The end of Windows 10 and upgrading to Windows 11. We explain your options.
The end of Windows 10
Windows 10 was released in 2015 and Windows 11 was released in 2021. Windows 10 has been a solid and stable version of Windows. and in my opinion much better than Windows 11. But with support of Windows 10 coming to an end on 14th October 2025 its important to consider your options.
What end of support means
You will probably be familiar with Windows doing updates on a regular basis. These updates come in two forms - quality updates and feature updates. The quality dates fix problems with Windows including security bugs and these are important updates to ensure your computer stays safe online. Feature updates add new features to Windows. After 14th April 2025 Microsoft will no longer provide either of these types of updates on Windows 10.
Whilst a computer running Windows 10 will still work after 14th October it is these updates which are important in keeping the computer secure. When security holes are found in Windows, Microsoft issues an update to fix it. But after 14th October 2025 if a new security hole is found in Windows 10 then Microsoft won’t fix it, which leaves your computer vulnerable to security risks and hacks.
Anti-virus software won't keep your computer safe after 14 October 2025
If you think by having a security software / anti-virus program installed is going to protect you then you are mistaken. Security software stops virus and malware. It doesn’t stop people exploiting security vulnerabilities in Windows. For example, in 2017 the Wannacry virus brought the NHS computer systems to its knees because they were still running an old version of Windows which was no longer supported by Microsoft. This is why IT professionals always insist on keeping your computer up to date.
We can help you navigate the end of Windows 10. Don't leave it till the last minute and contact us today for professional advice.
Upgrading to Windows 11
Windows 11 will continue getting updates for several more years and Microsoft would like you to upgrade to Windows 11, rather than stay on Windows 10. However, Windows 11 has strict hardware requirements which means that not all computers running Windows 10 can support Windows 11. If your PC is older than 7 years then there is a good chance that it can’t run Windows 11. Microsoft have the PC Health Check app that will check if your computer can run Windows 11. The results of this will let you know if you PC can run Windows 11 and if not, why not.
Your options
If your computer can’t run Windows 11 then you have four options.
- Sign up for Microsoft ESU program to keep getting security updates for one more year. This will keep your Windows 10 computer supported till October 2025. The cost for this will range from £0 to £25 and further details will be announced later in August 2025.
- If you have a desktop PC it might be possible to upgrade components so your PC can run Windows 11.
- Buy a brand new Windows 11 computer.
- Buy a refurbished windows 11 computer from MCS.
What MCS recommend
If your Windows 10 computer is working well for you then I would recommend the Microsoft ESU program.
If your Windows 10 computer is old and slow and overdue for replacement then I would recommend getting a new one or a refurbished one. I can help you choose the best computer for your needs and budget.
Setting up a new computer
If you decide to get a new computer (refurbished or brand new) I can help you setup it up and transfer all your documents and photos from the old one to the new computer. I can also setup email accounts and printers and backup options.
Contact Me
If you would like help on upgrading your existing computer or buying a new one please fill in the contact form below and I will get back to you very soon.