Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. A Windows 10 computer does not suddenly stop working, but Microsoft no longer provides the usual free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for standard Windows 10 editions. You can take this one step at a time, starting with your files and the facts about your computer.
Back up important files before making a major change
Before an operating-system upgrade, hardware change, or computer replacement, make a separate copy of the photos, documents, business records, and other files you cannot easily replace. Check that the backup finished and open a few copied files before relying on it.
Windows Backup can copy selected folders and settings through a personal Microsoft account and OneDrive. An external drive is another option. The right choice depends on where your files are stored, how much space they need, and which account owns them.
Find the Windows version and computer model
Right-click Start, open Settings, choose System, then About. Under Windows specifications, note the edition and version. On the same page, look for the device or model name, processor, installed memory, and system type.
The model number can also appear on a label underneath a laptop, on the back of a desktop, or in the manufacturer's support app. Take a photo or write it down instead of guessing from the computer's appearance.
- Windows edition and version
- Computer manufacturer and exact model
- Processor name and installed memory
- Available storage space
- Programs, printer, scanner, and accessories that still need to work
Check whether the computer qualifies for Windows 11
Microsoft's PC Health Check app provides the simplest eligibility check for a personal Windows 10 computer. Open the app, choose Check now, and read the reason shown if the computer does not qualify. Windows Update may also show upgrade eligibility under Settings, Update & Security, then Windows Update.
Microsoft's minimum requirements include a compatible 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz and two cores, 4 GB of memory, 64 GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, TPM 2.0, compatible graphics, and a suitable display. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee that every older program, printer, or accessory will work as expected.
Choose the next step that fits the computer
If the computer is eligible, Windows Update may offer Windows 11. Back up first, connect the computer to power, check important program and accessory compatibility, and use Microsoft's normal upgrade path.
If it is not eligible, a hardware assessment can show whether memory or storage would still improve everyday use and whether any supported setting is simply turned off. A faster drive or more memory does not make every processor, firmware, or TPM compatible with Windows 11, and some parts cannot be upgraded economically.
Replacement may be the clearer choice when the computer cannot run a supported operating system, has several failing parts, or no longer fits the programs and tasks you need. Plan the file transfer, account access, software licenses, printer setup, and old-device erase before letting the old computer go.
Check the current consumer security-update option
As reviewed on October 8, 2026, Microsoft's consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) page lists coverage through October 12, 2027 for eligible enrolled Windows 10 PCs. Microsoft says existing consumer enrollment continues through that date automatically. Check your enrollment under Settings, Update & Security, then Windows Update.
Consumer ESU provides critical and important security updates for eligible Windows 10 version 22H2 devices. It does not restore normal technical support, new features, or every type of software fix. Eligibility, enrollment choices, and regional terms are on Microsoft's linked program page below.
Business computers need a separate check: consumer ESU is not for commercial use, and managed workplace devices may need the organization's commercial ESU program. Confirm the device's purpose and enrollment before assuming a home-PC option applies.
Treat urgent upgrade calls and pop-ups as suspicious
Windows 10 reaching end of support does not make an unexpected caller, warning, or website legitimate. Do not call a number shown in a pop-up, install a remote-control app for an unexpected caller, or share a password or one-time security code.
Open Windows Update or Microsoft's support site yourself. If you want local help, use the phone number or request form on this website. You stay in control of passwords, security codes, purchases, and any decision to change or replace the computer.