Short version: Microsoft ends mainstream support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. If you want free security updates and the newest features, you should check whether your PC can run Windows 11 and plan an upgrade or replacement if needed. Below is a practical, no-fluff guide on what that means, how to test your machine, and what experts and users are saying. Microsoft Support+1
What just happened, and why you should care first
Microsoft will stop issuing regular security updates, feature fixes, and technical support for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. That means systems left on Windows 10 will be at higher risk for security holes unless you take action. Microsoft has posted an end-of-support notice and guidance on next steps. Microsoft Support+1
Microsoft also announced extended security updates options and related pricing for businesses. Recently, the company backtracked for European consumers, offering another year of free Extended Security Updates in the European Economic Area after pressure from consumer groups, while other regions have different terms. If you are in business IT, the cost and logistics of sticking to Windows 10 past the cutoff will matter. The Verge+2Windows Central+2
The key question in big letters
Is your PC Windows 11 compatible? The single best first step is to run Microsoft’s official PC Health Check tool or consult the Windows 11 specifications page to see if your hardware meets the minimums. Microsoft Support+1
Minimum Windows 11 system requirements in plain English
Microsoft’s published minimums include a 64-bit processor with two or more cores at 1 GHz or faster, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot support, and TPM version 2.0. You also need a DirectX 12 compatible graphics device and a display that is 720p or better. If any of those items are missing, your PC will likely fail the compatibility check. Microsoft’s detailed specs are here. Microsoft+1
Step by step how to check if your computer is compatible
- Download and run Microsoft’s PC Health Check app from the official Microsoft page and click Check now. This is the simplest route and gives a yes or no, plus an explanation for any failure. Microsoft Support+1
- If PC Health Check flags TPM or Secure Boot, consult Microsoft’s guide on enabling TPM 2.0 in your firmware or BIOS settings. Some PCs have TPM, but it is disabled by default. Microsoft Support
- For a more granular readout, try community tools like WhyNotWin11 or ReadySunValley on GitHub, which break down each requirement. Use caution and only download from trusted links. These tools are useful if you want the technical reason a PC fails compatibility. GitHub+1
- If you prefer manual checks, compare your CPU against Microsoft’s supported processor lists and confirm Secure Boot and TPM status in UEFI. Microsoft posts supported CPU lists and guidance for administrators. Microsoft Learn+1
If your PC is not compatible, what are your options
Option one is to buy a new PC that ships with Windows 11 and the required security hardware. Option two is to upgrade particular components if your machine supports it, for example, installing a TPM 2.0 module or switching to a UEFI firmware with Secure Boot. Option three is to stay on Windows 10 but enroll in Extended Security Updates if you qualify or are willing to pay; note that the rules and costs differ by region and by business versus consumer. Microsoft outlined ESU pricing and conditions earlier. The Verge+1
What experts and users are saying
Security experts generally applaud the stricter hardware baseline because features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot raise the floor for malware protection. Ars Technica and other outlets have argued that the requirements do improve security, but also exclude perfectly capable machines and create upgrade friction. Many users and some IT pros have complained that the rules feel strict and that Microsoft could have made a smoother transition. Others note that, in practice, Windows 11 adoption climbed steadily, and Microsoft has been nudging users and OEMs to move on. Ars Technica+2Ars Technica+2
Market data shows Windows 11 is now a majority or close to a majority on many stats services, but Windows 10 still sits on a large portion of PCs worldwide. That split means millions of users will need to act or find themselves on an unsupported platform this autumn. Use the StatCounter and Windows Central reports for current adoption numbers. StatCounter Global Stats+1
Practical checklist before you upgrade
- Back up everything. Use an external drive or cloud backup and verify your files. Microsoft’s transition guide recommends full backups before any major OS move. Microsoft Support
- Run PC Health Check and a secondary tool like WhyNotWin11 if you want a detailed breakdown. Microsoft Support+1
- Update firmware and drivers. Some UEFI updates add TPM support or flip Secure Boot on. Check your PC maker’s support pages. Microsoft Support
- If your machine fails compatibility, decide: buy a new PC, upgrade components, or keep Windows 10 with ESU for the short term while you plan. Review Microsoft’s ESU options and recent changes in Europe, if that applies to you. The Verge+1
Tips for IT teams and small businesses
IT teams should inventory hardware now. If many devices fail the Windows 11 baseline, consider bulk purchasing newer hardware or planning staged rollouts. Microsoft’s lifecycle pages and business guidance outline support timelines and what receives updates after October 14, 2025. ESU pricing for businesses can add notable costs, so budget accordingly. Microsoft Learn+1
Common questions answered
Will Office still run on Windows 10 after the cutoff? Microsoft says Microsoft 365 apps will continue to run, but support for Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 ends in a scheduled way; check Microsoft lifecycle pages for details. Microsoft Support
Can I force install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware? There are unofficial bypasses and community workarounds. Tech writers have tested Windows 11 on unsupported PCs with mixed results. These hacks may expose you to security or update problems and are not recommended for most users or business machines. Ars Technica+1
Final take and next step
The end of Windows 10 is real and coming soon on October 14, 2025. If you value security and staying current, run the PC Health Check now, read Microsoft’s Windows 11 specifications, and make a plan that fits your budget and timeline. If you manage multiple machines, start the inventory and budget conversation this week. The transition will be a practical test of planning, not a tech surprise. Microsoft Support+1
Quick links for action
Microsoft has information about Windows 10 end of support and migration steps at Microsoft’s end-of-support pages. Microsoft
Windows 11 specifications page for exact hardware requirements. Microsoft
Download PC Health Check and learn how to use it at Microsoft’s PC Health Check page. Microsoft Support
Guide to enabling TPM 2.0 in your PC firmware. Microsoft Support
Third-party WhyNotWin11 compatibility checker on GitHub and ReadySunValley on GitHub for more detailed breakdowns. GitHub+1
Coverage and debate about the requirements and adoption from Ars Technica and The Verge. Ars Technica+1
