Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.
Users on Windows 10 will have to upgrade to Windows 11.
This upgrade is free if your PC meets certain requirements.
Windows 10 has been the go-to OS for many users across the globe and was the most-used browser for a long time. However, it was dethroned by its successor, Windows 11, in June this year. Now, support for the old browser is ending soon and it is mandatory to upgrade to the latest version of Windows so that you keep receiving updates and support.
SurveyIf you’re still running Windows 10, upgrading to Windows 11 is not only strongly recommended, it’s free (provided your hardware meets Microsoft’s minimum requirements or can be made to comply). Before we take you through the process of upgrading to Windows 11 for free, let’s first take a look at how to ensure that your PC is compatible with the update.
Also read: Laptop performance slowing down? These 5 mistakes could be the reason
Is your PC eligible for free Windows 11 update?
Before upgrading, you should verify if your PC meets Windows 11’s hardware requirements. Microsoft provides a tool called PC Health Check that can check for TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) support, Secure Boot and UEFI firmware, Minimum CPU generation, RAM, storage, and graphics requirements If your machine already has these, you can proceed normally. If not, you might see warnings or compatibility error messages.
How to upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC is compatible, you can simply head over to settings and look for an option to download and install Windows 11 will appear once your device is cleared.
For users who don’t see the update option right away, Microsoft offers two official alternatives. The Windows 11 Installation Assistant can be downloaded from the company’s website and will walk you through the upgrade. Another route is to use installation media, such as a USB drive or ISO file, which can be set up to either preserve your files and applications or perform a completely clean install. These methods ensure you remain within Microsoft’s guidelines and continue receiving regular updates once the upgrade is complete.
What if your PC is not compatible?
So, what can you do if your PC gets flagged as incompatible? Many older machines fail the Health Check due to missing TPM modules, unsupported CPUs, or lack of Secure Boot. In some cases, these issues can be resolved through simple BIOS or firmware adjustments, like enabling TPM or switching to UEFI mode. However, Microsoft has made it clear that unsupported devices fall outside official coverage. While it is still technically possible to install Windows 11 on such hardware using installation media and workarounds, those systems may not receive critical patches or could encounter stability issues over time.
However, if you don’t want to change your PC and wish to stay on Windows 10 a little longer, Microsoft has also announced an Extended Security Update (ESU) programme. This option, available until October 2026, allows users to keep their Windows 10 PCs secure for another year, though availability may vary depending on eligibility and potential costs. Some users might qualify for ESUs at no charge, while others might need to subscribe or use Microsoft Rewards points.
Also read: Microsoft will end Windows 10 support soon, but you can still get it free for a year
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Divyanshi Sharma
Divyanshi Sharma is a media and communications professional with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With a strong background in tech journalism, she has covered everything from the latest gadgets to gaming trends and brings a sharp editorial lens to every story. She holds a master’s diploma in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in English literature. Her love for writing and gaming began early—often skipping classes to try out the latest titles—which naturally evolved into a career at the intersection of technology and storytelling. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her exploring virtual worlds on her console or PC, or testing out a new laptop she managed to get her hands on. View Full Profile
