Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025.

After that date your computer will still work, but it will no longer receive security updates. This means it could gradually become less safe to use, especially for banking, shopping and other online tasks.

You have a few options:

1. Stay on Windows 10

·       Pros: No cost, you keep using your familiar computer.

·       Cons: Increasing security risks after 14 October 2025; some new programs won’t work.

2. Upgrade your current computer to Windows 11

·      Pros: Keeps you up to date and safe; familiar to use once you get used to it.

·      Cons: Not all older PCs can run Windows 11; there may be a learning curve.

3. Buy a new PC with Windows 11 already installed

·      Pros: New machine will be faster, safer and supported for years to come.

·      Cons: It’s a financial outlay; you’ll need to move your files and get used to changes.

4. Enrol in the paid Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Updates

·       (ESU) program for continued security patches

What’s the best choice?

·       If your PC is less than 5 years old, it may well be able to upgrade to Windows 11.

·       If it’s older, it might be more sensible (and less frustrating) to start fresh with a new computer.

Recently, Jerry Goldbloom suggested another more adventurous alternative – to move to the Linux Operating System on your old PC.