As a reminder, Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025. At this point technical assistance, feature updates and security updates will no longer be provided. If you have devices running Windows 10, we recommend upgrading them to Windows 11- a more current, in-service, and supported Windows release. If devices do not meet the technical requirements to run on Windows 11, we recommend that you purchase the Extended Security Update (ESU) program or replace the device with one that supports Windows 11.
What are my options for staying supported on a Windows operating system?
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Installing Windows 11 on your current PC - If your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 and is eligible to upgrade directly to Windows 11, you might have already received a notification about upgrading. To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
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New PC with Windows 11 - If your PC is not eligible, or if you want a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed, you might want to start by exploring the latest Windows 11 PCs. This tool will help you find the right PC based on your unique needs.
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Extended Security Updates (ESU) program - If you need more time before moving to a Copilot+ PC or other new Windows 11 device, a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30 USD will help protect your Windows 10 device. More information about Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 is available in the frequently asked questions section of the End of support for Windows page. If you're an IT pro, see Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10.
After October 14, 2025, computers running Windows 10 will still function, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:
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Technical support of any issue
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Software updates
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Security updates or fixes
While you could continue to use a PC running Windows 10, without continued software and security updates, your PC will be at a greater risk for viruses and malware. After this date, we recommend upgrading to a version of Windows that is still supported. A new device that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and a great experience.
No. Support for Windows 10 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. However, after October 14, 2025, your computer running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates. In addition, Microsoft customer service will no longer be available to provide Windows 10 technical support.
Microsoft has a great selection of Surface with Windows 11 PCs. To learn more about Surface PCs with Windows 11 you can explore all Surface devices, you can check out great Surface deals and, if you are a small business owner find the right Surface with Windows 11 PC for your business. This tool can help you find the right PC based on your unique needs.
It’s free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running Windows 10, version 22H2 and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Note that in areas where the internet is metered, ISP fees may apply.
It’s easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using Windows Backup. Windows Backup helps you save and transfer your files, photos, settings, apps, and log in credentials so you can instantly feel at home on your new computer.
Support for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, when Windows 10 reaches end of support. Although these applications will continue to run on Windows 10, we strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid performance and reliability issues with using those apps over time.
To learn more, see What Windows end of support means for Office and Microsoft 365.
On October 14, 2025, support for non-subscription versions of Office will be affected in two ways:
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Support for Office 2016 and Office 2019 will end, across all operating systems.
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Office 2024 and Office 2021 (including Office LTSC versions) will continue to run on Windows 10 but will no longer be supported.
To maintain a supported configuration, we recommend that you upgrade your device to Windows 11 and consider subscribing to Microsoft 365. If you are running Office 2021, Office LTSC 2021, Office 2024, or Office LTSC 2024, you can also migrate that license to a new Windows 11 device. As you consider your options, please note that support for Office 2021 and Office LTSC 2021 will end one year later, in October 2026.
To learn more, see What Windows end of support means for Office and Microsoft 365.
When you are ready to purchase a new Windows 11 PC, we encourage you to leverage trade-in and recycling programs available from many of our Windows ecosystem partners including numerous retailers and PC manufacturers.
If you have an eligible device, you can also take advantage of the Microsoft trade-in program to securely and responsibly recycle your PC—and get some extra cash. This resource can help you learn the trade-in value of your used device. You can also return and recycle your device responsibly with our end-of-life management and recycling initiatives.
