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OCTOber 2025:
OCTOber 2025:
To upgrade, or not to upgrade? That is the question.
To upgrade, or not to upgrade? That is the question.
During September’s Share & Learn, some of us took time to discuss the pros and cons of upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Whether you were in attendance or not, lets review the situation.
Microsoft will stop providing regular security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Without those updates, your computer will be more vulnerable to hackers and viruses.
You have four (4) main choices:
You have four (4) main choices:
Upgrade to Windows 11 — If your PC meets Microsoft’s minimum requirements (including a TPM* 2.0 chip and other checks) you can move to Windows 11 and keep receiving updates.
Use Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) for one more year — Microsoft offers an ESU program that gives Windows 10 security updates for an extra year; it can be free if you sign in with a Microsoft account, or you can pay ($30 or 1,000 Microsoft reward points) if you prefer not to sign in.
Buy a new Windows 11 PC — Purchasing a new computer that comes with Windows 11 avoids compatibility headaches; prices can range from under $1,000 to higher for fancier models.
Switch to a different operating system (Linux or ChromeOS) — You can replace Windows with a Linux distribution (some look and behave similarly to Windows) or use a ChromeOS system; this works well for basic tasks like email and web browsing (Susan offers a course through Kitchener Tech Connects if you’re interested in this latter option).
*TPM = Trusted Platform Module: a special chip in a Windows computer that helps keep your data secure by storing encryption keys and ensuring that the system hasn't been tampered with. It acts like a security guard for your computer, protecting sensitive information and verifying the integrity of the system.
What each option means and how hard it is
What each option means and how hard it is
Upgrade to Windows 11
What it does: installs the newer Windows and keeps updates coming.
How hard: medium. You must check your PC's specifications and TPM setting and then follow upgrade steps or get help from a friend or a technician.
Join the ESU program (stay on Windows 10 for 1 more year)
What it does: gives you security updates for an extra year so your computer stays safer while you make a longer-term plan.
How hard: easy to medium. Microsoft lets you sign in with a Microsoft account to get it for free, or pay a small fee if you prefer not to sign in.
Buy a new PC with Windows 11
What it does: gives you a fresh computer that will be supported for years and likely run faster and better battery life.
How hard: easy to buy, moderate to move your files; a store employee, family member, or local service can transfer important files and set up email for you.
Replace Windows with Linux or ChromeOS on your existing computer
What it does: removes Windows and installs a different operating system that is often free and can keep your machine usable and secure.
How hard: medium to hard. It takes some learning and setup. You will need a simple USB thumb drive to install it and someone to help if you do not want to learn the steps.
Simple step-by-step next actions recommended
Simple step-by-step next actions recommended
Back up your important files now. Copy photos, documents, and emails to an external USB drive or to cloud storage so nothing is lost.
Check if your PC can run Windows 11. Open Settings > System > About, note the processor and RAM, and check for TPM 2.0 or ask someone to check for you.
Decide fast but calmly. If you want no fuss and your PC supports it, upgrade to Windows 11. If your PC does not support it and you need more time, sign up for the ESU option now.
Ask for help if any step feels difficult. A trusted family member, friend, or a local computer shop can do the upgrade, ESU sign-in, or transfer files for you.
Simple safety tips if you choose to stay on Windows 10 without changes
Simple safety tips if you choose to stay on Windows 10 without changes
Keep regular backups of photos and documents.
Continue using an up-to-date web browser and email cautiously; do not open suspicious attachments.
Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
Consider limiting web activity that involves banking or sensitive personal information on that PC until it’s upgraded or covered by the ESU option.
Closing, in one sentence
Closing, in one sentence
If you want the least hassle and a long-term solution, check if your PC can run Windows 11 and upgrade if it can; if not, sign up for Microsoft’s one-year ESU while you plan to buy a new PC or move to a different operating system
Sources:
https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-10/windows-10-eol-october-14-faq-esu
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