How to save your older PC when Windows 10 hits end of life

This fall, Microsoft is pulling the plug on Windows 10. Here's how to keep your PC alive when Microsoft stops releasing updates for the operating system.

- ANDERS LUNDBERG

After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer release any regular updates to Windows ☐ 10. The company may make exceptions if a really serious security flaw is discovered-this has happened with older, discontinued versions like Windows XP and Windows 7.

Many people who are running Windows 10 and haven't updated to Windows 11 are doing so because their computer doesn't support the greatly increased system requirements. So what can you do if you have one of these millions of computers? If your computer has no other faults and is not too slow for your needs, buying a new one just to get system updates probably seems unnecessary.

OPTION 0: POSTPONE THE DECISION-PAY FOR EXTENDED SUPPORT

If you don't have the time or energy to organize a longer-term solution and don't mind paying a little extra, you can choose to take advantage of Microsoft's extended support offer. The company announced last autumn (fave.co/3NWEOJG) that it would be offering a year of continued security updates for around $30, but that's it.

Buying yourself a year's grace may make sense, especially if you really want to get a new computer with Windows 11 but would prefer waiting until next year.

OPTION 1: FORCE WINDOWS 11 ONTO YOUR OLD COMPUTER

Perhaps the easiest way to continue using an older computer that doesn't officially meet the system requirements for Windows 11 is to ignore the system requirements. Microsoft doesn't recommend that, of course, and in a way it's right. The TPM requirement tied to newer systems has to do with the ability to store private encryption keys and other secrets in a truly secure way.