Windows 10 and 11 help for older PCs
Windows 10 support ended in October 2025, but free Extended Security Updates now run to October 12, 2027. These guides cover how to get them, what to do when the Enroll button won't show up, whether Windows 10 is still safe, and your options if the PC can't run Windows 11.
If you still use Windows 10, this covers what changed, how to sign up for the free updates, and what to plan for.
Windows 10 and 11 guides
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Windows 10 After Support
Free security updates now run to October 2027. How to turn them on, and what to do after that.
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Is Windows 10 Still Safe?
How to tell where your PC stands in 2026, and why antivirus alone isn't enough.
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ESU "Enroll Now" Missing?
The Windows 10 security update option isn't showing up. Work through the causes in order and fix it.
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Windows 10 After October 2027
What happens when free updates end, and the real options: Windows 11, Linux, 0patch, LTSC, or a new PC.
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Can My PC Run Windows 11?
How to check with PC Health Check, what each failed check means, and how to turn on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.
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Windows 11 on an Unsupported PC
What the Rufus workaround does, what Microsoft says about updates, and when to pick something else.
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The dates that matter
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| October 14, 2025 | Regular Windows 10 support ended |
| October 12, 2027 | Free Extended Security Updates for home PCs end |
| October 2028 | Microsoft 365 apps and Defender virus definitions stop updating on Windows 10 |
Not sure what comes after that? Here's what to do with Windows 10 after October 2027.