Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025: Microsoft no longer ships free security updates for it. If your PC is compatible, upgrade to Windows 11. If not, replace the device or, for a business, evaluate Extended Security Updates (ESU). Back up your files before doing anything.
This page summarizes facts published by Microsoft, verified on November 13, 2026, and gives a practical action plan for individuals and small businesses.
Facts verified against Microsoft
| Item | Information | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10 end of support | October 14, 2025 | Microsoft Learn, release information |
| Last supported version | Windows 10, version 22H2 | Microsoft Learn |
| Consumer ESU program | Enrollment possible until October 13, 2026 (program ended as of this page's date) | Microsoft Support |
| Business ESU (Pro, Enterprise, Education in commercial use) | Coverage years ending October 13, 2026, October 12, 2027 and October 10, 2028 | Microsoft Learn, ESU lifecycle FAQ |
| Nature of ESU | Critical and important security updates only, no technical support | Microsoft Support |
A PC running Windows 10 still starts and works, but without ESU it no longer receives regular security fixes. The risk grows over time.
Windows 11 minimum requirements
| Component | Minimum requirement (Microsoft) |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster, 2 or more cores, 64-bit, on the list of approved CPUs |
| Memory (RAM) | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB or larger |
| System firmware | UEFI with Secure Boot capability |
| TPM | Version 2.0 |
| Graphics card | DirectX 12 or later, WDDM 2.0 driver |
| Display | High definition (720p), larger than 9 inches, 8 bits per color channel |
Your options, compared
| Option | Best for | Advantage | Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to Windows 11 on the same PC | PC that meets the requirements | Keeps current hardware | Backup and software compatibility to validate |
| Replace the PC | Incompatible or very old PC | New hardware, full support | Cost and data transfer |
| ESU (businesses) | Fleet that cannot migrate yet | Temporary security fixes | Transition solution, limited duration |
| Linux alternative | Simple use, confident users | Supported system on older hardware | Software compatibility, new habits |
| Stay on Windows 10 without updates | Offline or isolated device only | No change | Growing security risk, not recommended online |
6-step action plan
- Back up your files to an external drive or cloud service, and check that you can reopen them.
- Check compatibility of each PC against the requirements above, for example with Microsoft's PC Health Check app or Windows Update.
- Take inventory of essential software and peripherals (accounting, printers, drivers).
- Choose between upgrade, replacement or an ESU transition using the table above.
- Migrate outside peak hours, with a test machine first for a business.
- Validate after migration: updates, antivirus, backups, email access.
For a business, also see our Windows 11 migration guide for small business.
Slow PC after the migration?
Slowness after an upgrade often comes from startup programs, a full drive or missing drivers. See our guide to fixing a slow computer.
Need a hand?
IT Cares helps check compatibility, back up and migrate, remotely or at home across Quebec and Canada, since 2014. Public rating: 4.9 from 101 Google reviews. 60-minute Expert Consultation: $119.99.
Is your PC compatible with Windows 11?
A 60-minute session can check compatibility, back up your files and plan the migration.
Frequently asked questions
Verified sources
- Microsoft Learn: Windows 10 release information
- Microsoft Support: Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates program
- Microsoft Learn: Lifecycle FAQ, Extended Security Updates
- Microsoft Support: Windows 11 system requirements
Last verified: November 13, 2026.