fixes. That doesn’t mean your computer will stop working overnight, but it does mean any newly discovered vulnerabilities will go unpatched. For cybercriminals, unsupported systems become a prime target. Malware developers tend to focus on older operating systems once they know no fixes will be released.

End of support also means no more technical support from Microsoft and no new features or improvements. Over time, users may find software compatibility issues mounting as newer applications and hardware drivers are designed only for supported platforms.

How Big Is the Problem?

As of early 2025, Windows 10 remains installed on over 60% of all Windows PCs worldwide. That’s hundreds of millions of machines that could soon face security risks. While Microsoft offers paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) for enterprise customers willing to foot the bill, home users and small businesses will have no such option.

This isn’t a new phenomenon. We’ve been here before with Windows 7 and Windows XP. Each time, a substantial number of users continued to run unsupported versions far past their expiration dates. Some for reasons of convenience or familiarity, others because of hardware limitations or financial considerations.

What Are Your Options?

If you’re one of the many still on Windows 10, here are your main paths forward:

1. Upgrade to Windows 11 Microsoft’s preferred solution is to upgrade to Windows 11. However, Windows 11 has stringent hardware requirements, including TPM 2.0 and newer CPUs. Many older PCs simply aren’t eligible. If your computer qualifies, upgrading may be straightforward. But users should be aware that Windows 11 brings a more locked-down and cloud-focused experience that isn’t universally loved.
2. Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) Microsoft has announced that individual consumers will have the option to purchase Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 starting at $30 for the first year. This provides critical and important security patches beyond the end-of-support date. However, this solution is temporary—the ESU for consumers is only available for one year, and after that, continued support is not guaranteed.For businesses and organizations, Microsoft offers a separate ESU plan starting at $61 per device for the first year, with prices doubling in subsequent years for up to three years.
3. Keep Running Windows 10 (Not Recommended) You can choose to continue using Windows 10 past the end of support, but doing so carries growing risks. Security vulnerabilities will eventually be discovered and exploited. Running outdated antivirus software and unpatched browsers only compounds the problem.
4. Switch to Linux For those unwilling or unable to move to Windows 11, Linux offers a compelling alternative. Modern Linux distributions such as Linux Mint Cinnamon and Fedora Cinnamon Spin are user-friendly, secure, and well-supported. In many cases, they will run better on older hardware than Windows 11 would.Linux has come a long way since the days of complex command-line interfaces. Popular distributions offer easy graphical installers, automatic updates, software stores, and familiar desktop environments. Basic computing tasks like web browsing, office work, email, and media playback work out of the box.While Linux gaming has also improved dramatically thanks to Valve’s Proton and Steam Deck initiatives, users with specialized Windows-only software may need to explore alternatives or run those apps via compatibility layers like Wine or in virtual machines.

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Why Consider Linux?

Aside from avoiding the security risks of unsupported Windows, switching to Linux offers other benefits:

• No forced obsolescence: Linux distributions often support hardware long past the point where Microsoft and Apple would.
• Privacy-focused: Unlike Windows 10 and 11, Linux does not push telemetry or personalized advertising.
• Free and open-source: Most Linux distributions and software are free to download and use, reducing cost barriers.
• Community-driven: Users have access to a wealth of free support, tutorials, and forums.

What About Mac?

Some users may also consider switching to macOS. While Macs are known for ease of use and tight hardware-software integration, they come at a premium price and are not ideal for those wanting to repurpose existing PC hardware. Mac users also face eventual end-of-support cycles similar to Windows.

What Should You Do Now?

The most important step is to plan ahead. Waiting until October 2025 will leave little time to research, test, and transition to a new system. Here are some recommendations:

• Check if your PC meets Windows 11 requirements. If so, test the upgrade process.
• Consider the ESU plan if you need more time before migrating.
• Evaluate your software needs. If all your critical applications are available on Linux, begin testing a Linux distribution on a spare machine or via live USB.
• Back up your files regularly to prepare for any transition.
• Seek out computer geek friends, tutorials, and community support to ease the learning curve if you switch to Linux.

The good news? Unlike in past decades, there are now real and practical alternatives to Windows. Whether it’s a shift to Linux, a new Mac, or embracing Windows 11, users have choices that allow them to keep older hardware useful and secure without being forced into expensive upgrades.

As Windows 10 rides into the sunset, it pays to be proactive. Start evaluating your path forward today—before security risks and software incompatibilities make the choice for you.

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Dave Soulia | FYIVT

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