Windows 10 End of Life: What It Means, Why It’s Happening, and Your Best Options
Mark your calendar: On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10.
Your PC won’t suddenly stop working on that date, but it will stop receiving security updates, new features, and official Microsoft support. That means your system will become more vulnerable to cyber threats and less compatible with modern software over time.
Why is Windows 10 support ending?
Microsoft designs every operating system with a set lifecycle. Windows 10 has been supported for 10 years, and Microsoft is shifting resources to newer platforms like Windows 11, which are built on stronger security standards such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
In short: Windows 11 is the future, and Microsoft wants users on a more secure foundation.
Can I keep using Windows 10?
Yes, but with risks:
- Reduced or No security updates after October 14, 2025, unless you enroll in Microsoft’s paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
- Limited compatibility as software vendors drop support for Windows 10.
- Increasing vulnerability as hackers exploit unpatched systems.
The ESU program can extend security patches temporarily, but it’s not a long-term solution.
Which companies will stop supporting Windows 10?
Once Microsoft ends support, many vendors will follow suit. Here are some early examples:
- QuickBooks Desktop – Intuit will end Windows 10 support after Microsoft’s cutoff.
- Microsoft Edge & WebView2 – Still supported on Windows 10 until at least October 2028, but that doesn’t replace full OS security updates.
- Adobe Creative Cloud – Adobe typically supports the current OS plus two versions. Expect Windows 10 support to fade quickly in future releases.
Bottom line: as Windows 10 ages, fewer companies will test or certify their software on it.
What’s different in Windows 11?
For the average user, not much! It’s a similar experience to using Windows 10. Some of the notable improvements are:
Security upgrades
- Built-in requirements for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
- Better foundations for features like BitLocker and Windows Hello.
Productivity improvements
- Snap Layouts & Groups for easier multitasking.
- Streamlined Settings and a modern interface.
Long-term support
- Ongoing feature updates, security patches, and driver support from Microsoft and third-party vendors.
How do I check which Windows version I have?
Microsoft has made this simple. Click the button below:
Open About settingsNote: This link only works on Windows 10/11 devices. Other systems will simply ignore it. Once you’ve opened the settings window, scroll down to the “Windows specifications” section to see your operating system version.
What if I can’t upgrade right now?
- Enroll in ESU to buy yourself another year of security updates.
- Plan for replacement if your PC doesn’t meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements. Newer systems will be faster, more secure, and supported longer.
Tech 2U Can Help
Whether you’re still on Windows 10 or already planning a move, Tech 2U makes the transition seamless:
- Check if your PC is compatible with Windows 11
- Perform the upgrade for you
- Transfer your files to a new computer
- Enroll your device in ESU if needed
