Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. If you still have a Windows 10 laptop or desktop at home, it has not stopped working, but it no longer receives the regular free security updates that protect it against newly discovered threats. This guide explains what Windows 10 end of support means in practice, how to check whether your PC can move to Windows 11, what the Extended Security Updates programme offered, and when it makes more sense to replace or repurpose the machine.
Microsoft’s dates, prices and programme terms can change, so confirm the latest details on Microsoft’s official support pages before acting.
What End of Support Actually Means
When an operating system reaches end of support, the maker stops providing:
- Security updates that fix newly found weaknesses
- Feature and quality updates that fix bugs or add functions
- Technical support for problems with that version
Your files, apps and settings stay as they are, and the computer still turns on. The risk builds over time. As attackers find new weaknesses in Windows 10, those holes stay open on unsupported machines. That matters most for anything you do online that involves money, identity or personal data, such as internet banking, Singpass logins, shopping and email.
Some software makers also gradually stop supporting their apps on older operating systems, and newer printers, accessories and games may not ship drivers for Windows 10. So even if security is not your main worry, compatibility will slowly get worse.
Step 1: Check Whether Your PC Can Run Windows 11
For most people, the simplest path is a free upgrade to Windows 11 on the same computer, if the hardware qualifies. Windows 11 has stricter requirements than Windows 10. Key ones include:
- A supported processor. Generally newer Intel and AMD chips; many PCs from around 2018 onwards qualify, while older ones often do not. Microsoft publishes the list of supported processors.
- TPM 2.0. A security chip, called the Trusted Platform Module, that most recent PCs have but may need to be switched on in the firmware settings.
- Secure Boot capable firmware, using UEFI rather than the older BIOS mode.
- At least 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage, though more makes for a much smoother experience.
How to check: Open Windows Update in Settings. If your PC is eligible, it will usually say so and offer the upgrade. You can also download Microsoft’s free PC Health Check app, which tells you whether the computer meets the requirements and, if not, which requirement is the problem.
Before you upgrade:
- Back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Note your passwords, licence keys for paid software and two-factor authentication methods.
- Plug in the laptop and allow plenty of time, as the upgrade can take a while.
- After upgrading, run Windows Update again to pick up the latest patches and drivers.
If PC Health Check says the processor is unsupported, you will see guides online for forcing Windows 11 onto older hardware. Microsoft does not recommend this, and such machines may not receive updates reliably, so it is not a good choice for most households.
Step 2: Understand Extended Security Updates
Microsoft offered an Extended Security Updates programme, known as ESU, as a bridge for people not ready to move. ESU provides critical and important security fixes only, with no new features or general technical support.
For home users, consumer ESU was a one-year option running to October 2026, enrolled through Windows Update with a few different ways to qualify. Businesses and organisations could buy ESU for longer through Microsoft’s commercial licensing, priced and renewed separately. Check Microsoft’s ESU pages for what is currently available for your situation, as the consumer window was limited.
ESU was always meant as a temporary safety net, not a long-term plan. If your PC cannot run Windows 11, use any remaining ESU time to plan a replacement calmly rather than in a rush.
Step 3: Weigh Your Options
| Option | Best for | Cost level | Things to watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to Windows 11 | PCs that meet the requirements | Free upgrade | Back up first, check older apps and printers still work |
| Extended Security Updates | Buying time while you plan | Varies, check Microsoft | Temporary, security fixes only |
| Replace the PC | Unsupported or slow machines | Highest | Transfer data, wipe and recycle the old device |
| Switch to another operating system | Older PCs used mainly for browsing | Usually free | Learning curve, some Windows apps will not run |
| Keep offline | Single-purpose use such as old software or a music library | None | Do not use it for banking, email or browsing |
Replacing the PC. If your computer is unsupported, slow or several years old, a new device may be the better use of money. Think about what you actually do: a browser-based laptop, a tablet with a keyboard, or a mid-range Windows 11 laptop may suit light users, while gamers and creative users need more power. Compare warranty length and local service support when buying.
Switching operating systems. Some older PCs can be given a second life with a lightweight operating system, such as a browser-focused system or a beginner-friendly Linux distribution. This works well for web browsing, email and documents, but not for Windows-only software.
Keeping it offline. An old PC used only for a specific offline task, such as running legacy software, can stay on Windows 10 if it is disconnected from the internet and not used for anything sensitive.
Extending the hardware you keep. If your PC qualifies for Windows 11 but feels tired, simple fixes like more memory, a solid-state drive or a new battery can help. See our guide to replacing a phone or laptop battery.
Staying Safe If You Are Still on Windows 10
If you cannot move immediately, reduce the risk while you plan:
- Keep your web browser and apps updated, as browsers often continue receiving updates for a period.
- Keep Microsoft Defender or your antivirus running and up to date.
- Avoid using the PC for internet banking and government services where possible; use a supported phone or computer instead.
- Turn on two-factor authentication for important accounts.
- Be extra careful with email attachments and links.
- Set a deadline for moving, rather than leaving it open-ended.
Retiring Your Old PC Responsibly
When you replace a Windows 10 computer, handle the old one carefully.
- Move your data. Copy files, photos and browser bookmarks to the new device or cloud storage, and check they opened correctly.
- Sign out and deauthorise. Sign out of Microsoft, Apple, Google and other accounts, and deauthorise software licences tied to the device.
- Wipe the drive. Use Windows’ built-in “Reset this PC” option with the setting that cleans the drive, so your personal data cannot be easily recovered.
- Recycle, donate or trade in. In Singapore, computers and laptops can go into the e-waste recycling channels set up under the National Environment Agency (NEA) scheme, including collection points at many retailers and public locations. Check NEA’s website for current drop-off options. A working PC that qualifies for Windows 11 may also suit donation or trade-in programmes.
If you are torn between upgrading and buying new, a quick framework like the 10-10-10 rule for decisions can help you think about cost, convenience and how long you want the device to last.
Further reading: How to Use Microsoft Copilot in Windows and Office