On 14 October 2025, Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10. Your PC keeps working, but it no longer receives the monthly security updates that close newly discovered vulnerabilities. Over time, that turns a working machine into an easy target. The good news: you have several safe, affordable ways forward, and you do not need to panic-buy a new computer.
On 14 October 2025, Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10. Your PC keeps working, but it no longer receives the monthly security updates that close newly discovered vulnerabilities. Over time, that turns a working machine into an easy target. The good news: you have several safe, affordable ways forward, and you do not need to panic-buy a new computer.
If your PC meets the Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, supported CPU), upgrading is the cheapest and safest move. You keep your hardware, your files and most of your settings. A genuine Windows 11 license activates the upgrade and unlocks all updates again.
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for consumers – paid security-only patches that bridge a transition period. It is a stopgap: it keeps you safe for a limited window while you plan a proper move to Windows 11, not a permanent solution.
If your CPU is unsupported and you do not want to work around the requirements, a new machine with Windows 11 pre-installed is the clean route. You can still save by buying just the license if you build or refurbish a PC yourself.
| Path | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to Windows 11 | License only | Most users with a 2018+ PC |
| ESU security updates | Per-year fee | Buying a few months of time |
| New Windows 11 PC | Highest | Old/unsupported hardware |
For the vast majority of users, upgrading the existing PC to Windows 11 with a genuine license is the smartest choice: safe, cheap and quick. ESU only makes sense as a short bridge, and a new PC is reserved for genuinely old hardware.
At KeyVano you can buy genuine software licenses across the DACH region: Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The licenses are valid internationally and are not tied to any country – you get the same prices, the same instant delivery by email and the same support everywhere. Whether you order from Vienna, Zurich, Berlin or anywhere else, the process is identical and free of country-specific restrictions.
No. It keeps running normally. It simply stops receiving security updates, which makes it increasingly risky to use online over time.
The upgrade process is built in, but it requires a valid Windows license. If your Windows 10 was genuine, a Windows 11 license activates the upgrade and restores all updates.
Yes. An in-place upgrade keeps your files, apps and most settings. Always make a backup first as a safety net.
Extended Security Updates are paid, security-only patches Microsoft offers as a temporary bridge for PCs that stay on Windows 10 a little longer.
Yes. KeyVano delivers software licenses to Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Delivery is instant by email everywhere, prices are the same for all countries, and the license keys work worldwide without regional locks.