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Windows 11 has had poor adoption, and many people adhere to old Windows 10. Microsoft has been pressing users to update, threatening to end the software support and warn about possible cybersecurity risks. But Windows 11 is not exactly the best operating system to leave Redmond. Even if so, many people simply cannot update due to the requirements of their steep system.

In fact, Windows 11 was needed almost four years after his debut in 2021 to finally overcome his predecessor in user numbers. Now that Windows 10 is being eliminated, many users, especially those with older PCs who do not meet hardware requirements, are understandably concerned. Wisconsin Tony recently asked us the same thing:

“I heard that Microsoft will stop providing safety patches for Windows 10 after October. My laptop can not be updated to Windows 11 because the CPU is too old. Since I am not an expert in technology and I do not feel comfortable replacing the CPU (I do not want to do so), I wonder if I have a good antivirus program, do you still improve it? Hachuesos and viruses and viruses. “

I understand your concern, Tony. Paste with a non -compatible operating system brings safety risks. Security researchers warn that non -compatible systems, such as Windows 10, will become increasingly attractive objectives for computer pirates. Hackers are often launched in reverse engineering patches for newer systems such as Windows 11 to find similar defects in the oldest such as Windows 10. Without further corrections, these vulnerabilities remain open, which makes non -compatible systems a tempting objective.

However, he is not exempt from options and has a defense. We are going to walk from what you can do if your PC continues to run Windows 10.

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Image that shows the laptop of Windows. (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)

Windows 11 finally exceeds Windows 10 in market share: here is why it took so long

According to Statcounter, Windows 11 has finally surpassed Windows 10 in terms of desktop and laptops in early July. The newest operating system now represents 52 percent of all Windows facilities, with a little less than 48 percent in June. In the same period, Windows 10 fell from 53.2 percent to 44.6 percent. Interestingly, Windows 7 still has a small but remarkable presence, with 2.35 percent of users who refuse to let it go.

This change occurs almost four years after Microsoft announced Windows 11 in June 2021. From the beginning, it was criticized by strict hardware rules. A TPM 2.0 chip and newer processors were required. Many functional PCs could not update. The operating system also introduced a renewed user interface that some users found unnecessary or confusing, which led to a slow adoption rate.

A man who writes on a laptop from Windows. (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)

What happens when Windows 10 support ends in 2025? This is what you need to know

Windows 10 is reaching the end of its official support on October 14, 2025. That means that Microsoft will stop publishing new routine security functions and updates for the general public. For most users, this marks the end of the road, unless they take specific measures to continue receiving updates.

To extend security updates beyond this deadline, Microsoft offers a program called Extended Security currentations (ESU). Normally, this would cost $ 30 per year for personal users. However, Microsoft is doing the first year for free if you make a backup of your PC using the Windows backup application and synchronizes your configuration with OneDrive, or if you redeem 1,000 Microsoft rewards points.

Microsoft has not revealed prices beyond the first year, so it is not clear if the rate of $ 30/year will continue to be the same in 2026 and 2027.

If you do not opt for any of these methods, you must pay the $ 30 to continue receiving critical patches until October 2026. This is especially relevant to those who cannot be updated to Windows 11 due to hardware limitations.

Even after the end of the general support, Microsoft will continue to update the Microsoft defender antivirus in Windows 10 to October 2028. Therefore, although the complete security updates of the system will stop for the majority, the basic protection of malware will continue for a few more years.

Windows laptop. (Kurt “Cyberguy” Knutsson)

Can’t you update to Windows 11? 8 safe alternatives for Windows 10 users in 2025

1) Stay with Windows 10 to 2025 and extends the support if necessary

You can continue using Windows 10 until October 14, 2025, with full access to regular security and stability updates. After that, you can extend the protection registering in the extended security updates program of Microsoft. The first year is free if you use the Windows backup application to synchronize its configuration with OneDrive, or if you redeem 1,000 Microsoft rewards points.

2) Update to Windows 11 if your PC admits it

If your computer meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11, the update is the easiest long -term solution. You will get access to updates of current features, improved security and long -term support through at least 2031.

3) Flex Chromeos Test

Google offers a free operating system called Chromeos Flex, designed for PC and older laptops. It is based on the same system used in Chromebooks and focuses on speed, simplicity and security. However, it is not compatible with Android applications or some hardware features such as digital fingerprint readers and may not work for tasks such as video edition or games. This can be an excellent option if we mainly use web applications such as Gmail, Google Docs or Zoom.

4) Change to Linux

Linux’s distributions such as Ubuntu, Linux Mint or Zorin provide you with a stable and easy to use experience, especially for those that come from Windows. You can use them in older hardware without any license rate, and have access to thousands of free applications. While there may be a small learning curve, many users find that Linux is reliable and surprisingly easy to adapt for daily tasks such as navigation, writing and reproduction of media.

5) Buy a new PC with pre -installed Windows 11

If your current system cannot handle Windows 11 and is not interested in alternatives such as chromeos or Linux, investing in a new computer may be the most direct route. The new devices come with pre -installed Windows 11 and are built to admit it completely. This ensures that it continues to receive updates, characteristics and support for several years without additional effort.

See our best options to obtain the best desktop computers by 2025 in Cyberguy.com/bestDesktops And also our best options for the best laptops in Cyberguy.com/bestlaptops.

Learn how to get rid of your old PC or Mac by clicking on Cyberguy.com/recyclepc.

6) Install strong antivirus software for extended protection on Windows 10

If you decide to stay with Windows 10 beyond its official support period, have strong third -party antivirus protection becomes even more important. Although Microsoft Defender will continue to receive updates until 2028, it is possible that it is not enough once the system stops obtaining central security patches. Installing an accredited antivirus program can help protect your malware, phishing and other threats.

Get my elections for the best 2025 antivirus protection winners for their Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices in Cyberguy.com/Lockupyoutech.

7) Make a backup of your files first, regardless of what you choose

Before making big changes, be sure to back up your important files. You can use cloud services such as OneDrive or Google Drive, or plug an external hard drive.

8) Consider a secondary device (tablet, chromebook or iPad)

If you mainly use your computer for email, navigation or video calls, a tablet or chromebook could be all you need. They are low maintenance, safe and, often, more affordable than a new Windows laptop.

Check out our best options to see the best 2025 tablets in Cyberguy.com/bastables.

Kurt key takeway

The end of the Windows 10 support is not a crisis, but it requires action. You should start planning your next movement now. Consider updating to a newer version of Windows. You can also change to a different operating system. Another option is to invest in stronger security tools. And be alert: as the end of the life of Windows 10 approaches, the scammers will take advantage. Be careful with telephone calls, emails or emerging windows that pretend to be from Microsoft that offers “urgent update help.” Microsoft doesn’t call users of nothing; These are scams that try to steal their personal information or install malware. What you choose, do not delay the decision. Make sure your PC remains protected and updated.

Windows 10 key dates to know:

• Now until October 14, 2025: Windows 10 continues to receive complete support and security updates.
• October 15, 2025 until October 2026: The first year of extended security updates begins (free or $ 30).
• October 2028: Final final of the antivirus updates of the Microsoft defender for Windows 10.

Will you pay extended security updates or use the free options that Microsoft offers? Get us knowing in Cyberguy.com/contact.

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