If you’re still using a Windows 10 computer — and plenty of people are — you may have seen a pop-up or heard someone mention that Microsoft “ended support.” It sounds alarming. It doesn’t have to be. Here’s what it actually means, and what your real options are.
What “End of Support” Actually Means
Microsoft officially stopped supporting Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. That date passed quietly for a lot of people, which is exactly why we’re writing this now.
“End of support” does not mean your computer stops working. It means Microsoft will no longer release security patches, bug fixes, or updates for Windows 10. Your PC will keep running just fine — but over time, newly discovered security holes won’t get plugged by Microsoft. That’s the part worth paying attention to.
Step One: Find Out What You’re Running
Not sure which version of Windows your computer has? Here’s the quickest way to check:
- Click the Start button (the Windows logo in the corner)
- Type “winver” and press Enter
- A small window pops up showing your Windows version
If it says Windows 10, read on. If it says Windows 11, you’re already on the supported version and can stop worrying.
Your Options — No Pressure, Just the Facts
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (Free, If Your PC Qualifies)
Windows 11 is a free upgrade for many Windows 10 machines — but there’s a catch. Microsoft set minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11, and older PCs often don’t meet them. The most common sticking point is something called TPM 2.0, a small security chip that many computers made before 2018 or so don’t have.
To check if your PC qualifies, search for and run the PC Health Check app in Windows. It’ll tell you in about 30 seconds whether your machine can make the jump. If it can, upgrading is usually the best move.
Option 2: Buy a New Computer
If your PC is five or more years old, this might actually be the right call regardless of Windows versions. Older hardware tends to run slowly, develops other quirks, and can struggle with the demands of modern software. A new Windows 11 machine gives you a clean start, years of support ahead of you, and noticeably better performance.
We help clients figure out exactly what they need — and what they don’t need — so you’re not overpaying for specs that won’t matter to you.
Option 3: Keep Using Windows 10 (With Eyes Open)
Some people will reasonably choose to keep using Windows 10 for a while longer, especially if the computer is used lightly — checking email, streaming, basic browsing. That’s an understandable choice. Just go in knowing the risks are gradually increasing over time, and consider a few precautions:
- Make sure you have a good antivirus program running and updated
- Back up your important files regularly (we have a whole post on free backup options)
- Be extra cautious about phishing emails and suspicious downloads
- Plan your transition — this isn’t a solution you want to put off for another two or three years
Option 4: Business Owners — Extended Security Updates Exist
If you run a small business and you’re not ready to migrate yet, Microsoft does offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 as a paid option through October 2028. It’s not free, and it’s not a long-term fix, but it gives businesses more breathing room to plan a proper upgrade. Worth knowing about.
What We Typically Recommend
For most homeowners: if your PC passes the PC Health Check, upgrade to Windows 11 now. If it doesn’t, and especially if it’s older than five years, it’s worth budgeting for a replacement in the next few months.
For small businesses: don’t leave this decision until something breaks. Get an inventory of which machines are still on Windows 10, figure out which can be upgraded, and make a plan. Doing it on your timeline is much better than doing it in a panic.
We’re Happy to Take a Look
If you’re not sure where your computer stands — or you’d rather have someone else handle the upgrade or shopping decision — we’re here. We serve homeowners and small businesses throughout Monmouth County, and we can help remotely or come to you directly.
Give us a call at (732) 637-9640 and we’ll figure out the right next step together.