Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, leaving millions of users with tough decisions. Transitioning to Windows 11 could require a new laptop, as older devices may not meet the system requirements. Here’s what you need to know about the changes and their potential costs.
By Joseph Gutierrez
Windows 10’s Era Ends
Windows 10, once the most widely used operating system, will no longer receive updates, including critical security patches, after October 14, 2025. This marks the culmination of Microsoft’s phased discontinuation, which began with halting sales in early 2023 and ceasing version updates shortly after. As of late 2024, Windows 10 was still installed on 62.73% of computers globally, compared to Windows 11’s 34.1%, according to Statcounter. The end of Windows 10 support will push millions of users toward adopting Windows 11 or exploring alternatives.
Why Many Laptops Can’t Run Windows 11
Windows 11 introduces advanced features like artificial intelligence integration, demanding higher hardware performance. This has left many older laptops and PCs incompatible with the upgrade, forcing users to consider purchasing new devices. Microsoft’s new Copilot+-PC category offers systems specifically optimized for AI capabilities, boasting up to five times the speed of five-year-old PCs. However, the high cost of these devices, starting at $1,200, poses a financial challenge for many users.
Extended Security Updates: An Alternative
For those unwilling or unable to upgrade immediately, Microsoft offers the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10. Available for organizations and individuals, this program ensures continued access to security patches after the official end-of-support date. Participation requires a minimum of Windows 10 Version 22H2 and excludes Home editions. Individual users can subscribe for $30 annually, providing a temporary solution for maintaining cybersecurity while planning a hardware upgrade.
Preparing for the Future
Microsoft’s push for modern devices reflects its commitment to integrating advanced technologies like AI into everyday computing. As a result, users must weigh the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 against the financial burden of purchasing new hardware. For those who delay, ESU offers a bridge, but it’s a stopgap measure rather than a long-term solution.
The end of Windows 10 marks a pivotal moment for millions of users, requiring significant adjustments to hardware and software. While Microsoft’s new AI-optimized systems promise enhanced performance, their high costs may be a barrier for many. Alternatives like the ESU program provide a temporary reprieve, but transitioning to modern systems is inevitable for long-term compatibility and security.
Based on content from www.techbook.de and own research.