Heard the news about Windows 10 “retiring”? It might sound worrying, especially if technology isn’t your favourite thing. But don’t worry! This simple guide explains exactly what’s happening, what it means for you, and the easy steps you can take. I’ll keep it jargon-free, just like my friendly remote IT support.
1. What’s Happening and When?
Microsoft will stop giving free updates to Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. Your computer will still function, but it will no longer receive the security fixes that keep online nasties out.(Microsoft Support, Microsoft)
2. Why You Should Care
Without those fixes, burglars on the internet can discover new “holes” in Windows 10 and creep in to steal passwords, bank details or family photos. Think of it like a house with old locks that are never changed and over time it becomes known how to pick them.
3. Your Four Main Options
| Quick view | Good for | Ball‑park cost* | How long it helps | Things to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A. Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC allows it) | Anyone with a fairly modern PC | Free upgrade download (your internet provider may charge for large downloads)(Microsoft) | Ongoing – Windows 11 is fully supported | Your PC must have a modern processor and a security chip called TPM 2.0. I can check this for you! |
| B. Buy Microsoft’s “Extended Security Updates” (ESU) | Those who want an extra year on the same PC | ≈ £23 – £27 for one year (listed by Microsoft as US $30; UK price will vary with exchange rate & VAT) | To Oct 2026 (one year) | Gives only critical security patches – no new features, no tech support. |
| C. Subscribe to 0patch “micropatches” | PCs that can’t run Windows 11 and need several more years | ≈ £21 + VAT (~£25) per year ( €24.95)(0patch.com, Xe) | “At least 5 years” (to 2030)(0patch Blog) | Tiny security fixes load in memory – usually no restarts needed. You manage it yourself online. |
| D. Move to an alternative system (e.g., Linux) | Very old PCs or people willing to learn something new | Free | 5‑10 years (depends on version) | Ubuntu and Linux Mint run well on older kit and get regular updates. |
*Prices converted with the mid‑market exchange rate on 3 May 2025 (1 USD ≈ £0.75; 1 EUR ≈ £0.85). Actual checkout price can rise with currency swings and VAT.
4. A Simple Decision Path
- Run Microsoft’s “PC Health Check” (free download) to see if your computer can handle Windows 11.
- If it says “Yes”
- Back‑up your files (OneDrive, external drive or another cloud).
- Accept the free upgrade via Settings ▶ Windows Update.
- If it says “No”
- Decide whether the PC is worth keeping:
- Short breather (12 months): Pay for Microsoft ESU.
- Longer life (up to 5 years): Use 0patch.
- Or buy a new Windows 11 PC (look for 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD or bigger, and the TPM 2.0 feature).
- Or try Linux – good for email, browsing, word‑processing.
- Decide whether the PC is worth keeping:
5. What About Antivirus?
Microsoft Defender (the built‑in antivirus) is expected to keep receiving new virus definitions for several years after October 2025, just as it did for older versions of Windows. That’s helpful, but it doesn’t close the security holes in Windows itself, so you’ll still need one of the options above.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
- Will my PC stop working on 15 October 2025?
No, it will run as usual – just without safety updates.(Microsoft) - Can I stay on Windows 10 and just use an extra antivirus?
Antivirus helps, but it can’t patch flaws in Windows. Think of it as wearing a seat‑belt in a car with faulty brakes. - Why is the ESU only one year for home users?
Microsoft says home licences get a single‑year ESU; businesses can pay for up to three.(Microsoft Learn) - Does 0patch slow the computer down?
Patches are tiny and load into (RAM) memory; most users don’t notice any performance hit.(0patch Blog)
7. Simple Summary & Getting Help
- Key Date: Remember 14 October 2025. Aim to have a plan before then.
- Check First: See if your PC can run Windows 11 for free – it’s often the best path.
- No Windows 11? You have options like paid security (ESU for 1 year, 0patch for longer) or considering a new PC if yours is old.
- Don’t Rely Only on Antivirus: It’s helpful, but not enough well after Oct 2025.
Feeling Overwhelmed? You Don’t Have to Be.
This change might seem like a hassle, but dealing with it now keeps you safe online later. If you’re unsure about any of these steps, need help checking your PC’s compatibility, backing up files, performing the upgrade, or just want to chat through the options in plain English, that’s exactly what I’m here for.