Official support for Windows 10 ends on 14 October 2025, meaning Microsoft will no longer offer fixes, new features or security updates after that date.
If you have a Windows 10 PC, you’ve likely already seen notifications informing you about the end of support. For PCs eligible for Windows 11, this includes the option to upgrade to Windows 11 for free.
Read on to find out why maintaining security support is so important, how to upgrade to Windows 11 and what to do if you can’t.
If you have a PC running an older Windows version such as Windows 7 or 8.1, you’ll need to buy a new computer – keep reading for our advice on what specs to look for.
Best laptops – our comprehensive tests ensure you get a dependable laptop that will last
Why you need security support
Windows updates make sure your PC stays secure through security updates and the latest fixes, so it continues to run properly and stay protected.
Microsoft also releases feature updates, typically twice a year, that can add new functionality.
After support ends in October 2025, Windows 10 will still function – but it won’t get security updates or fixes. Hackers and criminals often target unsupported software to exploit weaknesses and steal data. You might also find over time that some features or software no longer work on your PC.
We recommend to upgrade when you can. This will keep your data safe and your PC running smoothly.
Best antivirus software – this is an essential tool in your PC’s arsenal to protect you from threats. Our experts reveal the best free and subscription options.
If you’re not sure which version of Windows you’re using, right-click on the Start (Windows) button, usually found in the bottom-left of your screen, or press the Windows key on your keyboard. When the menu pops up, select Settings. Then choose System, About and the version of Windows you’re using will be listed – it will probably be some version of Windows 10, 8.1 or 7.
You might instead have a Chromebook, which runs Google’s rival Chrome OS. Look for an ‘O’ in the bottom-left of the screen, rather than the Windows symbol. Most of the default programs are Google programs.
What you can do about Windows 10 losing security support
The golden rule is to avoid running an unsupported operating system if you possibly can, and get off it as soon as possible.
Here are four options to consider, depending on your situation. Keep scrolling for more detailed information.
- Upgrade to Windows 11 for free You can do this if you’re running Windows 10 and if your PC has the necessary specs for Windows 11. You’ll likely have received notifications to upgrade from Microsoft if this is the case.
- Buy a new PC If your computer doesn’t support Windows 11, plan to buy a new model before Windows 10 support ends. Wondering whether to switch from Windows? See Chromebook vs MacBook vs Windows.
- Convert your Windows laptop to a Chromebook ChromeOS isn’t as demanding on PC specs as Windows 11. So if you have a laptop that won’t support Windows 11, you can consider switching it from Windows to ChromeOS Flex for free – keep reading to find out how to do this.
- You might be able to upgrade your specs If your PC doesn’t currently support Windows 11, check if it’s upgradeable. You’d need to upgrade it to meet whatever specification of Windows 11 it doesn’t currently support. This might not be possible – particularly if you have a laptop.
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How to upgrade to Windows 11
You can upgrade to Windows 11 for free if you’re running Windows 10 and your PC supports it. If it does, you’ll likely have received notifications to upgrade from Microsoft. You can also use our free tool to check – see is my PC Window 11 compatible? If your device is more than four years old, it’s much less likely to be compatible.
It’s worth upgrading to Windows 11 sooner rather than later – take advantage of Microsoft’s offer to upgrade for free while it lasts. All you need to do is:
- Click the Windows Start button (or press the Windows key on your keyboard), click Update & Security then Windows Update.
If you’ve been putting it off because you’re unsure about changing, be aware that Windows 11 feels similar to Windows 10 and it’s actually been simplified to make it easier to use. Speed and performance has also been improved – which is handy if your PC is compatible but isn’t as fast as it once was.
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What if you can’t upgrade?
If your PC isn’t compatible, buy a new model when you are able. Black Friday is coming up, so this is a great time to be on the lookout for a new laptop – keep an eye on our expert pick of the best laptop deals.
Which? laptops expert, Oliver Trebilcock, says:
‘We only select genuinely good-value deals on laptops that perform well in our rigorous lab tests, so you aren’t lured into spending your money on a deal that isn’t as good as it seems.
‘We will be regularly updating our laptop deals through November when the sales are on, so it’s a really handy resource if you want to spend less on a good model.’
Know your specs
Look for:
- at least 8GB Ram (if you can, choose 16GB for future-proofing)
- at least 256GB solid-state drive (SSD) storage (ideally more)
- at least Intel i5 or the AMD Ryzen 5 equivalent. Avoid any Intel Pentium or Celeron processors, as these are now too outdated for future-proofing.
If you want Microsoft’s AI, Copilot+, you’ll need 16GB Ram, a Snapdragon X Series processor and at least 512MB SSD.
Use our expert laptop reviews to find the right model for your needs. On a tight budget? See our pick of the best budget laptops
Convert your laptop to a Chromebook
If you’re reluctant to upgrade your PC, consider whether converting your Windows laptop to a Chromebook is right for you. ChromeOS Flex is free to install and has much lighter requirements than Windows 11, so it’s likely to be compatible with your older device.
Chromebooks run ChromeOS. It works differently from Windows: it has an online focus and needs you to have a Google account. You do all your tasks online via your browser or through apps downloaded from the Google Play store. If you mainly use online apps, such as Google’s own Docs and Sheets, a Chromebook could suit you well.
Also, many popular apps, including Microsoft Office, are available to download or buy. However, Windows software isn’t compatible – so some programs may not be available.
Find out more about how to turn your old laptop into a free Chromebook.
Upgrade your existing computer
This isn’t an option for everyone, as it depends on your PC.
One requirement for Windows 11 is a Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0) chip, which enhances security but is mostly only on PCs released in the past four years. Upgrading existing hardware can also be a hassle if you’re not an enthusiast, and there’s a risk of error if you don’t know what you’re doing (certainly make sure your data is properly backed up before attempting this).
Also consider the cost of the upgrade, or paying someone to do it, versus the cost and simplicity of just buying a new PC. If you do want to go ahead, you can find a local, trustworthy computer repair shop using Which? Trusted Traders.
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