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Should you upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? For most people with a compatible computer, the answer is now yes. Windows 10 will continue to switch on and run, but its standard support has ended, making Windows 11 the safer long-term choice.
That does not mean every Windows 10 computer needs replacing immediately. Some older machines still perform perfectly well, and Microsoft now offers an Extended Security Updates programme for people who need more time. The right decision depends on your computer’s compatibility, the software you use and whether you are prepared for some changes to the familiar Windows interface.
The short answer
You should upgrade to Windows 11 if your computer officially supports it and you rely on the machine for banking, shopping, work, email or other online activities.
You may want to remain on Windows 10 temporarily if essential software or hardware does not work correctly with Windows 11. However, you should enrol in Extended Security Updates rather than continue using an entirely unpatched system.
| Your situation | Best option |
|---|---|
| Your PC passes Microsoft’s compatibility check | Upgrade to Windows 11 |
| You use the PC for banking, shopping or work | Upgrade as soon as practical |
| You rely on specialist older software | Test compatibility before upgrading |
| Your PC is unsupported but still works well | Use Windows 10 ESU while planning your next move |
| Your computer is slow even on Windows 10 | Consider replacing it instead of forcing Windows 11 |
| The PC is permanently offline | Windows 10 may remain usable, but keep reliable backups |
What happened to Windows 10 support?
Standard support for Windows 10 ended on 14 October 2025. The operating system did not stop working on that date, and Microsoft did not remotely disable anyone’s computer. What ended was the normal supply of free security fixes, software updates and technical assistance.
A computer without current security patches becomes more vulnerable over time. New weaknesses can be discovered after support ends, while attackers continue developing malware designed to exploit unprotected systems. Antivirus software is still useful, but it cannot replace security fixes for the operating system itself.
Microsoft recommends moving eligible computers to Windows 11. The upgrade remains free for compatible computers running Windows 10 version 22H2. You can check for it through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Microsoft confirms the support dates and free upgrade conditions here.
Windows 10 Extended Security Updates provide more time
If you cannot move immediately, Microsoft’s consumer Extended Security Updates programme can keep an eligible personal Windows 10 computer receiving critical and important security updates until 12 October 2027.
At the time of writing, Microsoft offers three enrolment methods:
- Sync your PC settings at no additional cost.
- Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
- Make a one-time payment of $30 or the equivalent in your local currency, plus any applicable tax.
Options and availability can vary by region. Enrolment requires an eligible personal computer running Windows 10 version 22H2 and a Microsoft account.
ESU is useful, but it should be viewed as a transition period rather than a permanent extension of Windows 10. It does not include new features, general technical support or most non-security improvements. Microsoft explains the current consumer ESU programme here.
The strongest reason to upgrade is security
Windows 11 is not automatically faster or easier to use in every situation. The clearest reason to upgrade is that it remains actively supported.
Windows 11 also establishes a newer security baseline. Its requirements include TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capability, which help protect important credentials and detect certain attempts to interfere with the startup process.
These protections cannot prevent every infection or scam. You still need strong passwords, sensible browsing habits and current software. Nevertheless, running a supported operating system removes a major and unnecessary weakness.
This matters most if you use the computer for:
- Online banking and payments
- Email and social media
- Business or customer information
- Shopping and saved payment details
- Password management
- Remote access
- Personal photographs and documents
For a main computer that regularly connects to the internet, staying indefinitely on an unprotected version of Windows is difficult to justify.
Is Windows 11 actually better to use?
Windows 11 has matured considerably since its original release. Its interface remains recognisably Windows, even though several areas have been redesigned.
The most noticeable difference is the centred Start button and taskbar icons. If you prefer the traditional layout, the taskbar icons can be moved back to the left. The Start menu itself is simpler than the Windows 10 version, although some people will miss Live Tiles and the ability to organise it in exactly the same way.
Windows 11 also includes useful improvements such as:
- Snap Layouts for arranging several windows
- Tabs in File Explorer
- Improved handling of multiple monitors
- A redesigned Settings application
- Better virtual desktop controls
- Updated accessibility tools
- Ongoing support for newer processors and devices
- Newer security and gaming features
None of these changes transforms basic tasks such as browsing or writing documents. If Windows 10 already does everything you need, Windows 11 may initially feel more like a redesign than a major upgrade. Its real advantage is that it provides a supported platform for future software, drivers and hardware.
Will Windows 11 make your computer faster?
Do not upgrade solely because you expect a dramatic performance improvement.
On a healthy, compatible computer, everyday performance is usually similar. Startup time, application speed and responsiveness depend heavily on the processor, available memory, background programs and whether the computer uses an SSD or an older mechanical hard drive.
A computer with only 4GB of RAM may technically meet the minimum memory requirement, but that does not guarantee a pleasant experience. For comfortable everyday use, 8GB should be treated as the practical minimum. I would choose 16GB when buying a new computer, particularly if you keep many browser tabs open or intend to keep the machine for several years.
An SSD also makes a much larger difference than changing the visual design of Windows. If a compatible computer still uses a mechanical hard drive, replacing that drive with an SSD may improve responsiveness considerably.
What about gaming?
Most games that work on Windows 10 also work on Windows 11. Performance differences normally depend on the individual game, graphics driver and hardware rather than the operating system alone.
Windows 11 supports technologies such as Auto HDR and DirectStorage. However, the presence of these features does not guarantee higher frame rates. DirectStorage benefits depend on compatible hardware and game support, while Auto HDR is mainly relevant to suitable HDR displays.
Owners of newer gaming computers should generally move to Windows 11 for continuing driver support and future compatibility. Players using older games, specialist controllers or modified software should check for known compatibility problems first.
Reasons you might delay the upgrade
Windows 11 is the sensible destination for most users, but there are legitimate reasons to wait.
An essential program does not support Windows 11
Older accounting software, specialist business programs and hardware management utilities may depend on outdated drivers or Windows components. Check with the software developer before upgrading.
You use an old printer, scanner or audio device
A device can work perfectly under Windows 10 but lack a reliable Windows 11 driver. Search the manufacturer’s support page using the exact model number.
Your PC only just meets the minimum requirements
Passing the compatibility test does not guarantee excellent performance. A low-powered computer with 4GB of RAM and limited storage may feel cramped after the upgrade.
Your current installation is unstable
If Windows 10 already crashes, reports storage errors or contains malware, upgrading over the existing installation may carry those problems into Windows 11. Repair the underlying issue or consider a clean installation.
Windows 11 minimum system requirements
Microsoft lists the following main requirements:
| Component | Minimum requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Compatible 64-bit processor, 1GHz or faster, with at least two cores |
| Memory | 4GB RAM |
| Storage | At least 64GB |
| System firmware | UEFI with Secure Boot capability |
| Security | TPM 2.0 |
| Graphics | DirectX 12 compatible graphics with a suitable driver |
| Display | More than 9 inches with at least 720p resolution |
| Setup | Internet access and a Microsoft account are required for personal setup of Home and Pro editions |
The processor must be officially supported; clock speed and core count alone are not enough. The complete official requirements are available from Microsoft.
The easiest way to check is with Microsoft’s PC Health Check application. It identifies whether the computer is eligible and should explain which requirement is preventing an upgrade.
Before buying a replacement computer, also inspect the BIOS or UEFI settings. Some compatible PCs are rejected simply because TPM or Secure Boot has been disabled. Do not change unfamiliar firmware settings without checking the instructions for your particular computer.
Should you install Windows 11 on an unsupported PC?
It is technically possible to bypass some of Microsoft’s requirements, but I would not recommend doing so on your main computer.
An unsupported installation may work, particularly on a reasonably powerful older machine. The problem is uncertainty. You may encounter driver problems, compatibility warnings or difficulties with future updates. It also removes the reassurance that Microsoft and the computer manufacturer have approved the configuration.
If your computer is unsupported, the safer choices are:
- Check whether TPM and Secure Boot simply need enabling.
- Enrol in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates.
- Plan to replace the computer before ESU ends.
- Consider a supported alternative operating system if your applications allow it.
Do not purchase a random TPM module without checking your motherboard. TPM modules are not universal, and buying the wrong one will not make an unsupported processor eligible.
The one product worth buying before upgrading
You do not need to purchase Windows 11 if your existing Windows 10 licence qualifies for the free upgrade. However, buying a dependable backup drive can be worthwhile.
A portable SSD such as the Samsung T7 Shield 1TB provides enough space for many people’s documents, photographs, videos and other important files. It can also remain useful for regular backups after the upgrade is complete.
The T7 Shield is not essential. If you already own an external drive with sufficient free space, use that instead. The important point is to have a separate copy of anything you cannot replace.
Check the Samsung T7 Shield 1TB on Amazon
Before starting the upgrade, copy your important folders to the drive and open several files directly from it. Seeing filenames on the drive is not enough; checking a few files confirms that the backup can actually be read.
Microsoft also recommends backing up before installation, even though files are normally carried across during an in-place upgrade. Its preparation guide explains the recommended process.
How to upgrade safely
1. Check compatibility
Run PC Health Check and confirm that your processor, TPM, Secure Boot and other hardware are supported.
2. Install pending Windows 10 updates
Open Windows Update, install everything available and restart the computer. Check once more after restarting.
3. Back up important files
Copy your documents, photographs, videos, browser exports and project files to an external drive or a trusted cloud service.
4. Check essential programs and equipment
Confirm that your printer, scanner, VPN, security software and specialist applications support Windows 11.
5. Make sure there is sufficient free storage
Remove unnecessary temporary files and unused applications. Do not begin with the system drive nearly full.
6. Keep the computer connected to power
A laptop should remain plugged in throughout the installation. Avoid upgrading during unstable power or internet conditions.
7. Use Windows Update
For most users, the safest method is the upgrade offered through Windows Update because Microsoft checks the device before presenting it.
8. Test everything after installation
Check sound, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, printers, external displays and important applications. Install Windows 11 updates and any driver updates offered by the computer manufacturer.
Microsoft normally gives you ten days to return to Windows 10 while keeping the files transferred during the upgrade. Do not delete the Windows.old folder or run aggressive storage-cleaning tools until you are confident that Windows 11 works correctly. Microsoft confirms the ten-day rollback period.
Final verdict: should you leave Windows 10?
If your computer officially supports Windows 11, you should upgrade. Windows 10’s familiar interface is no longer a strong enough reason to miss current operating-system security updates.
Windows 11 is not perfect. Some controls have moved, parts of the interface require more clicks and an older computer will not suddenly become faster. Nevertheless, it is now the more responsible choice for a compatible PC used online.
If the computer is unsupported, there is no need to panic or immediately throw away a machine that still works. Enrol in Windows 10 Extended Security Updates, maintain reliable backups and use the remaining support period to decide whether to upgrade the hardware, replace the computer or move to another supported operating system.
The decision is therefore straightforward: upgrade a compatible PC, protect an incompatible PC with ESU and avoid using unpatched Windows 10 indefinitely.
