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.
https://oldpcguy.com/windows-10-and-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 after support
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How do I keep getting Windows 10 security updates?
Enroll in free Extended Security Updates (ESU) from Windows Update. Home PCs are covered until October 12, 2027.
How-to · Updated -
Is Windows 10 still safe to use?
Yes, if it's enrolled in ESU and keeps installing updates. Without ESU it gets riskier every month.
Quick answer · Published -
Why isn't the Windows 10 ESU "Enroll now" link showing?
Usually the PC isn't on version 22H2, is missing updates, isn't signed in with an admin Microsoft account, or is linked to a work or school.
Fix · Published -
What do I do with Windows 10 after October 2027?
Upgrade to Windows 11 if the PC qualifies. If not, switch to Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex, or replace it.
Decision guide · Published
Upgrading to Windows 11
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Can my PC run Windows 11?
Run Microsoft's free PC Health Check. PCs from 2018 on usually pass, and a TPM or Secure Boot failure can often be fixed in the BIOS.
How-to · Updated -
Windows 11 24H2 support ended. How do I update?
Check your version with winver. If it says 24H2, install version 26H2 from Windows Update, or install it by hand on an unsupported PC.
How-to · Published -
Should I install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC?
It works with tools like Rufus, but updates aren't guaranteed. Fine for a spare PC, not the one you bank on.
Decision guide · Updated -
Can a 7th-gen Intel PC run Windows 11?
Not officially, and no setting or processor swap changes that. Your options are ESU for now, Linux, a workaround, or replacing it.
Decision guide · Published
Setup & security
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What do I do about the Secure Boot certificates expiring?
Keep Windows Update and Secure Boot on. Most PCs update on their own; older ones may need a BIOS update.
How-to · Published -
How do I set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?
Make the install USB with Rufus and tick its options to skip the online account and create a local one.
How-to · Published
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.