Are you still Using Windows 10?

[Jeff Weaver]

If you are here's a few tips:

Support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025 (less than a month away).

1 -- You should create a bootable USB stick with the Windows 10 Installation image on it.  I'm pretty sure that you will not be able to do this on October 15, 2025 and you may need it to correct issues that may come up with Windows 10.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

You need an 8 GB or larger USB drive.  You could burn it to a DVD but that will be a little more difficult.

2 -- There is a plan that you can sign up for support.  It is $30 for one year.  I think the cost doubles each year ($60 = year two, $120 = year three).  I don't expect it to be offered any more than three years.

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/whats-new/extended-security-updates

3 -- Make sure to update windows on October 14, 2025

4 -- If you plan to remain on Windows 10 make sure your antivirus continues to update.   Once you cannot get a new antivirus signature you need to disconnect from the internet.  I expect Defender (the antivirus that comes with Windows) to not update without the extended support after October 14, 2025.

Zero Day Attacks -- These are attacks that are new or newly discovered vulnerabilities in your operating systems.  As time goes on if you stay on Windows 10 you will have less and less protection against this kind of thing.  

Here's some advice:  (It's good for anyone, however, it is more important if you stay on Windows 10 after October 14, 2025.)

-- Don't click on links in emails.

-- Don't download software from unknown sources.  Stick to places like the Microsoft Store.

-- Once your antivirus stops supporting Windows 10 you need to either upgrade or disconnect your computer from the Internet.

If you want to upgrade to Windows 11 it is usually free if your computer supports it.  There have been some hacks to get Windows 11 to install on hardware that isn't supported.  I would equate that to trying to drive a horse and buggy on the freeway (if it was legal).  It will be a very bad experience and I wouldn't recommend it.  Usually when you run Windows with the minimum hardware requirements you will not get a very good experience so why would you settle for less than that?

If your computer meets the minimum requirements and you can upgrade, I recommend you do that now.  You can roll back to Windows 10 within 30 days of upgrading (right now you would have to do that on or before October 14, 2025).

Make sure you are backing up your data.

Let me know if you have any questions,

Jeff A Weaver