End of an Era:

Windows 10 End of Life on 10/14/2025

Windows 10 reaches its “End of Life” on October 14, 2025.  Computers with Windows 10 installed will continue to work;  however, Microsoft will not provide updates or technical support after the 14th. The lack of updates and support increases the risk of PCs running Windows 10 being exposed to a virus or malware as time goes on.

NGT recommends upgrading your operating system to a supported version like Windows 11.  Supported OS versions receive routine security updates.  If your PC is connected to the internet, using supported and up-to-date software becomes essential for the security of your devices.  Even for those who do not have their PC connected to the internet, upgrading to supported software allows access to Microsoft technical support.

There are several options to upgrading to a supported operating system:

• Install Windows 11 onto your current PC
• Get a new PC that supports Windows 11
• Use Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program

If your PC meets the minimum specifications, it can be upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for free from Windows Update on your device.  This option will keep all the files on your computer intact after the upgrade.

The other option would be to buy a new computer that will support Windows 11.  Files that you want to keep would need to be transferred to the new device.  These two options are the most secure and NGT’s recommended options for most people.

For those who do not want to upgrade or replace their device at the moment, the third option is to enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program.  This option lets you enroll your Windows 10 computers for a limited time to receive periodic security updates from Microsoft. 

Microsoft will not reach out to you about using the ESU program.  This is an option you can enroll in from Windows Update on your device if it meets the specifications.  Do not fall for popups or scam calls that claim you need to pay them to extend your use of Windows 10.  After the ESU program has finished (1 year for consumers or up to 3 years for commercial use), upgrading or replacing your PC will be the only options.

As always, NGT is here to help! 
Contact ngthelp.com with questions.

For information from Microsoft about Windows 10 End of Life, see Microsoft Support article:
Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025