Windows 10 Has Reached End of Life
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ended support, updates, and security patches for its Windows 10 operating system.
Transitioning from Windows 10 is vital for ensuring the ongoing safety and functionality of devices. Devices running Windows 10 will continue to operate but will no longer receive essential security updates, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft. Without protection against potential new vulnerabilities, these devices will become increasingly susceptible to malware and other cyber threats. Unsupported operating systems also face the risk of incompatibility with future software updates and cloud services.
Updating from Windows 10 to Windows 11
Unlike earlier versions of the Windows operating system, Windows 11 is installed as an update rather than requiring a complete system overhaul. This approach provides several advantages, including faster installation and ensuring no data or applications are lost. Depending on the environment—whether at home or work—the upgrade process can take between 30 and 90 minutes to complete.
Updating Personal Devices
Those using personal computers running Windows 10 are encouraged to take advantage of Microsoft’s free upgrade to Windows 11. The Windows 10 computer must be running the most recent paid-up version of Windows 10 and meet the minimum specified hardware requirements. If compatible, the upgrade should be visible from the computer’s “Check for updates” dialogue.
What to Expect with Windows 11
The primary changes introduced with Windows 11 feature a visually refreshed user interface with rounded corners, centered text, and larger icons. The taskbar is now centered at the bottom of the desktop, showcasing smaller icons aligned in the center, akin to those in Chrome OS. Additional advantages include improved performance, enhanced built-in security measures, AI-powered features for customization, and various productivity improvements for users. Windows 11 is optimized for hybrid work and is designed to be more intuitive and cleaner than prior versions of Windows.
Example of the Windows 11 user interface
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