Technology guide

Decide what to do with an ageing Windows 10 PC

Work out whether to upgrade, extend, replace or retire a Windows 10 computer, and keep your files and accounts safe whichever option you choose.

Estimated time: 30–60 minutesUpdated: 28 September 2026

Use this guide if your computer still runs Windows 10, which Microsoft stopped supporting in October 2025 apart from a time-limited extended security update scheme. You need access to the computer, your Microsoft account details and somewhere to back up files.

Step by step

  1. Check your version and hardware

    Open Settings, then System and About, to see your Windows edition and hardware. In Windows Update, see whether the PC is offered Windows 11 or told it does not meet the requirements.

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