Your Windows 10 PC Will Lose Security Updates Soon — Here's What to Do Before It's Too Late

1. Check if your computer can actually upgrade

Before exploring alternatives, verify whether your computer truly can't run Windows 11. Go to Start, then Settings, select "Update & Security," and click "Windows Update" to see if an upgrade option appears.

You can also review Microsoft's official Windows 11 system requirements to confirm compatibility. The most common barriers are insufficient RAM, storage space, or an older processor that doesn't meet the minimum specifications.

If your computer barely misses the requirements, sometimes a simple hardware upgrade like adding more RAM can make Windows 11 possible without replacing the entire system.

2. Pay for extended security updates

Microsoft has made enrolling in Extended Security Update (ESU) easier with a recent free update. If you've installed update KB5063709, you'll find an "Enroll in Extended Support Updates" option in Windows Update settings that extends protection through October 2026.

The program offers two payment methods: spend 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points for local accounts (non-refundable) or pay $30 to cover up to 10 PCs on one Microsoft account. This provides critical security updates but no new features, bug fixes, or technical support.

The ESU program gives you an extra year beyond the October 2025 deadline to plan your next steps while maintaining basic security protection on your current hardware.

3. Switch to a different operating system

Linux distributions offer free, secure alternatives that can breathe new life into older computers. Popular options include Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and Zorin OS, each designed to be user-friendly for Windows refugees.

ChromeOS Flex provides another option, offering the familiar Chrome browser-based experience found on Chromebooks but designed to run on older Windows hardware. Check Google's certified models list to see if your computer is compatible.

While switching operating systems requires a learning curve, Linux or ChromeOS Flex can actually run just as well (if not faster) on older hardware.

4. Use cloud-based Windows 11

Microsoft 365 subscribers can access Windows 11 through cloud services like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop, essentially running the new operating system remotely on Microsoft's servers while using your old computer as a display.

This solution lets you access Windows 11 features and security updates without meeting the hardware requirements locally. However, it requires a reliable internet connection and ongoing subscription costs.

Microsoft has also confirmed that Microsoft 365 applications will continue receiving security updates on Windows 10 devices for three additional years, providing some protection for users who primarily work within Microsoft's cloud ecosystem.

5. When buying a new computer makes sense

If your current computer is already showing signs of age: slow performance, frequent crashes, or hardware failures, the Windows 10 support deadline might be the perfect excuse to upgrade.

Modern computers come with Windows 11 pre-installed and often include improved performance, better security features, and longer battery life. Microsoft's recent Surface laptops and other manufacturers offer options across various price ranges.

While this is the most expensive option upfront, it also provides the most comprehensive solution with full Windows 11 features, ongoing support, and modern hardware that will last for years to come.

The key is weighing the cost against your computer usage needs and how much longer you realistically want to keep your current device running.