Windows 10 support ended on 14 October 2025, but you may not need to replace your computer. Many PCs can upgrade to Windows 11 for free if they meet Microsoft’s hardware requirements. If your computer is not compatible, you may have other options, including Extended Security Updates (ESU) for eligible devices. The first step is to check whether your PC can run Windows 11.
What to consider if you continue using Windows 10
Continuing to use Windows 10 after standard support ended carries some risks to consider:
- Security: Without ongoing security updates, your computer may become more vulnerable to newly discovered threats, including malware and ransomware.
- Hardware: Existing devices such as printers, scanners and other accessories may continue to work, but future hardware and driver support is not guaranteed.
- Software: Some software developers may eventually stop supporting Windows 10, which could limit future updates and compatibility.
- Websites and online services: Browsers and online services may change their requirements over time. Some services could eventually work less reliably on an older system.
These changes will not necessarily happen immediately, and the risks depend partly on your software and security arrangements. Eligible computers enrolled in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme can continue receiving security updates for a limited time. However, ESU does not provide the full support offered by a currently supported version of Windows.
These things are not going to happen overnight but the sooner you upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase a new Windows 11 device, the safer and more secure you will be.
How do I check if I can get a free Windows 11 upgrade?
On your Windows 10 computer, open Start → Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update and check for messages about upgrading to Windows 11.
If Windows Update does not offer the upgrade, it does not necessarily mean your computer is incompatible. You can use Microsoft’s PC Health Check app to check whether your computer meets the Windows 11 hardware requirements and identify any compatibility issues.
The Windows Update screen may look different depending on your Windows version and update status.
Get PC Health Check App
Download Microsoft’s PC Health Check app from the official link: https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp. If the app does not open automatically after installation, use Windows Search on the taskbar to search for PC Health Check, then select it from the results.
After downloading the installer, open your browser’s Downloads list and select WindowsPCHealthCheckSetup.msi. Follow the prompts to install the app. If Windows asks for permission to make changes, check that you downloaded the installer from Microsoft’s official website before approving it.
On the left you will see details of your system. Now click on the “Check Now” button for Windows 11 compatibility.
The PC Health check says my computer is eligible for an upgrade, what now?
Great news! If PC Health Check confirms your computer meets the Windows 11 requirements, you can proceed with the upgrade.
Before you begin, back up your important files and make sure you have enough free storage. Keep your computer connected to power during the upgrade.
- Visit Microsoft’s official Download Windows 11 page.
- Under Windows 11 Installation Assistant, select Download Now.
- Run the downloaded tool and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the upgrade.
The upgrade is generally free for eligible Windows 10 computers, but check that your essential programs and devices are compatible before proceeding.
PC Health Check says my PC is not eligible for Windows 11. What now?
If PC Health Check says your computer does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, don’t assume you need to replace it immediately.
You have three main options:
- Check the reason: PC Health Check may identify which hardware requirement your computer fails. Some settings, such as TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, may be worth checking before deciding your computer is incompatible.
- Consider Extended Security Updates (ESU): Eligible Windows 10 computers can receive security updates for a limited time through Microsoft’s ESU programme. This is a temporary option, not a full replacement for supported Windows.
- Consider a new computer: If your computer is older, unreliable or unsuitable for your needs, moving to a Windows 11 device may be the best long-term choice.
Before replacing your computer, plan how to transfer your documents, photos, email and other important data, and check which programs will need to be reinstalled.
If you decide to move to a new Windows 11 computer, this guide explains six ways to transfer your files and programs from Windows 10, starting with the easiest options.
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