Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10: how to upgrade to Windows 11 and what to do with older PCs

Starting October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide support for Windows 10 , including the most popular editions, including Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education, and IoT Enterprise. Devices running Windows 10 will continue to function, even though they are exposed to new security vulnerabilities , which are addressed by the updates Microsoft will no longer provide. Likewise, operating system bug fixes will no longer be available, and updates will no longer be provided via Windows Update.

Not all Windows 10 computers will be able to host Windows 11, but before throwing away your PC and buying another, there are other options that should be considered .

What does it mean when Windows 10 support ends?

As mentioned above, this means that Microsoft will no longer update Windows 10 and that, ultimately, personal computers will become more exposed to cyber threats such as malware or ransomware .

It should be clarified that Microsoft will continue to support Microsoft Defender Antivirus until 2028 , but this is not enough to guarantee completely safe PC use.

Computers will continue to function, and those who need more time to decide what to do can subscribe to the ESU (Extended Security Updates) program, which, for private individuals, guarantees critical updates until October 13, 2026 , at a cost of $30 per device (€25.50). For businesses , with prices starting at $61 per year (€51.85), extended support is guaranteed until 2028 .

However, the ESU program is not comparable to standard Windows 10 support. In fact, updates are limited to security and there will be no further improvements to the operating system, nor will Microsoft provide technical assistance.

Why Windows 11 Can't Be Installed on All PCs

As Microsoft explains on its website , Windows 11 requires improved hardware requirements compared to Windows 10 to improve the stability, security, and compatibility of the operating system.

The minimum PC requirements to install Windows 11 are:

TMP 2.0 , a chip for encryption, secure boot and computer protection

Secure Boot and Uefi , a feature that allows only secure software to boot

CPU at least equal to Intel 8th gen, AMD Ryzen 2000 or ARM v8.2

At least 4 GB of RAM

Hard disk of at least 64 GB

Microsoft has made available a free tool that allows you to check if a computer is suitable for installing Windows 11.

What are the advantages of Windows 11?

For private users, i.e. the consumer market, the advantages translate into the ability to continue using their PC in a safe and up-to-date manner, just as was possible with Windows 10.

Windows 11 also offers other advantages, mostly made possible by the availability of modern hardware. These include smoother transitions between applications and more refined virtual desktops. Other advantages are especially appreciated by gamers, thanks to Auto HDR and DirectStorage technologies that improve the gaming experience.

For businesses, the situation is more complicated, and the benefits must be weighed on a case-by-case basis. The compatibility of company applications with Windows 11 must be tested and tested, as must the functionality of peripherals and devices, even though it's likely that hardware compatible with Windows 10 will also be compatible with the new version of the operating system.

How to reuse old PCs

Home users with PCs that aren’t compatible with Windows 11 may have options beyond buying a new computer or continuing to use Windows 10.

The most obvious choice is to switch to a Linux distribution, whose software availability satisfies everyone's needs.

It should also be said that, using Office 365 online – although more limited than the versions to download and install – Linux users can also use Microsoft's office suite.

The Linux distributions indicated are Linux Lite , especially suitable for older PCs, Linux Mint whose interface recalls that of Microsoft operating systems or Zorin OS which, thanks to tools such as Wine, can run some Windows applications.

Using Windows to Linux migration tools shouldn't be considered for several reasons. First, experienced users know how to migrate from one environment to another without the aid of tools. Second, those who aren't as resourceful may be unable to resolve issues related to software incompatibilities or the lack of drivers needed for proper computer operation.

The environmental problem

Market research and analysis firm Canalys has estimated that approximately 240 million personal computers will be disposed of , but these numbers are estimates based on market share.

According to the Statcounter website, as of August 2025, Windows 10 was installed on 45.65% of computers with a Microsoft operating system, and this data does not necessarily mean that these machines cannot host Windows 11.

Regardless of the exact figures, it's reasonable to expect an increase in e-waste , with significant environmental consequences. Several organizations have expressed concern about this and proposed alternatives. Among these is Restart, a user group that advocates reusing devices instead of completely disposing of them.