Windows 10 support ends October 14, 2025, leaving devices vulnerable without updates. Upgrade to Windows 11 for free with our step-by-step guide. Learn eligibility, methods, and why acting now is crucial to stay secure.
New Delhi| October 11, 2025 | The Interview Times—In just three days, on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10, marking the end of an era for an operating system that has powered over a billion devices since its 2015 debut. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, leaving users vulnerable to cyberthreats and compatibility issues.
For those with compatible hardware, Microsoft offers a free upgrade to Windows 11, providing a secure and modern alternative. This article outlines the implications of the end-of-support deadline and provides a clear, step-by-step guide to transitioning to Windows 11 at no cost.
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What Does End of Support Mean?
The end of support (EOS) for Windows 10 means Microsoft will stop providing free updates, including critical security patches, to all editions (Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education). While devices will continue to function, they will become increasingly susceptible to malware, performance slowdowns, and software incompatibilities over time.
Microsoft has emphasized that upgrading to Windows 11 is the best way to ensure ongoing security and access to new features, such as AI-driven tools like Copilot and improved system performance.
For businesses and individuals unable to upgrade immediately, Microsoft offers a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides critical security patches for up to three additional years, until October 2028. Pricing details are available through Microsoft’s enterprise channels, but the ESU program is not a substitute for a full upgrade. Microsoft strongly recommends transitioning to Windows 11 to stay aligned with modern computing standards.
Why Upgrade to Windows 11?
Windows 11, first released in October 2021, introduces a sleek, modern interface with a centered Start menu, enhanced multitasking features, and robust security improvements. The latest version, 25H2, includes optimizations for performance and new AI capabilities, making it a compelling upgrade for eligible users.
Best of all, the upgrade is free for Windows 10 devices that meet Microsoft’s hardware requirements, with no announced expiration date for this offer.
However, not all PCs are eligible. Windows 11 requires a 64-bit processor (8th-generation Intel or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer), 4GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and Secure Boot capability.
These requirements have sparked concern, as older hardware—particularly devices with 7th-generation Intel processors or earlier—may not qualify, potentially requiring users to purchase new devices.
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How to Upgrade to Windows 11 for Free
If your PC meets the minimum requirements, upgrading to Windows 11 is straightforward and preserves your files, apps, and most settings. Microsoft provides three primary methods to perform the upgrade, each suited to different needs. Before starting, back up important data to an external drive or cloud service like OneDrive to avoid potential data loss.
Step 1: Verify Compatibility
Download the PC Health Check app from Microsoft’s official Windows 11 download page (www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11). This tool scans your device to confirm it meets the hardware requirements. If your PC is ineligible, Microsoft recommends purchasing a new Windows 11-compatible device.
Attempting unofficial workarounds to bypass hardware checks may lead to instability or lack of support and is not advised.
Step 2: Choose Your Upgrade Method
Here are the three official methods to upgrade, all free for eligible devices:
- Windows Update (Recommended)
- Steps: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update on your Windows 10 PC. Click Check for updates. If your device is eligible, you’ll see an option to Download and install Windows 11. Follow the prompts to complete the process.
- Best For: Users seeking a seamless, automatic upgrade with minimal effort.
- Requirements: Windows 10 version 2004 or later and at least 9GB of free disk space.
- Windows 11 Installation Assistant
- Steps: Visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page and download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Run the executable file and follow the on-screen instructions to upgrade.
- Best For: Users with metered connections or those preferring a guided process.
- Requirements: Compatible hardware and sufficient storage.
- Media Creation Tool
- Steps: Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website. Use it to create a bootable USB drive or ISO file. Boot from the USB or mount the ISO to start the installation, choosing to keep files and apps or perform a clean install.
- Best For: Offline upgrades, clean installations, or upgrading multiple PCs.
- Requirements: A USB drive (8GB or larger) and a compatible PC.
Step 3: Post-Upgrade Setup
After upgrading, sign in with a Microsoft account to activate Windows 11 and ensure a smooth transition. Check for additional updates via Settings > Windows Update to install the latest drivers and patches.
Familiarize yourself with Windows 11’s new interface, including the redesigned Start menu and taskbar, to maximize productivity.
Challenges and Considerations
For users with incompatible hardware, the end of Windows 10 support poses a dilemma. Microsoft estimates that a significant portion of the 1.4 billion Windows devices in use may not meet Windows 11’s requirements, potentially leading to increased electronic waste as users replace outdated PCs. To mitigate this, Microsoft has expanded recycling programs and encourages users to check trade-in options with authorized retailers.
For businesses, the stakes are higher. Large organizations with fleets of Windows 10 devices face costly upgrades or ESU subscriptions. Microsoft advises IT administrators to begin compatibility testing and deployment planning immediately to avoid disruptions.
Act Now to Stay Secure
With the October 14 deadline looming, Windows 10 users must act swiftly. Upgrading to Windows 11 offers the most cost-effective and future-proof solution for eligible devices, ensuring continued security and access to cutting-edge features. For those unable to upgrade, exploring ESU options or investing in new hardware is critical to maintaining a secure computing environment.
For detailed guidance, visit Microsoft’s official Windows 11 support page at www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11 or contact Microsoft Support directly. Stay ahead of the curve and make the switch before it’s too late.