
Microsoft will disable support for Windows 10 in October 2025 - what does this mean for you? Your computer will continue to work, but without security updates it will become vulnerable to attacks, so you should already consider whether to stay with the older system or choose Windows 11. Learn the differences between the systems and make the right decision before it's too late.
Windows 10 or 11 - time to decide
October 14, 2025 - this date Microsoft has set as the end of support for Windows 10. After that date, you will no longer receive any patches or new features. Your computer will indeed turn on as usual, but you will be more vulnerable to hackers.
Do you have to rush to install Windows 11? Fortunately, no. You have until October to plan everything calmly. The new version of the system runs more efficiently and securely, but it also needs more powerful hardware.
What about your favorite programs? Microsoft has made sure that almost all apps from Windows 10 also work on the newer version. But before you decide to switch, make sure your computer meets the technical requirements of Windows 11. Not every device can handle the new system.
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 - technical requirements
Wondering if your computer can handle Windows 11? Microsoft has raised the bar a bit compared to "10". Here's what you need:
- 1 GHz processor with at least 2 cores (64-bit);
- 4 GB of RAM;
- 64 GB of disk space;
- DirectX 12-compatible graphics card;
- HD (720p) display.
Windows 11 has introduced a mandatory requirement for a TPM 2.0 module - the chip responsible for system security. In the older version of Windows it was an additional option, but now it has become essential. Fortunately, you will find TPM in most computers made after 2018.
How to check your PC's readiness for Windows 11? Microsoft has prepared a PC Health Check tool, which will immediately indicate which parts of your hardware need to be updated.
Rest assured - if your computer fails the compatibility test, you have until October to buy a new one or upgrade your current one.
Windows 11 vs 10 - new interface
Your first contact with Windows 11 may surprise you. The Start menu and program icons have moved from their traditional place on the left to the center of the taskbar. All windows now have rounded corners. You'll also find widgets on the taskbar that you can customize according to your preferences, including:
- A calendar with upcoming events;
- Current weather at your location;
- stock quotes;
- personalized messages;
- OneDrive photos.
The classic ribbon in File Explorer has been replaced by a new, simplified interface with the most important options. The buttons are larger and easier to read, which you will appreciate especially on touch screens.
Microsoft has also ensured better integration with apps. Teams now works directly from the taskbar, and the revamped Microsoft Store makes it easier to find programs. The system handles multiple monitors more efficiently - most notably, it remembers window layouts for different display configurations.
Windows 11 - is it worth it?
Will Windows 11 actually improve your daily work? The new system introduces a number of changes that you will notice especially when gaming and working remotely.
In games, Windows 11 and Windows 10 perform similarly. Thanks to DirectStorage, games load instantly, as the SSD works directly with the graphics card. Auto HDR, on the other hand, gives old titles more vivid and realistic colors. You'll find these features in both older and newer versions of the system - in "eleven" they are simply enabled by default and better optimized.
Once Teams is integrated into the system, you can manage conversations right from the taskbar, without additional applications. When you work on a laptop, the system will remember the window layout and automatically restore it when you connect an external monitor.
With the new Snap Layouts you can quickly split the screen between several applications. When you hover your cursor over the maximize button, you'll see ready-made templates. This is especially useful when:
- You work with a lot of documents;
- you compare the data;
- You watch the broadcast while working;
- You copy content between programs;
- you check social media.
Windows 11 - opinions
How does Windows 11 perform more than three years after its release? Users confirm that the system runs stably, rarely crashes and, on top of that, boots faster than "10." Microsoft has optimized cooperation with the latest Intel Core processors, on which the system uses its full capabilities.
However, not everyone is thrilled with the new system. The biggest complaint is about the taskbar - you can't move it to the sides of the screen or resize the icons. Microsoft has said it will restore these options in future updates, but for now has not yet revealed a specific date for the fix.
Microsoft has completely overhauled its app store. The new interface allows you to quickly find the programs you need, and thanks to a partnership with Amazon, mobile apps have also been added to the store.
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 - security
Windows 11 has introduced quite a few security changes. The most important is the TPM 2.0 module, which encrypts the data on the drive - even if the laptop is stolen, no one can get to it.
In addition, the new system handles viruses better. When you try to install something from outside the official store, it first checks whether the program is safe. Suspicious applications are blocked right away.
Security patches now install in the background - you can work quietly while the system takes care of the updates itself. This is a big change from the older version of Windows, where you often had to interrupt your work and restart your computer.
With the updates, Microsoft has also improved Windows Hello, which does a better job with facial and fingerprint recognition. Working with TPM further makes it more difficult to fool the system.
Currently, Microsoft is mainly focused on the development of Windows 11. In less than a year, support for "ten" will end and only the newer version will get security updates.
Windows 10 or 11 - time to decide
If your computer is less than 4-5 years old, it can probably handle Windows 11 without a problem. The system runs smoothly on 8th generation Intel Core processors and later, as well as AMD Ryzen 2000 and later.
Remember about software, too - Windows 11 works best with the latest versions of Office. You still have some time until the end of Windows 10 support in 2025, but it's a good idea to prepare for the upcoming changes already. So check out our Windows 11 and Office offerings!
FAQ - frequently asked questions
- Do I need to upgrade to Windows 11?
Technically you don't have to, but after October 2025 Windows 10 will stop receiving security updates. And using an unprotected system exposes your data to hackers.
- What will happen to my files and programs when I move to Windows 11?
During the update, all your files and most of your programs will remain in place. Microsoft has taken care of backward compatibility of applications. Still, it's a good idea to back up your data before changing your system.
- Can I go back to Windows 10 if Windows 11 doesn't suit me?
Yes, for 10 days after the upgrade you can seamlessly return to Windows 10. After this time, you will need a clean installation of the system.
- How much does it cost to upgrade to Windows 11?
If you have an original Windows 10 license, upgrading to Windows 11 is free. You just need to verify that your hardware meets the technical requirements of the new system.
- How long does it take to install Windows 11?
The installation process itself takes about an hour, depending on the speed of your computer and internet. It's worth reserving extra time to configure your system and restore your personal settings.