Many of us have perfectly good Windows 10 laptops that won’t upgrade to Windows 11 due to a missing TPM 2.0 chip. I know what you’re thinking: can I still use my old laptop after Microsoft ends support on October 14th, 2025? The simple answer is yes, but you have to be careful. Microsoft will still offer some options for you to stay secure.
Table of Contents
Microsoft will provide a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10 users. This program will provide critical and important security updates for a year for around $30 (about £23). Microsoft has also offered free security updates for 12 months if you activate Windows Backup, which some people view as a “blatant trick” to push for OneDrive storage.
💡 What Are Your Alternatives to Windows?
If you don’t want to pay for extended support, you can still use your Windows 10 PC for offline tasks. However, it’s not safe to use it online, as you won’t be protected from new security flaws. But with hundreds of millions of people still using Windows 10, it’s likely Microsoft would release a free fix for any critical flaws to avoid bad publicity. We should stay informed and keep our devices safe.
🐧 Considering Linux?
Another great option is to install another operating system, like Linux. You can easily try out a Linux distro by creating a bootable USB drive. Just be sure to have your BitLocker recovery key handy, especially if you’re using Windows 10 Pro, as booting from another OS can trigger a security check. This is a security measure, and having your key ready is important.
The Problem with Windows 10. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Will It Be Safe to Use a Windows 10 Laptop with My TV? Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Microsoft to stop adding new 365 tools for Windows 10 in 2026. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Microsoft extending Windows 10 support is a ‘blatant trick’. Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Why my DAB radio’s batteries drain so fast? Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
Booting Linux with Windows? You need a BitLocker key! Computeractive – Issue 715, 30 July-12 August 2025.
More Topics
- Android 16: An Early Adopter’s Warning
- Unlock Gemini’s Full Potential on Your Android
- RingConn Gen 2 Air Review: A Top Smart Ring Without the Subscription?
- OnePlus Pad 3 Review: Flagship Tablet Power at a Mid-Range Price?
- Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2 Review: The Ultimate £169 Budget Tablet?
- Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Review: Is This the New King of Fitness Trackers?
- Redmagic 10S Pro Review: The Ultimate Gaming Phone Without the Pro Price?
