Windows 10: end of support in 2025 — should you upgrade to Windows 11 (and what alternatives)?

After the end of Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, your PC will still work but will be vulnerable to cyberattacks and security flaws.

TL;DR

• Windows 10 is no longer supported after October 14, 2025 (no more security/quality updates).
• Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10: security updates only until October 10, 2028.
• Windows 10 ESU: paid security patches after 2025 — for enterprise/education (up to 3 years), and a consumer option (low cost, 1 year).
• Alternatives: hardware replacement, Windows 365, ChromeOS Flex, Linux.

Why migrate to Windows 11?

• Modernized security: hardware requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot) and protections (VBS/HVCI).
• Lifecycle: Windows 11 continues to evolve, while Windows 10 ends in 2025 (excluding ESU).
• Microsoft 365 compatibility: full support on Windows 11; on Windows 10, apps only receive security updates (until 2028).

My PCs are not compatible with Windows 11: my options

1) ESU (Extended Security Updates) Program

Enterprise/education: patches for up to 3 years after 2025 (annual purchase).
Consumer: 1-year option via enrollment assistant (low cost). Does not include new features.

2) Windows 365 / Cloud PC

A Windows 11 workstation in the cloud, accessible from an old PC; can serve as a transition while maintaining security.

3) ChromeOS Flex (free)

Converts old PCs/Macs into "Chromebooks" for web/light office use, with possible management.

4) Linux (e.g., Ubuntu LTS)

Office work (LibreOffice), web, and some business apps; plan for support during the transition in habits.

Option (at your own risk) — bypass prerequisites for Windows 11 with Rufus (personal use)

This is not recommended by Microsoft and is not suitable for professional environments. On unsupported hardware, your PC may not receive all updates, and you will be out of support.

Steps (summary)

1. Back up your data (system image/OneDrive).
2. Download theofficial Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft.
3. Download Rufus (rufus.ie) then create a bootable USB drive from the ISO.
4. After clicking "Start" in Rufus, use the "Windows User Experience" dialog to check the options for removing checks (TPM/Secure Boot/RAM) if offered.
5. Boot from the USB drive: perform an in-place upgrade (setup.exe) or a "clean install" (recommended).
   Warning: Microsoft states that non-compliant devices may not receive updates and are not supported. To be reserved for informed individuals, as a last resort, while awaiting hardware replacement.

Recommended Roadmap (SMB/NPO)

1. Inventory your fleet (model, CPU, RAM, TPM/Secure Boot).
2. Segment: Windows 11 compatible => upgrade; incompatible critical => ESU + replacement plan; incompatible non-critical => Windows 365 / ChromeOS Flex / Linux.
3. Manage the transition: backup, drivers/BIOS, software testing, deployment (Intune/Autopilot if applicable).
4. Train and communicate (Windows 11 guide, Microsoft 365 best practices).
5. Retire/sanitize obsolete workstations (secure erasure, hardware recycling).

FAQ — Windows 10 to Windows 11

When does Windows 10 stop being supported?

On October 14, 2025.

Can I continue using Microsoft 365 on Windows 10?

Microsoft 365 apps receive security updates until October 10, 2028, but standard Windows 10 support ends in 2025. Migration is still recommended.

How long do ESU (Extended Security Updates) last?

Up to 3 years for enterprise/education (paid, annual). A 1-year option exists for consumers.

Is bypassing the prerequisites (Rufus/registry) recommended?

No, not in a business environment. For personal use, at best, it is a temporary workaround , with a risk of losing support and updates.