Let's clear up the scary part first: your Windows 10 PC didn't stop working on 14 October 2025. It still starts, your files are still there, and your apps still open. What ended was Microsoft's regular support, and the part of that which matters most is security updates.
So what's the real risk?
Security holes keep being discovered in old software. On a supported system, a fix arrives through Windows Update. Without support, those holes stay open for home users. Your PC doesn't get worse overnight, but the risk slowly builds, especially on a machine you use for email, banking and browsing.
Consumer Extended Security Updates, which offered a one-year stay of execution, ran out in October 2026. Businesses can still pay for extended updates for a while longer, up to October 2028.
Should you upgrade?
Upgrade to Windows 11 if:
- Your PC passes the hardware check.
- You use it online every day, particularly for anything involving money or personal details.
Staying on Windows 10 for now can make sense if:
- The PC can't run Windows 11 and replacing it isn't practical right now.
- It runs one specific program or device that won't work on anything newer.
- It's mostly offline, like a workshop machine or an old PC running a single task.
If you're staying, make it safer
- Keep your browser up to date. Check that yours still supports Windows 10.
- Back up your important files somewhere other than that PC.
- Use a separate, up-to-date device for banking if you can.
- Be extra wary of unexpected attachments and downloads.
- Start planning your next step instead of leaving it for later.
Moving to Windows 11 when you're ready
Back up first, whatever anyone tells you about how smooth upgrades are. They usually are smooth, and it's a lovely thing to have a backup you never needed. Then pick your edition: our guide to Home or Pro should make that quick.