A complete guide to Windows 10 end of support

We’ve got important news for your Windows devices. Starting October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive support updates or free software updates. Move to Windows 11 for enhanced security, better productivity, and access to the latest features. And guess what? Moving to Windows 11 is easier than ever. Experience better performance¹, battery life² that lasts, and faster web browsing. Plus, get even more out of Windows 11 by leveling up to the new Copilot+ PCs—the fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs ever.

What does this mean for you?

With more productive, creative, and smarter AI tools to enhance your Windows 11 PC, you can experience the best version of Windows, ever. This is still the Windows you know and love, and more.

Because support for Windows 10 is ending in October 2025, you’ll want to make sure you install Windows 11 or buy a device that uses Windows 11. Use this checklist to ensure you have what you need before the upgrade:

1. Minimum system requirements: Before upgrading to Windows 11, make sure your device meets the minimum system requirements. These include a compatible 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Certain features require specific hardware. Check here for a more detailed list of system requirements.
2. Upgrade by software download: One of the simplest ways to switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is by downloading the upgrade through Windows Update. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. If your device is eligible, you'll see the option to download and install Windows 11. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
3. Buy a new device: If your current device doesn't meet the minimum system requirements, consider purchasing a new device pre-installed with Windows 11. Not sure which device is right for you? Take this quiz to get personalized recommendations for your next PC.

Enjoy the benefits of Windows 11

Windows 11 is the most technologically advanced version of Windows yet. And more choice in the PC ecosystem means there's a PC made for each of us. Each device offers a personalized experience, whether you need something powerful enough for next level gaming or prioritize the peace of mind of next generation security. From the moment it’s installed, Windows 11 brings you the highest standard for Windows security available. These PCs come with the power, graphics potential, and memory to elevate your work and play. Using Copilot and Windows 11 can inspire and assist you like never before, from the conference room to the canvas. Whether you use your device for gaming, business, or anything in between, your Windows 11 PC has the battery life² to last wherever you go, whatever you do.

Key Windows 11 features

Windows 11 has more to love. Not only is it easy to make the switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11, but you can also enjoy elevated performance, enhanced security, and do your part with sustainability to help you save on battery life² and energy. Here are more details about each of these standout features:

Easy onboarding: Moving to Windows 11 is easy

• OneDrive: OneDrive is available on both Windows 11 and 10 providing your photos, docs, and other files a second life in the event your PC is stolen, for example.
• Quick assist: Quick Assist on Windows 11 lets you share your screen with someone you trust.³ They can see what you see, troubleshoot, and fix it themselves if you allow control.
• Photos: The Photos app helps you organize and edit your pictures. However, only on Windows 11 do you receive the latest features that make reliving those moments more fun.
• Clipchamp: With dynamic templates^4 5 and dazzling effects, Clipchamp makes it easy for anyone to edit videos like a pro. It comes built into Windows 11.

Performance: The speed you need

• Battery life: Whether you're on your PC at a coffee shop or poolside with friends, you have powerful performance that gets the job done with battery life that lasts.²
• Storage: Access and transfer data at lightning-fast speeds with solid-state drives (SSDs). On average, computers with SSDs weigh less than five pounds. And because SSDs consume less power, you get longer battery life.²
• Touch: Windows is versatile and adaptable, transforming to fit your needs. Use touch⁶, digital pen^8 9, and voice⁷ to work the way you want. Windows 11 now recognizes more touch gestures.⁶ In addition to your standard swipe, pinch, and scroll, you can swipe in from the edge of your screen to open useful tools like notifications, widgets, and the taskbar.
• Thin, light models: With a more portable Windows 11 PC, go wherever adventure takes you. Choose from a variety of devices that best fit your lifestyle. Newer computer models with solid-state drives often weigh less than five pounds– which make them perfectly lightweight.

Security: We got you covered

• Identity: Windows Hello is a faster, more personal, more secure way to get instant access to your Windows devices using only your facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN number.¹⁰
• Passkey: With passkeys, you can use Windows Hello  to sign in with a PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint,¹⁰ making signing into web sites and applications faster and more convenient than ever before.
• Smart App Control: Smart App Control adds significant protection from new and emerging threats by blocking apps that are malicious or untrusted.¹¹ It works alongside your other security software, such as Microsoft Defender or non-Microsoft antivirus tools, for added protection.
• Microsoft Account: From your PC to the cloud, online or on the go, your Microsoft account helps protect your identity and data. You can also create a family group and set parental controls for free with Microsoft Family Safety.

Sustainability: Windows and sustainability

• Energy saving in Settings: Windows 11 can help you reduce your device’s energy consumption. With energy-efficiency features like optimized power settings, adjustable screen brightness, enhanced battery management, and dark mode options, reducing energy use.

Windows 11 Home vs Windows 11 Pro

Once you upgrade to Windows 11, you may want to consider whether you want to install your device with Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro. While both versions have much in common, such as robust firewall protection and Windows Hello, they also have their differences.

For most users, Windows 11 Home has everything that you might need for everyday use, school, and gaming. This version of Windows 11 comes equipped with a sleek and user-friendly interface, app compatibility, and improved security, so you can enjoy watching your favorite shows and playing the latest games, all while keeping your data protected.

If you are a professional looking for a system to manage multiple PCs in a business environment, Windows 11 Pro has everything you might need. Not only does it come equipped with enhanced security features, such as BitLocker encryption and Windows Information Protection, it also offers management features, such as Group Policy Management and Remote Desktop, making it a powerful and versatile operating system for your business.

More is possible

With its faster performance, improved security, sustainability features, and easy onboarding, Windows 11 improves upon Windows 10 and is designed to meet your needs for work, gaming, or casual surfing. Whether you're looking for a better way to enjoy gaming or a more secure system for your business, Windows 11 caters to all these needs and more. Upgrade to Windows 11 and see for yourself that more is possible.