In 2025, would you be willing to pay to continue using Windows 10? These are all the possible solutions
As we approach the end of support for Windows 10, millions of users face a crossroads: upgrade to Windows 11, change hardware, or pay for extended support.
However, starting in October 2025, Microsoft will stop releasing updates for this operating system, which could expose computers to security risks.
If you still don't think about switching to Windows 11 and want to stay with 10 after support ends, be very careful when doing online banking or any operation that requires confidential personal data.
Options for Windows 10 users
With support coming to an end, there are three main solutions GBNews recommends. If your PC meets the minimum requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 at no additional cost.
To check for compatibility, use tools like PC Health Check or third-party utilities. If the update is supported, updating is simple: just go to Settings, Update & Security, and Windows Update.
However, many computers do not meet the upgrade requirements, such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. While there are ways to install it on unsupported computers, it can cause problems with future updates.
If you decide to upgrade, Windows 11 offers improved features like Copilot, an AI assistant, and a more modern design with rounded corners and customizable UI elements.
On the other hand, if your PC isn’t compatible, it might be time to buy a new one with Windows 11 preinstalled. While this option can be expensive, it ensures a smoother transition and access to the latest features. Plus, new devices come with advanced security features and greater energy efficiency, which may justify the investment.
But if you prefer to continue using Windows 10, Microsoft will offer its Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, extending support for up to three more years. This service has an annual cost, which increases over time and can get expensive if you have multiple devices.
While exact consumer pricing has yet to be revealed, businesses could charge $59.14 for the first year, $118.27 for the second year, and $236.51 for the third year per device.
Using Windows 10 after October 2025 could leave your PC vulnerable to viruses and malware, as it won’t receive security patches. Not only does this put your personal data at risk, it can also affect your PC’s performance and compatibility with newer software.
Microsoft warns that the risk of cyber attacks will increase, and the flaws discovered in the system will not be fixed. Therefore, updating your system is essential to protect your information and ensure optimal performance.
If none of the above options convince you, you can explore alternatives like ChromeOS Flex, a free solution from Google that turns your PC into a cloud-based device. Additionally, third-party services like 0patch provide affordable security updates for Windows 10, although they aren’t official solutions.