After the October 14, 2025 end‐of‐support date, Windows 10 will still run — but it will no longer receive updates, leaving your PC vulnerable. To stay secure and supported, you should move to Windows 11 now if your PC meets the requirements; if not, take steps to either upgrade your hardware, use Extended Security Updates, or replace the PC.
Why This Matters
- Security risks grow⚠️
Unpatched vulnerabilities → more malware, phishing, and ransomware threats.
- Compatibility Issues❌
Future apps, drivers, and devices won’t support Windows 10.
- Compliance Failures🏢
Businesses may breach IT security and insurance policies if they run unsupported systems.
- Performance gap💻
Windows 11 offers faster performance, modern security features, and AI tools like Microsoft Copilot.
Primary Risks of Staying on Windows 10
Cybersecurity threats: Hackers actively target unsupported systems.
Outdated software: Productivity apps (like Microsoft 365) may stop working properly.
Device failures: Printers, scanners, and peripherals may lose driver support.
No official help: Without Microsoft support, troubleshooting issues becomes more expensive.
Compliance penalties: For businesses, unsupported OS can void cybersecurity insurance or breach data protection rules.
Feature | Windows 10 (after Oct 2025) | Windows 11 |
|---|---|---|
Security Updates | ❌ None | ✅ Ongoing |
Compatibility | ⚠️ Declines over time | ✅ Active |
Microsoft Support
| ❌ Ended | ✅ Available
|
Performance | ⚠️ Older design | ✅ Faster + AI features |
Key Terms & Definitions (to avoid confusion)
1. End of Support
- The date Microsoft stops releasing security fixes and patches for Windows 10.
2. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0
- A security chip or firmware module; one of Windows 11’s minimum requirements.
3. Secure Boot
- A firmware feature (in UEFI) that helps ensure only trusted software loads when the computer boots.
4. ESU (Extended Security Updates)
- A Microsoft program for paid or licensed users that offers critical security patches after end of support.
5. System Image / Backup
- Full copy of your system (OS, apps, settings) to restore in case something goes wrong.
Step-by-Step Guide: Moving from Windows 10 → Windows 11
Here’s what to do—use this checklist.
Step | What to Do | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
1. Check PC compatibility | Run Microsoft’s PC Health Check or go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update to see if an upgrade to Windows 11 is offered. Ensure your CPU is supported, TPM 2.0 is enabled, Secure Boot is on, enough RAM & disk space. | Determines if your current hardware can be upgraded safely. |
2. Backup your data | Back up documents, photos, settings to cloud / external drive; create a system image if possible. | Protects data in case something goes wrong during upgrade. |
3. Assess hardware options | If your PC does not meet requirements, see whether you can add necessary components (e.g. SSD, TPM module), or budget for a new machine.
| Enables you to decide whether to upgrade hardware or replace the PC. |
4. Initiate Windows 11 upgrade
| If compatible, use Windows Update or Microsoft’s Installation Assistant.
| Uses official, supported upgrade path — less risk. |
5. Post-upgrade tasks | Install all driver updates. Test apps, peripherals. Adjust settings (privacy, UI, default apps). Restore backed up data.
| Helps ensure the new installation works well and feels familiar.
|
6. If not upgrading yet
| Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU), keep OS up to date, limit exposure (use firewall, avoid risky downloads).
| Allows you to maintain some protection while planning transition.
|
Key Requirements: What “Compatible” Means
Not every Windows 10 device will qualify for the free upgrade. Microsoft has set minimum requirements for Windows 11, and your PC must meet them to ensure security and performance. Here’s what “compatible” means:
1. Processor (CPU):
- Your computer must have a processor that appears on Microsoft’s supported list.
- Older or entry-level CPUs may not be eligible.
2. TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
- This is a built-in security chip found in most modern PCs.
- It protects sensitive data such as encryption keys and login credentials.
3. Secure Boot
- A feature in your computer’s UEFI firmware that blocks untrusted software from loading during startup, preventing certain types of malware.
4. Memory (RAM)
- At least 4 GB is required, but 8 GB or more is recommended for smooth multitasking and a better overall experience.
5. Storage
- You need at least 64 GB of free space.
- Installing Windows 11 on an SSD (solid-state drive) will make your system significantly faster and more responsive.
5. Graphics and Drivers
- Your PC needs a DirectX 12-compatible graphics card with WDDM 2.0 driver support, along with updated drivers from the manufacturer.
Options If Your PC Can’t Meet Requirements
- Use Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) through Oct 13, 2026.
- Upgrade specific hardware: e.g. add TPM module, more RAM, larger drive.
- Use virtualization or cloud-PC service temporarily.
- Replace the device with a new Windows 11 PC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens on October 14, 2025?
Can I still stay on Windows 10 with security?
Is the upgrade free?
Will all my apps and data move over automatically?
Are there risks in upgrading now?
What if my business can’t upgrade right away?
Ready to Upgrade? Let Us Handle It for You
The end of Windows 10 support is coming fast. Don’t wait until October 2025 to scramble for solutions — start planning your move to Windows 11 today.
At ITS Gippsland, we help home users and businesses across Victoria with:
✅ Free compatibility checks for your current PCs
✅ Safe and secure data backup & migration
✅ Hardware upgrades or new Windows 11-ready devices
✅ End-to-end installation and ongoing IT support
Whether you want peace of mind at home or need to keep your business compliant and secure, our team has you covered.
Ready to Upgrade?
Let’s Make It Simple.
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