What To Do If Your Windows 10 Computer Can't Be Upgraded
Consider These 5 Options Before Support Ends in October 2025
Microsoft's most popular operating system is nearing the end of its support lifecycle. With the October 2025 deadline approaching, here's what to do if your Windows 10 PCs fail Microsoft's Windows 11 compatibility checks.
Some believe Microsoft will extend the deadline at the last minute, but that's unlikely. The end-of-support date is clearly listed in Microsoft's official document on "products retiring or reaching end of support in 2025."
According to Microsoft's Modern Lifecycle Policy, as documented on their support page:
"Windows 10 will reach end of support on October 14, 2025. Version 22H2 will be the final version, and all editions will receive monthly security updates until that date." Based on previous situations they will stick to this timeline.
After October 2025 – Windows 10 Expiry
After the end-of-support date, the software will continue functioning, but no further updates will be available:
"There will be no new security updates, non-security updates, or assisted support. Customers are encouraged to upgrade to the latest version or service. Paid programs may be available for eligible products."
For those using Windows 10 on hardware that doesn’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, this isn't a viable option. No more updates means your computer security will continue to get more and more out of date and there at every increasing risk of being hacked or have an infection. So, what can you do? Here are five options to consider:
1. Ignore the deadline
You could continue running Windows 10 despite the risks, but this leaves you vulnerable to security exploits. Some rely on third-party antivirus tools, but that’s not a foolproof strategy.
For added protection, consider installing the free 0patch agent, which addresses known vulnerabilities. However, for full coverage or business use, you’ll need a paid Pro plan costing just a few dollars per month.
You could also employ an antivirus (not Windows Defender as it will stop working with Windows 10) to deal with infections as they happen (since you’re computer will be somewhat open to virus problems). We recommend ESET or MalwareBytes – the paid editions are best.
2. Purchase a new PC
Replacing your outdated hardware with a new PC is an option. Devices like the new Copilot+ PCs with neural processing units or high-performance gaming machines might tempt you. However, discarding functional hardware can feel wasteful—especially if you rely on software incompatible with Windows 11. If you do purchase, make sure the unit has 8 or even better, 16GB of RAM to handle these new features.
Alternatively, you could opt for a Windows 365 subscription, granting access to a cloud-based Windows 11 virtual PC. While less expensive than buying a new PC, Windows 365 still comes with a subscription fee.
3. Switch to Linux or ChromeOS Flex
You can keep your existing hardware and replace Windows 10 with Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Linux is ideal for tech-savvy users who can handle the transition. How do you know if you can handle this option? Have you ever installed Linux? Have you a high level of skill with nerdy or geek things? Then you might be fine. It’s not an easy road if you are new to it as there is a large number of things to know.
Also: A guide to replacing Windows with Linux Mint
Installing ChromeOS Flex may also work, but check Google’s certified models list before starting. Be cautious of its own end-of-support dates, as they may not offer a long-term solution.
4. Pay Microsoft for security updates
Remember the official support document mentioned earlier? The one stating there will be "no new security updates" after Windows 10's end-of-support date? That’s not entirely accurate.
Microsoft will continue to provide security updates for Windows 10, but they won’t be free. In December 2023, Microsoft announced it would offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 through a subscription service available for up to three years.
Microsoft will start charging for Windows 10 updates next year. Here's how much
How much will these updates cost? In April 2024, Microsoft detailed pricing for business and education customers. If you manage Windows 10 Education edition at a school, you’re in luck. Extended updates will cost just $1USD per machine in the first year, $2 USD in the second, and $4 USD in the third, covering support through 2028.
IT professionals managing business PCs face steeper costs:
The ESU subscription for businesses starts at $61USD for the first year, doubles to $122 USD in the second, and jumps to $244 USD in the third. In total, a three-year subscription amounts to $427 USD per device—a significant investment.
Consumers have a smaller-scale option. For $30 USD, you can buy an additional year of security updates, extending support until October 2026. While much cheaper than the business option, this offer only lasts for one year, after which the device is unsupported again.
5. Upgrade your 'incompatible' hardware to Windows 11
That troublesome compatibility checker might claim your Windows 10 PC isn’t eligible for Windows 11, but there are officially supported ways to bypass those requirements. It just takes a bit of technical know-how. If you have a desktop computer this will be significantly easier than a laptop as most laptops are difficult or impossible to upgrade the motherboard or CPU. Or more specifically it CAN be done, but it’s often more expensive than simply buying a new laptop.
If your PC was built for Windows 10, a simple registry edit can allow an upgrade. Ensure Secure Boot is enabled and your PC has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM)—even an older TPM 1.2 will work. Many users report this method works without issues once configured properly.
For older devices designed for Windows 7 or 8.1, you may need to use a third-party tool like Rufus to overcome installation barriers. This is particularly useful for systems with legacy BIOS instead of UEFI firmware or those lacking TPM support. Be sure to use Rufus version 4.6 beta or later to bypass Microsoft’s latest checks.
Also: This hidden Windows 11 setting lets you kill unresponsive apps right from the taskbar
Don’t panic if you see a warning message during an unsupported upgrade:
"If you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won't be entitled to receive updates. Damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren't covered under the manufacturer warranty."
This language, while ominous, is intentionally vague. As noted before, this warning doesn’t mean Microsoft will cut off updates entirely; it simply states your device isn’t “entitled” to them. It’s a legal disclaimer, not a definitive denial of updates.
Also: How to screen record in Windows 10 or 11 with built-in tools
For those who prefer not to edit the registry, a clean installation using Rufus is another option. Rufus can create a bootable Windows 11 installation drive, bypassing compatibility checks altogether. While this requires restoring files from backups and reinstalling software, it’s no more complex than setting up a new computer. So if you are comfortable with that kind of installation on your laptop then you might be able to handle it.
All in all, Microsoft is forcing this upgrade but they have given us plenty of time to prepare. So now is the time. If you need help, we are here to help. It’s in our name! Call the team now.