What Does the End of Windows 10 Mean for Your PC?

As we bid farewell to Windows 10 you might be panicking about what that means for you and your PC. Does everything just stop working the minute Microsoft unceremoniously drop the support? Of course not, for a while you probably won’t even notice a difference but after 14th October 2025 you will no longer receive the essential security updates which obviously puts your device at risk. Another annoying aspect is that many of the third party developers stop providing updates for operating software that is no longer supported – basically, over time your device will no longer be able to function as it once did.

So, what are the options?

• Update to Windows 11
  If your system supports it then you can install Windows 11 for free – check to see if your system meets the minimum requirements by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update. Make sure you backup your computer before you install any updates!

 

• Update Outdated Components
  Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0) chip. You could upgrade your PC to include a TPM 2.0 chip but doing so may actually require a new motherboard etc and should probably only be considered if you have the skills or an IT specialist on hand.

 

• Pay to Extend your Windows 10 Licence for 1 Year
  This is really only a short term solution until you have to invest in a new PC but it can buy you a bit of time while you research your options. Microsoft have said this will cost $30 (USD) for individuals and will be available in November 2025. Businesses can already purchase the extended security update through the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program, at $61 USD per device for Year One. Find out more here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates

 

• Buy a new PC
  If you’re thinking of buying a new computer then now might be a good time rather than investing in legacy technology. Use a trusted technician  to help guide you on the best options to suit your needs rather than buying the first shiny PC you see in store. To invest in a new PC, take some time to evaluate what your needs are before you begin the search. This will help you narrow down to a few options and ensure you get a machine that will serve you well. 

 

• What will the main use of the PC be? Gaming would require a top notch graphics card and you’d probably need a separate tower/monitor setup. If you would mainly be using your PC for browsing the internet and writing emails then an all in one or laptop could be a nice, sleek alternative.

 

• How many people will use the PC? If you need a family workhorse that can do everything from office tasks and design work to gaming and online shopping then an all singing all dancing tower and monitor will fit the bill.

​Whatever your requirements, there is the perfect solution out there for you and File Genie are on hand to offer advice and support. They can even source the parts and build your dream machine for you!

Get in touch and talk us through your needs.