End of support for Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and Windows 7

This page has the information, tools and tips you need for transitioning from Windows 10, Windows 8.1 and Windows 7 to Windows 11 with ease.

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Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025

After 14 October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11.

Upgrade now to Windows 11

If your PC meets the minimum requirements to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade to Windows 11 for free7. If your PC is not able to upgrade to Windows 11 or if you want to replace it, you can move to Windows 11 by purchasing a new PC. Find a new PC here.

Learn why Windows 11 is right for you

Compare Windows 10 to Windows 11 and see the great features in Windows 11. Or if you’re ready to buy a new computer, get help choosing one.

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Compare Windows 10 & 11

See new Windows features and get help selecting the best PC for your needs.

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Meet Windows 11

Learn how to use the new features of Windows 11 and see what makes it the best Windows yet.

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How to shop for a laptop

Use our simple guide to start shopping for your new laptop.

It’s easy to move your stuff to a new PC

Windows backup helps you save and transfer your files, photos, settings, apps and log-in credentials so you can instantly feel at home on your new computer.

If your Windows 10 PC can’t run Windows 11 or if you are ready to buy a new computer

Let us help you find the right PC for your needs.

An array of Windows 11 devices

Use these tools to shop

Get help finding a PC you love.

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Keep your files safe with OneDrive

If you plan to keep using your Windows 10 PC, we understand. Though the end of support date for Windows 10 won’t occur until October 2025, we recommend keeping your files backed up and easily accessible across devices using OneDrive.

Frequently asked questions

End of life and end of support are terms that refer to the end of technical support and security updates for Windows 10. After 10 years, this older version of Windows will no longer receive free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance or security fixes. For consumers, end of support means that Microsoft recommends updating to the latest version of Windows for the latest critical updates and support that can keep you secure online.

You can find information on how to recycle your old PC responsibly with our end-of-life management and recycling initiatives.

As of 14 October 2025, PCs running Windows 10 will still function, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:

  • Technical support
  • Feature updates
  • Security updates or fixes

While your Windows 10 PC will continue to function, it will be at greater risk for viruses and malware when Windows 10 reaches end of support. We recommend you transition to a version of Windows that is still supported. If your existing device cannot run Windows 11, a new PC that can run Windows 11 makes for an easy transition and great experience.

No. Your PC will continue to work, but support for Windows 10 is discontinued. After 14 October 2025, your Windows 10 PC will no longer receive security updates and Microsoft will no longer be available to provide Windows 10 technical support.

Check if your PC meets the minimum requirements by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update.

If your PC is able to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade to Windows 11 for free.

If your PC is not able to upgrade to Windows 11 or if you want to replace it, you can move to Windows 11 by purchasing a new PC. Find a PC that is right for you here.

There are a couple of ways to get Windows 11:

Purchase a new PC with Windows 11: Windows 11 is the most current version of Windows. If you have an older PC, you can upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 by buying a new PC. Hardware and software have improved a lot since Windows 10 was released, and today’s computers are faster, more powerful and more secure.

Help me choose

Install Windows 11 on your current PC: Check to see if your current PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update. If your PC is able to upgrade, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade to Windows 11 for free.

The upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro to the equivalent edition of Windows 11 is free (for example, Windows 10 Pro to Windows 11 Pro). Check to see if this is an option for you by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update. If your PC meets the minimum system requirements and is able to upgrade, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

For S mode users, the upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 Home edition in S mode and Windows 10 Pro edition in S mode is free. If your PC meets the minimum system specifications, the Windows 10 Home edition in S mode can upgrade to the Windows 11 Home edition in S mode. If your Windows 10 PC is running the Pro edition in S mode, you will need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro edition is not available in S mode. Learn more about S mode here.

ESU is a paid programme that will entitle enrolled PCs to receive Critical and Important security updates after support for Windows 10 ends. The programme will provide Critical and Important security updates but will not provide other types of updates or technical support. Final pricing and enrolment conditions will be made available closer to the October 2025 date for end of support.

For more information on ESU and lifecycle, see Windows Lifecycle FAQ.

We have a website designed to help you with a decision-making process for selecting a new PC.

Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays and ongoing updates to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost. To receive updates, internet access is required and service fees may apply. Read more about Windows security.

Windows 11 Home is the perfect operating system for personal and household use, while Windows 11 Pro offers all the familiar features of Windows 11 Home, plus additional features such as BitLocker, remote desktop and domain join to support professionals. Compare versions of Windows 11.

Microsoft 365 apps will not be supported on Windows 10 when it reaches end of support on 14 October 2025, because the operating system will no longer meet the system requirements for Microsoft 365 apps. To remain supported, you can move forward by either upgrading your device to Windows 11 or by setting up the existing subscription on any new computer you purchase.

From 14 October 2025, Office 2016 and Office 2019 will also reach end of support. To remain supported we recommend you consider one of the Microsoft 365 subscription options or you can install the non-subscription supported version currently available, Office 2021.

To remain supported, you can move forward by either upgrading your device to Windows 11 or by setting up the existing subscription on any new computer you purchase. If you are running Office 2021, you can also migrate that subscription to a new Windows 11 device.

People find laptops more convenient than desktops because they are lighter in weight and more portable. If you buy a laptop, you can still connect it to a larger monitor, keyboard and mouse so that your way of using it is similar to how you have used your Windows 10 desktop. Then, you can disconnect and use it as a laptop when you travel or if you want to work in a different setting. If you have CDs or DVDs you want to access, you can still plug in an external DVD drive, usually by plugging into a USB port on the laptop.

We can recommend you check with your PC manufacturer or a local hardware expert to confirm what options are available to you. See this article for more information.

Looking for more?

Get help with your transition to Windows 11, and make the most of your Windows experience.

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Tips & tricks for Windows 11

Use our simple guide to make the most of Windows 11. From accessibility to personalisation, shortcuts and security, find the information you need.

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  • Screens simulated. Features and app availability may vary by region.
  • 1 Windows 11 satisfaction claims are based on the U.S. Microsoft Customer Usage & Satisfaction Program Survey, February 2022.
  • 2 Windows Hello requires specialised hardware including a Windows Hello capable device, fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices.
  • 4 Based on average time comparison between typing a password respectively detecting a face or fingerprint to authentication success.
  • 5 Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors.
  • 6 Internet access required, fees may apply. Requires Microsoft account.
  • 7 Windows 11 upgrade is available for eligible PCs that meet minimum device specifications. Upgrade timing may vary by device. Internet service fees may apply. Features and app availability may vary by region. Certain features require specific hardware (see Windows 11 specifications).