Windows 11 Replaces Windows 10

Microsoft will be retiring support for Windows 10. After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide security fixes, technical assistance, orsoftware updates for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11 sooner rather than later to get the hang of things. 

The following includes information provided by Microsoft.

  • Even more secure by default: Modernizing to Windows 11 provides a secure environment with advanced security features like TPM 2.0, virtualization-based security, and the vulnerable driver block list enabled by default, as well as Smart App Control which is available on new installations of Windows 11 on any PC.
  • Trusted Windows experience: Windows 11 maintains a familiar user experience from Windows 10, with a consistent layout and functionality, while introducing a more modern and streamlined UI design. Key elements like the Start menu and taskbar have been updated for a cleaner look but the overall navigation and usability remain intuitive and user-friendly, like Windows 10.
  • Optimized for speed and efficiency: Enhanced response time when in sleep mode, faster web browsing, intuitive navigation and improved, updated fundamentals all contribute to better performance on Windows 11.
  • Better multitasking: Features like Snap Layouts and Multiple desktops help you stay organized and productive. With Snap Layouts, you can organize your open windows and optimize your screen space, making multitasking easier and more efficient. Multiple desktops are great for keeping unrelated, ongoing projects organized — or for quickly switching desktops before a meeting.
  • Built-in accessibility features: Windows 11 is the most inclusively designed and most accessible version of Windows yet. Windows 11 includes a host of accessibility improvements designed for and with people with disabilities: calmer, more appealing sound schemes, beautiful new contrast themes and closed caption customizations, and a more responsive and flexible experience for working with assistive technologies.
  • Designed with energy efficiency in mind: Featuring energy saver capabilities and carbon-aware Windows Updates.

Advanced security features include hardware-based protection through TPM 2.0, enhanced authentication methods and virtualization-based security fully enabled by default. Windows 11 also includes phishing protection, offering robust defense mechanisms, and provides an extra layer of security against common and persistent cyberattacks, like attempts to compromise login credentials or install malware.

  • Microsoft Pluton security processor: Designed by Microsoft and our silicon partners, Pluton is embedded in the PC’s processor, enhancing many Windows 11PCs with protection for user identity, data and apps accompanied by reliable updates from Microsoft distributed with safe deployment best practices.
  • Hardware and software integration: Features like secure boot, virtualization-based security, memory integrity, Secured-core PC, the vulnerable driver block list, Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security, and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) defaults contribute to the additional security as compared with Windows 10 devices.
  • A safer app experience:Smart App Control in Windows 11 enhances security by automatically blocking untrusted or potentially harmful applications, ensuring a safer and more reliable computing experience. This proactive feature helps protect you from malware and other threats without compromising performance.

  • Check if your Windows 10 PC is eligible to upgrade for free to Windows 11 by selecting the Start button, then going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • To take advantage of the enhanced security Windows 11 provides, some customers may need a new PC. You can learn more about Windows 11 system requirements on Microsoft's web page.
  • Windows 10 PCs will receive new in-product notifications to educate you about Windows 10 End of Support coming in October 2025. You will be able to learn more about options available and actions you can take to prepare for the move to Windows 11.

If you determine you need a new Windows 11 PC, there are tools available to help you prepare for your next device:

  • OneDrive enables offline file access and the ability to work with synced files in File Explorer, automatically updating once you’re online again.
  • SharePoint creates a secure place to store shared files online to collaborate with others before, during, and after the retirement of Windows 10.