Is Windows 10 Still Supported and What That Means for You
Windows 10's standard support ended on October 14, 2025. Eligible PCs enrolled in Extended Security Updates (ESU) can still receive specified security fixes. This article was checked in October 2026; your edition, release and ESU enrollment determine what updates you receive.
Is Windows 10 still receiving updates right now?
Windows 10 no longer receives regular feature development or standard support. Version 22H2 was its final feature release. Security updates after the standard support deadline require an applicable ESU entitlement, except for editions such as LTSC that have their own lifecycle. Check the exact product rather than assuming every Windows 10 installation has the same deadline.
What happens when Windows 10 support ends?
The October 14, 2025 deadline has already passed. A PC continues to run, but a standard Windows 10 installation without ESU no longer receives routine operating-system security fixes. ESU provides a limited extension for eligible devices; it does not restore feature updates or full technical support. Microsoft's current consumer guidance lists protection through October 12, 2027. Commercial ESU and LTSC editions have separate terms and dates.
Why does Windows 10 support status matter for me?
Support status affects whether newly discovered operating-system vulnerabilities receive fixes. Antivirus, careful browsing and backups remain useful, but they do not repair missing Windows security patches. Applications and peripherals have their own support policies, so check the software and hardware you actually rely on rather than assuming they will all stop working together.
How can I find out if my Windows 10 version is still supported?
Press Windows + R, enter winver and note the version and edition. You can also check Settings > System > About. For ordinary Home and Pro installations, having 22H2 alone no longer means you are supported: check your ESU enrollment in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. For Enterprise LTSC or IoT editions, consult the lifecycle for that exact product.
What are my options if Windows 10 is no longer supported?
Check whether your PC qualifies for a supported Windows 11 release, and confirm that your essential applications and peripherals work with it. If you need a transition period, review the appropriate consumer or organizational ESU program and its eligibility rules. A replacement PC or another maintained operating system can also be an option after checking compatibility and backing up your data.
What should I do right now to stay secure on Windows 10?
Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, install available updates and check ESU enrollment if you intend to remain on Windows 10. Keep separate, recoverable backups and update your applications and security software. Plan the migration around the tools you need. If a work or school organization manages the device, ask its IT team about its update and migration policy.
Conclusion
Windows 10's standard support has ended. Decide whether your installation has an applicable ESU or edition-specific support entitlement, and arrange a move to a maintained system. Do not treat continued activation, working applications or an antivirus subscription as evidence that Windows itself is still receiving security patches.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Microsoft stop supporting Windows 10?
Standard support ended on October 14, 2025. ESU enrollment and certain separately serviced editions can provide updates beyond that date under their own terms.
Can I still get security updates for Windows 10 now?
Eligible installations can receive applicable security fixes through ESU. Check enrollment and update status; an ordinary Windows 10 installation is no longer automatically covered.
How do I check which version of Windows 10 I have?
Type "winver" into the search box or Run dialog and press Enter. A window will show your Windows 10 version and build number.
What happens if I keep using Windows 10 after support ends?
The computer can continue working. Without an applicable support entitlement and installed security updates, vulnerabilities may remain unpatched. ESU is a temporary transition option, and individual application vendors set their own compatibility timelines.
Is upgrading to Windows 11 the only option after Windows 10 support ends?
No. You can consider eligible ESU coverage while planning a migration, a new PC, or another maintained operating system that supports your required applications and hardware. Extra security software alone does not replace operating-system updates.