Windows 10 has reached the end of Support

• By SMSPool Admin
• October 23, 2025
• Guides

Windows 10 has officially reached end of support as of 14th October 2025. Your PC will continue to function, however Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, driver updates or technical support. This will leave your system increasingly vulnerable to malware, exploits and cyber threats as new vulnerabilities are discovered and remain unpatched.

The good news is that you have several options, each suited to different needs and situations.

This guide walks you through each choice so you can make an informed decision.

Understanding the problem with Windows 10 Support being ended

It's important to understand that Windows 10 doesn't stop working on 14th October 2025. Your computer will continue to run normally. However, you will lose critical security updates:

• No security updates: New vulnerabilities discovered after 14th October 2025 will never be fixed
• No driver updates: Hardware manufacturers will stop releasing Windows 10 drivers, causing compatibility issues with printers, graphics cards, and other peripherals
• No technical support: Microsoft will not help troubleshoot problems
• Increased malware risk: Your system is more vulnerable to cyber criminals due to the lack of security updates

For as long as you remain on Windows 10 after 14th October 2025, the security risk grows. Acting now is essential to maintain security.

The E-Waste Problem

It's worth acknowledging that Windows 10's end of support creates a significant environmental issue. Around 240-400 million perfectly functional computers cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware requirements like TPM 2.0. Microsoft's strict requirements have left millions of users facing an uncomfortable choice: either buy new hardware they don't need or get rid of their computers entirely.

This situation generates enormous amounts of electronic waste. Computers that run fine on Windows 10 end up in landfills or recycling centres, wasting resources and causing environmental damage. The manufacturing of replacement hardware consumes energy and raw materials, all because of a software policy rather than a genuine hardware failure.

The good news is that there are several options you can take rather than just purchasing a new device. One option would be to use Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU), which extends Windows 10's support for 1 year for consumers. Another option is Linux Mint, which we will discuss later. It runs excellently on older hardware, potentially giving your computer years of additional productive life instead of contributing to e-waste by purchasing another device.

Choosing to switch to Linux Mint isn't just about privacy and security; it's also an environmentally conscious decision that keeps older hardware functional and out of landfills. Why waste perfectly good hardware?

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (Free for Most Users)

If your hardware meets Windows 11 requirements, upgrading is the most straightforward path and completely free for Windows 10 users.

System Requirements

Windows 11 requires:

• TPM 2.0: Trusted Platform Module for enhanced security
• Secure Boot: UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability
• Compatible CPU: 8th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer (with some exceptions)
• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
• Storage: 64 GB SSD as a minimum

To check if your PC is suitable, download and run Microsoft's PC Health check tool from Microsoft's website. This will give you the most accurate assessment of your system's compatibility.

Benefits of Windows 11

• Ongoing security updates and support through October 2031
• Modern interface with Snap Layouts, virtual desktops and improved multitasking
• Better gaming and DirectStorage support
• Improved touchscreen and gesture controls
• Enhanced integration with Microsoft ecosystem services

Privacy issues with Windows

Windows 11 collects diagnostic data by default, including usage patterns, browsing history, and system information. However, this is distinguishable from Windows 10 through clearer "required" versus "optional" telemetry categories. You can turn off optional telemetry in Settings > Privacy & Security, although some users seeking maximum privacy may prefer alternatives. Linux Mint doesn't collect any telemetry, making it much more privacy-focused. While macOS does collect some analytics data, it uses differential privacy techniques to anonymize information before collection. It provides more granular user controls than Windows, making it generally more privacy-focused by default.

What to Do Before Upgrading:

1. Run PC Health Check to confirm compatibility with Windows 11
2. Back up all important files to an external drive or an encrypted cloud service such as ProtonDrive, or Tresorit
3. Download the latest drivers from your motherboard and device manufacturers' websites
4. Note down your product keys for software licenses
5. Check that your critical applications are Windows 11 compatible

Upgrading Step-by-Step

You can either upgrade in place or perform a clean install:

• In place upgrade: This is easier preserving your files and settings, but may carry over Windows 10 issues
• Clean install: This removes everything and starts a fresh, often resulting in better performance, but requires more technical knowledge

Option 2: Extended Security Updates (ESU)

If your hardware doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements or you're not ready to upgrade, Microsoft's ESU program provides security updates. However, there are important differences between consumer and commercial options.

Consumer ESU (Individual Users)

Duration: One year only (Until 13 October 2026) - this is NOT renewable

UK Enrolment Options:

• Free if you sync your PC Settings to OneDrive (Not end-to-end encrypted meaning Microsoft can see your data)
• 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
• One-time purchase of $30 USD (plus applicable tax)

Coverage: One license covers up to 10 devices

Commercial ESU (Businesses)

Duration: Up to three years available (2026, 2027, 2028)

Pricing:

• Year 1: �58 per device
• Year 2: Approximately �116 per device (doubles)
• Year 3: Approximately �232 per device (doubles again)
• Non-profits and education: �0.90 per device for Year 1

For EU/EEA Residents

EU/EEA residents qualify for completely free consumer ESU for one year thanks to EU Digital Markets Act regulations (DMA), no payment is required.

ESU Limitations

Crucially, ESU provides only critical security updates. You will receive:

• Security fixes for known vulnerabilities
• No new features or improvements
• No non-critical bugfixes
• No new driver releases

ESU is a holding strategy and is not a long-term solution. You're buying time to plan your transition to Windows 11 or another operating system.

Option 3: Switch to Linux Mint

If you're willing to learn a new operating system, Linux Mint offers a great alternative with strong security, privacy, and performance characteristics, especially on older hardware. This option is particularly valuable for keeping older machines out of the e-waste stream.

Why Linux?

Linux is open-source. This means that the entire codebase is publicly available for inspection. This transparency makes hidden data collection virtually impossible, unlike proprietary systems. Combined with its stability and speed, Linux represents a fundamentally different approach to computing. It's also extremely efficient, allowing older hardware to remain secure & productive instead of becoming obsolete.

What is Linux Mint?

Linux Mint is specifically designed for users transitioning from Windows. It features:

• Cinnamon Desktop: Resembles Windows 10's interface with taskbar, start menu and system tray
• No telemetry: Unlike Windows, Linux Mint collects minimal data and respects your privacy by default
• Excellent performance: Runs smoothly on older hardware (2GB RAM minimum, 4GB recommended)
• Free software: Thousands of applications available through Software Manager, most free
• Long-term support: Linux Mint 22 receives updates through 2029
• Strong community: Extensive documentation and active forums for troubleshooting

Desktop Environments

Linux Mint comes in three flavours:

• Cinnamon: Most modern and Windows-like (recommended for Windows users)
• MATE: Traditional desktop environment, lighter on resources
• Xfce: Ultra-lightweight, best for older computers

Most users switching from Windows should choose the Cinnamon version.

Advanced Options: QubesOS and SecureBlue

For users with serious security concerns, two other distributions deserve a mention:

QubesOS: Isolates each application in its own virtual environment. If one application is compromised, the breach cannot spread to other applications or your system. Edward Snowden, the privacy and security expert, uses, and recommends QubesOS as the best operating system available for serious security needs. This approach sacrifices some convenience for exceptional security.

SecureBlue: Built on Fedora Atomic with hardened security by default, including SELinux enforcement, hardened memory allocation and disabled Bluetooth discovery. It balances robust security with practical usability for everyday tasks. It's more experimental than Linux Mint and requires more technical knowledge.

Getting Started with Linux Mint

Step 1: Try Before Installing

Download Linux Mint's ISO file and create a bootable USB using tools like Etcher. Boot your computer from the USB and select "Live Session" to explore Linux Mint without modifying your hard drive. This lets you test compatibility with your hardware and see if you're comfortable with the environment before committing.

Step 2: Back Up Your Data

Copy all important documents, photos, videos, and other personal files to an external drive or cloud service. You will need this data after installing Linux Mint.

Step 3: Install Linux Mint

During installation, you can:

• Dual-boot: Keep Windows 10 alongside Linux Mint on separate partitions (requires more storage)
• Replace Windows entirely: Format your drive and install Linux Mint exclusively

You can install Linux Mint here

Follow the installer prompts to select your language, time zone, keyboard layout and create your user account.

Step 4: Complete Initial Setup

After installation:

1. Open Update Manager and apply all available security updates
2. Use Driver Manager to install proprietary graphics drivers (NVIDIA, AMD) or Wi-Fi drivers if needed
3. Verify that your printer, scanner, and other peripherals work correctly

Essential Applications to Install

Linux Mint's Software Manager is like an app store, making it straightforward to find and install applications:

Application	Purpose	Notes
LibreOffice	Office suite (Word/Excel alternative)	Excellent Microsoft Office compatibility
Brave or LibreWolf	Web browser	Privacy-focused alternatives to Chrome/Edge
Thunderbird or Betterbird	Email client	Full-featured open-source email management
VLC	Media player	Plays virtually any audio/video format
GIMP	Image editor	Powerful alternative to Photoshop

Understanding Backup Tools

Linux Mint offers two important backup tools for different purposes:

Timeshift: Creates system snapshots, which are complete backups of your operating system configuration, installed applications and system settings. Use Timeshift to quickly recover if you misconfigure your system or want to revert to a previous state. It works similarly to Windows System Restore.

Deja Dup: Backs up your personal files and documents, including photos, videos, spreadsheets, emails, and other user data. This protects against accidental deletion or drive failure. Use Deja Dup alongside encrypted cloud services for maximum protection against file loss.

Best practice: Enable both tools. Timeshift saves you if you break the system. Deja Dup ensures your irreplaceable personal files are always safe.

Comparing Your Options

Factor	Windows 11	ESU Windows 10	Linux Mint
Cost	Free upgrade; future updates included	�30/year (UK); 1-3 years only	Free forever
Security	Very good; regular updates	Critical patches only; time-limited	Very good; regular updates; no telemetry
Learning curve	None; familiar interface	None; familiar interface	Moderate; Windows-like but different
Software compatibility	Excellent; most applications work	Excellent; most applications work	Good; many Windows apps available or have Linux alternatives
Privacy	Improved controls but still does a lot of data collection	Same as Windows 10	Superior; minimal data collection by design
Performance	Modern but more resource-intensive	Similar to current	Often faster, especially on older hardware
Hardware lifespan	Requires newer hardware	Keeps current hardware	Extends older hardware life significantly
Environmental impact	Requires new hardware for many users	None	None
Recommended for	Most users with compatible hardware	A temporary solution to buy time	Privacy-conscious users; older hardware; environmentally aware users

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Before Making Any Changes:

• Decide which path fits your situation and hardware
• Back up all important files immediately
• Don't rush, you have time to plan properly

If Upgrading to Windows 11:

• Check hardware compatibility first with PC Health Check
• Download latest drivers before upgrading
• Allow 1-2 hours for the upgrade process
• Keep your Windows 10 backup for the first few days

If Switching to Linux Mint:

• Verify that critical printers, scanners, and peripherals have Linux drivers (check manufacturer websites)
• Check if your essential applications are available on Linux using sites like AlternativeTo
• Join Linux Mint's community forums, they have active users are ready to help
• Don't attempt complex system administration tasks in your first week, just stick to basics

General Best Practices:

• Never bypass Windows 11's TPM, Secure Boot or CPU requirements using unofficial methods. This removes security protections, voids support and prevents security updates.
• Schedule your transition during a low-stress time when you won't be desperately dependent on your computer
• Test your choice in a virtual machine first if you're uncertain
• Keep your backup copies for at least one month after transitioning

Common Questions Answered

Q: Will my computer still work on 14th October 2025 if I stay on Windows 10? Yes, it will, but you'll be vulnerable. Each new malware variant and security risk discovered after 14th October 2025 will threaten your system without available patches.

Q: Is Windows 11 upgrade truly free? Yes it will, it's completely free for Windows 10 users. Microsoft does not charge for the upgrade.

Q: Can I use Linux Mint if I'm not technical? You absolutely can. Linux Mint is specifically designed for non-technical users transitioning from Windows. The interface is has been made very familiar for that reason.

Q: Will my existing software work on Linux Mint? Most common software has Linux equivalents will, but Professional software (Adobe, CAD programs) typically don't work natively. Make sure you check AlternativeTo for your specific applications.

Q: How long until Windows 11 reaches end of support? We cannot know for definite however it's usually 9 years.

Q: Isn't Microsoft's requirement for newer hardware just creating e-waste? Yes it is, and this is a major concern. Millions of perfectly functional computers cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements. Switching to Linux Mint is an cost effective & environmentally responsible way to extend your hardware's life while maintaining security and functionality.

Your Next Steps

This Week:

1. Decide which option suits your situation
2. Back up all important files now
3. If considering Windows 11, run PC Health Check to confirm compatibility

If Upgrading to Windows 11:

1. Download latest drivers from your manufacturer
2. Download Windows 11 installation media
3. Allow time for the upgrade

If Considering Linux Mint:

1. Download Linux Mint and create a bootable USB
2. Boot into Live Session and test it
3. Review Linux Mint's documentation
4. Plan your installation approach

If Using ESU:

1. Understand this is temporary, plan your transition during Year 1
2. Prioritise upgrading to Windows 11 or switching to Linux Mint

Windows 10's end of support marks an important inflection point. You have three viable paths forward and each have distinct advantages. Windows 11 keeps you in the familiar Microsoft ecosystem with modern features and strong security. It has extended Security Updates providing a short-term holding pattern if your hardware isn't ready.

Linux Mint offers an alternative path with superior privacy. It has lower system requirements and has the environmental benefit of extending your hardware's life instead of contributing to the e-waste problem.

The key is acting before you become a target. Evaluate your hardware, consider your needs and make your transition plan this week. Waiting until malware infects your system will be far costlier than spending an hour now preparing your move.

Whichever path you choose, you're moving to a more secure future. The worst decision is staying on Windows 10 without a plan.

 

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