As you likely heard, Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. This means Microsoft will no longer offer free security updates, non-security updates and technical support on this version. That does not mean the PCs will no longer work; it simply means you are on your own to keep your device secure and functioning efficiently.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019ve already attempted to upgrade to Windows 10 but your PC failed the pesky compatibility checker and received an error message, don\u2019t worry \u2013 you still have options.<\/p>\n
Here are the 5 options available to you:<\/p>\n
We do not recommend this one, but it is still an option. When Windows 10 support ends, you will no longer have ongoing security updates to shield your business from cyber-risks and viruses. You will have to find another solution to protect your device, which may not be as comprehensive as it should be. Security aside, technical support and non-security updates that keep your computer running efficiently will also end, which could further hinder operations.<\/p>\n
If you aren\u2019t ready to ditch your PC quite yet and are a techie with the experience and knowledge to do it, you can remove Windows 10 and install the Linux operating system.<\/p>\n
Moving everything over to a new operating system will bring its own set of headaches, so make sure you only take this option if you\u2019re willing to deal with any issues that arise.<\/p>\n
If you attempted to upgrade your PC but received an error message, you might still be able to upgrade it anyway.<\/p>\n
ZDNET<\/a> walks you through the process, but, in a nutshell, you can upgrade your PC that was initially designed for Windows 10 by making a minor registry edit and then making sure your PC is configured to use Secure Boot with the Trusted Platform Module (TPM).<\/p>\n They go on to suggest that you shouldn\u2019t worry if you receive a message saying, \u201cIf you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won\u2019t be entitled to receive updates. Damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren\u2019t covered under the manufacturer warranty.\u201d This doesn\u2019t mean your information will be deleted on the spot; it simply prevents the company from being legally responsible if something happens because the device is no longer supported.<\/p>\n While Microsoft will no longer offer free security updates, they announced in December 2023 that they\u2019ll offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10. These will consist of subscription-based updates that will be available for users for up to three years. Before you sign up, there are a few details to consider:<\/p>\n If you choose this option, know that it\u2019s not inexpensive. For business owners, the subscription cost for the first year is $61. The price doubles in year two, costing $122, and again in year three, costing $244. This comes out to an outstanding $427, nearly 50% higher than when they offered this solution for Windows 7 in 2020.<\/p>\n Educators, fortunately, get a price break. The pricing structure is the same, but the cost for the first year is only $1. It doubles to $2 in the second year and doubles again to $4 in the third year.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to note that these updates are cumulative and do not include technical support. This means you can only get a year-two subscription IF you already purchased year one, and you\u2019re on your own for the technical assistance you need.<\/p>\n It is clear the ESUs are not meant to be a long-term solution and are priced to encourage users to upgrade to Windows 11.<\/p>\n If your device is old and on the verge of being outdated, buying a new PC compatible with Windows 11 is a great option. New computers typically run faster, have better security protection and aid productivity.<\/p>\n Before making a decision, make sure you back up your data thoroughly and regularly. Losing all your information is not a problem you want to take on.<\/p>\n Do not wait until the last minute to start thinking about your options. Time will pass quickly, and you want to have this handled before October 2025. If choosing what to do feels daunting, our team of experts can help. We can guide you in making the best decision for your unique situation. If you choose to upgrade, our team will work to create a seamless transition that avoids unnecessary costs or downtime. To get started, give us a call at 469-453-6010 or click here<\/a> to book now.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As you likely heard, Windows 10 will reach its end of life…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":128,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4203","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-richardson-blog"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n
\n
\n