Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10 as of October 14, 2025, ceasing feature updates and technical assistance for the operating system. However, Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users who are yet to upgrade to Windows 11.
Windows 10 End of Support and ESU Details
The ESU program was announced on October 31, 2024, and provides critical security updates through October 13, 2026, for those who continue to use Windows 10. The company states that users can enroll in the ESU program by navigating to Settings, then Update & Security, followed by Windows Update, and clicking the 'Enroll now' link under the notification 'Windows 10 support ends in October 2025.' Options for enrollment include paying a $30 fee, syncing to Microsoft OneDrive, or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Support for Windows 10 ended on 2025-10-14.
- ESU program announced on 2024-10-31 offers security updates until 2026-10-13.
- Enrollment in the ESU program is free in the European Economic Area.
- Requirements for Windows 11 include a 1 GHz processor, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, and TPM 2.0 support.
Requirements and Alternatives for Upgrading
To upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, Microsoft specifies that a PC must have a 1 GHz processor with at least two cores on a 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC), 4 GB or more memory, 64 GB or more disk space, DirectX 12-compatible graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver, TPM 2.0 support, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability, and a display of at least 9 inches in high definition.
For users whose computers do not meet these requirements, CNET's Geoff Morrison suggests alternative methods for upgrading to Windows 11. Meanwhile, maintaining good security practices and enrolling in the ESU program are recommended for those who choose to keep using Windows 10.
