Windows 10 officially hit end-of-life in October 2025, and by mid-2026 the cracks are showing. No more security patches, growing app incompatibility, and a steady drumbeat of malware specifically targeting unpatched machines. If you're still on Windows 10, here's how to handle it the right way.
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (If Your PC Supports It)
If your machine meets the requirements — TPM 2.0, 8th-gen Intel or Ryzen 2000+, 4GB+ RAM, and 64GB storage — the free upgrade path is still open. We strongly recommend a clean install rather than an in-place upgrade to avoid years of accumulated registry junk and driver conflicts.
Option 2: Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft is offering paid ESU for consumers through October 2026. It's a stopgap, not a solution — you'll pay annually for security patches only, with no new features or quality fixes. Fine for a few more months; not a long-term plan.
Option 3: Replace the PC
If your hardware is more than 6–7 years old, replacement usually makes more sense than upgrading. Modern CPUs sip power, SSDs are dirt cheap, and a fresh Windows 11 build will feel dramatically faster — even on entry-level hardware.
Option 4: Switch to Linux
For older hardware that still has life left, a lightweight Linux distro (Linux Mint, Fedora, Pop!_OS) breathes new life into machines Microsoft has abandoned. Great for browsing, email, and basic productivity.
What NOT to Do
- Don't ignore it. Unpatched OSes are the #1 target for ransomware in 2026.
- Don't trust "free upgrade" scams popping up in browsers or emails — they're malware.
- Don't skip the backup before any OS upgrade or reinstall.
We Can Handle It For You
Keystone Labs can help assess Windows 11 compatibility and scope data backup, installation, application setup and settings transfer. Timing depends on the computer and work required. We'll also tell you honestly if your PC is worth upgrading or if a new build makes more sense. Book a service or call 412-910-5361.