Windows 10 Is DEAD! What You NEED to Know Now!

Summary

In this video, Dave discusses the impending end of support for Windows 10, set for October 14, 2025. He explains the risks of continuing with an unsupported OS, including security vulnerabilities, and suggests upgrading to Windows 11 or exploring alternatives like Linux. Dave also addresses the extended security updates program for those unwilling to upgrade. He emphasizes the importance of acting before support ends, as failure to do so could result in incompatible software, outdated drivers, and increased security threats. The video encourages viewers to make informed decisions about their digital future.

Takeaways

• 😀 Windows 10 support will officially end on October 14, 2025, leaving users without security updates, bug fixes, or tech support.
• 😀 Microsoft’s decision to phase out Windows 10 is driven by the need to focus on newer technology, particularly for improved security features.
• 😀 Windows 11 requires more modern hardware, such as TPM 2.0, secure boot, and a more recent processor, which may leave some users unable to upgrade.
• 😀 While Windows 11 offers enhanced security features, including hardware-level encryption, Windows 10 lacks such support, making it increasingly vulnerable over time.
• 😀 Without security updates after October 2025, Windows 10 machines will become more susceptible to cyber threats, even with antivirus software in place.
• 😀 Users can extend Windows 10 security updates through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, but it’s a temporary and expensive solution, with increasing costs each year.
• 😀 For machines that can’t upgrade to Windows 11, users may consider switching to Linux, which offers a secure and free alternative but may require adjustment for those unfamiliar with it.
• 😀 Sticking with Windows 10 after its end of support may lead to compatibility issues with new software, drivers, and apps as support fades.
• 😀 Some users might need to purchase new hardware if their current machines don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, as older PCs may no longer receive support for modern software.
• 😀 Users who choose to continue using Windows 10 after the support cutoff should be cautious, keeping such systems offline or isolated from sensitive data to avoid security risks.

Q & A

Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025?

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 as part of their modern lifecycle policy, which typically lasts about a decade for each major OS version. The company is focusing on newer systems, like Windows 11, which includes updated security and performance features that align better with current technological advancements.

What will happen if I continue using Windows 10 after its support ends?

If you continue using Windows 10 after October 2025, you won't receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support from Microsoft. While the system will still function, it will become increasingly vulnerable to attacks and compatibility issues, as new software and drivers may no longer support it.

What is TPM 2.0 and why is it important for Windows 11?

TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) is a hardware-based security feature that stores encryption keys and digital identity data securely. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 to ensure a higher level of protection against cyber threats, particularly ransomware and attacks on system vulnerabilities, which Windows 10 wasn't built to handle.

Can I pay Microsoft to keep Windows 10 security updates after support ends?

Yes, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides security updates for a fee. For home users, it costs around $30 for the first year, but this is not a long-term solution, and the price increases over time. The program only extends support for three additional years.

What are the hardware requirements for upgrading to Windows 11?

Windows 11 requires a compatible processor, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0. These requirements may leave older PCs unable to upgrade, which is why users may need to consider either upgrading their hardware or looking at alternatives.

What alternatives do I have if my PC doesn’t support Windows 11?

If your PC doesn’t support Windows 11, you have a few options: you can either upgrade the hardware to meet Windows 11’s requirements or switch to an alternative operating system like Linux. Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Mint, and Zorin are user-friendly and can work well on older hardware.

What is Linux and how is it different from Windows?

Linux is an open-source operating system that is highly customizable and less resource-intensive than Windows. Unlike Windows, which is proprietary, Linux is used by a variety of distributions such as Ubuntu and Mint, which are designed for ease of use, especially for users familiar with Windows. However, it may not support certain proprietary software like Adobe products or specific professional tools.

What happens if I choose to stick with Windows 10 after support ends?

If you stick with Windows 10 after its support ends, your system will gradually become less compatible with new apps and hardware. Over time, you will face issues with new software, drivers, and browsers that no longer support outdated versions of Windows, leaving you vulnerable to security risks.

What is the risk of continuing to use an unsupported version of Windows?

Using an unsupported version of Windows exposes your system to significant security risks. As Microsoft stops releasing updates and patches, any vulnerabilities in the system will remain unaddressed, making your PC a prime target for malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats.

How do I know if my PC can run Windows 11?

To check if your PC can run Windows 11, ensure it meets the system requirements: a supported processor, 4 GB of RAM or more, 64 GB of storage, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a DirectX 12 compatible graphics card. Microsoft offers a PC Health Check tool that can help determine compatibility.

Is it worth upgrading to Windows 11 if my PC supports it?

If your PC supports Windows 11, upgrading is recommended for better security, performance, and long-term compatibility. Windows 11 includes features like TPM 2.0, which are crucial for protecting against modern cyber threats. Additionally, Microsoft will continue supporting Windows 11 with regular updates, unlike Windows 10 after 2025.