In short: free support for Windows 10 ended on 14 October 2025. Your PC still starts and stays activated, but it no longer receives security fixes unless it is enrolled in the ESU (Extended Security Updates) programme, which Microsoft has extended for home users until 12 October 2027. In the European Economic Area, enrolment is free with a Microsoft account. The lasting solution is Windows 11, which is free if your PC is compatible and already activated on Windows 10.
What changed on 14 October 2025
- No more security fixes for PCs that are not enrolled in ESU, and no new features.
- No more technical support from Microsoft for Windows 10.
- Your licence is still valid: Windows 10 keeps starting, activating and running your software.
The risk is not a breakdown but growing exposure to vulnerabilities discovered after that date, especially on a connected PC used for email, online banking or work.
Option 1: consumer ESU, until 12 October 2027
Originally planned to end on 13 October 2026, the consumer ESU programme was extended by one year in June 2026. PCs already enrolled continue automatically, with nothing to do.
- Requirements: Windows 10 version 22H2 (Home, Pro, Pro Education or Pro for Workstations), all updates installed, and a signed-in Microsoft account with administrator rights. Child accounts are not eligible.
- In Europe (EEA): enrolment is free. You only need to sign in with that Microsoft account at least once every 60 days, otherwise updates pause until you sign in again.
- Outside the EEA: enrolment is free if you turn on Windows Backup (settings sync) or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points; otherwise it is paid.
- How to enrol: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, then Enroll now in the end-of-support panel.
Option 2: upgrade to Windows 11, free if your PC is compatible
An activated Windows 10 licence entitles you to the same edition of Windows 11: Home to Home, Pro to Pro. The upgrade runs from Windows Update or the Windows 11 Installation Assistant and keeps your files and programs. First check that your machine meets the requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, a recent processor) with our guide Is my PC compatible with Windows 11?
Good to know: a Windows 10 key also activates Windows 11 on a compatible PC. If you are setting up a machine from scratch, a Windows 11 Pro or Windows 10 key will do.
Option 3: businesses
Organisations can buy ESU per device for up to three years (until October 2028), with a price that rises each year. For a fleet of compatible PCs, moving to Windows 11 Pro with a volume licence is often cheaper and settles the question for years.
The options at a glance
| Option | Until | Cost | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer ESU | 12 October 2027 | Free in the EEA with a Microsoft account | PCs not compatible with Windows 11 |
| Business ESU | October 2028 at the latest | Paid, per device and per year | Fleets migrating gradually |
| Windows 11 | Ongoing support | Free with an activated Windows 10 licence | Compatible PCs |
My PC is not compatible: what now?
Enrol it in ESU to stay protected until October 2027 and plan to replace it before then. Avoid tools that force Windows 11 onto unsupported hardware: Microsoft does not guarantee updates on those machines, and some may fail to boot after a major update.
Frequently asked questions
Does Windows 10 still work after 14 October 2025?
Yes. Windows 10 starts, activates and runs your software as before. Only security fixes stop, except on PCs enrolled in the ESU programme.
Is ESU really free in Europe?
Yes, in the European Economic Area. You need a Microsoft account and must sign in at least once every 60 days to keep receiving updates, until 12 October 2027.
Do I need a new licence to move to Windows 11?
No, if your PC is compatible and already activated on Windows 10: upgrading to the same edition of Windows 11 is free. You only need a licence for a PC that was never activated or that you built yourself.
Can I still buy a Windows 10 key?
Yes. It is still useful for a PC that has to stay on Windows 10, and it also activates the same edition of Windows 11 on a compatible PC.
Need a licence to move to Windows 11 or reinstall a PC? Our Windows 11 and Windows 10 licences are delivered by email within minutes, with Microsoft's official download link and an invoice.