Windows 10 support ends tomorrow: What it means for millions of PC users, how to check if you’re affected, and what to do

Windows 10

Tomorrow — October 14, 2025 — marks a critical turning point: Microsoft ends support for Windows 10. After that, systems running Windows 10 will no longer receive security patches, bug fixes, or official support.  Let’s break down what this means for users, how to find out if you’re impacted, and what your best paths forward are.

What “end of support” really means
Your Windows 10 PC will still work, but it becomes increasingly vulnerable to new security threats. 
Microsoft will stop releasing security updates, feature updates, and technical support for all editions (Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education) after October 14, 2025. 
Without updates, unpatched vulnerabilities can be exploited, software compatibility may degrade, and system stability may suffer. 
Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program — for eligible devices — to continue receiving critical security patches beyond the cutoff.

How to check if your PC is affected
Check your Windows version – Go to Settings → System → About
If it says Windows 10, you’re on a system being affected.

Verify edition & version
The final supported version is Windows 10, version 22H2. 
Any device still running earlier versions (e.g., 21H2, 20H2) is also affected since they already have or will lose support.

Check eligibility for upgrade/ESU
Microsoft’s support pages provide criteria for ESU and Windows 11 upgrade paths. 
You can check “Windows Update → Upgrade to Windows 11” to see if your hardware meets the requirements.

What you should do today

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC supports it)
Most modern PCs meet the requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, supported CPU).
The migration path is free on eligible hardware. 
Be sure to back up your files before upgrading.

Option 2: Use Extended Security Updates (ESU)
For systems that can’t upgrade immediately, ESU lets you receive security updates until October 13, 2026 (for consumers). 
Note: ESU does not include technical support and may require a Microsoft account or paid enrollment depending on your region. 

Option 3: Switch operating systems or hardware
If your PC isn’t compatible with Windows 11 and ESU isn’t ideal, you can migrate to Linux distributions, ChromeOS, or a new Windows 11–capable machine.
Before making any move, back up your important files to an external drive or cloud.

With support ending tomorrow, every PC still running Windows 10 is entering a risky phase. If you haven’t yet, check now whether your system is eligible to upgrade or enroll in ESU, and back up your data immediately. Taking action today ensures your machine stays safer, usable, and more reliable in the months ahead.