​What Does Windows 10 End of Life Mean for You?

​What Does Windows 10 End of Life Mean for You?

Posted by Sean Moore on Nov 11th 2024

If you are one of the many people still using Windows 10, then there is a big date up on the horizon: October 14, 2025. That's right—it's called the End of Life for Windows 10. But what does that mean anyway?

End of Life Explained:

When we say Windows 10 is reaching its EOL, it means Microsoft will no longer provide:

  • Security Updates: These are important to protect your computer from malware, viruses, and other security threats. Without them, your PC is an exposed target.
  • Software Updates: No more feature updates, bug fixes, or performance improvements. Your version of Windows 10 will be frozen in time.
  • Tech Support: If you face any problem with your system, or you need assistance, then you will not get official support.
    • Why Would You Be Bothered?

    Using Windows 10 beyond its End Of Life will put you at the risk of:

  • Security Risks: The new vulnerabilities will be there without a patch leaving your system open to cyber attackers
  • Compatibility Issues: New software and hardware may refuse to work on an old operating system.
  • Performance Degradation: Your system may begin to slow down over time, or it could become less efficient—like everything that you update.

    • What You Can Do:

    1. Update to Windows 11: You can now upgrade to Windows 11 free of charge if your PC meets the system requirements. You can check this via Windows Update or use tools like the PC Health Check app.
    2. Get a New PC: New devices come with Windows 11, the most secure ever and with new features including AI improvements if you go for newer models with advanced processors.
    3. Extended Security Updates (ESU): For those unable to or not desiring to upgrade, Microsoft offers an ESU for Windows 10, but this comes at a cost, doubling each year and mainly aimed at businesses.
    4. Alternatives: This may be the very opportunity to look at other operating systems, among them Linux, should your hardware fail to support Windows 11.
    5. Backup and Prepare: Make a backup of your data, regardless of the decision you make. Whether you are upgrading or switching, a backup will not let any important information go lost.

    Conclusion:

    Windows 10's EOL is not the end of the world, but it does require some action on your part. Whether you decide to go for an upgrade, buy a new system, or dabble with different operating systems, all that will matter is staying informed and being prepared. After all, technology changes, and keeping up with it not only keeps you safe but also makes sure you're always benefiting from the latest features and improvements in computer processing. So, mark your calendar for October 2025 and decide how you're going to navigate that transition from Windows 10.