Is Windows 10 Still Safe in 2026?

August 12, 2026

The short answer

Windows 10 reached its official end of support on 14 October 2025. Microsoft no longer releases security updates for it. That means any new vulnerabilities discovered after that date will not be patched, leaving your computer increasingly exposed over time.

If you are still running Windows 10, you are not in immediate danger today — but the risk grows with every passing month.

Who this applies to

This guide is for home users in the UK who are running Windows 10 on a laptop or desktop computer and are unsure whether they need to act. If you are not sure which version of Windows you have, press the Windows key + R, type winver, and press Enter. The version number will appear on screen.

Why end of support matters

When Microsoft ends support for a version of Windows, it stops releasing security patches. Hackers and cybercriminals actively look for vulnerabilities in unsupported software because they know those weaknesses will never be fixed. Over time, running an unsupported operating system becomes a significant security risk — particularly for online banking, email, and storing personal files.

This is not a scare tactic. It is the same reason you would not drive a car with known brake faults indefinitely.

Safe steps you can take right now

1. Check whether your PC can run Windows 11

Microsoft provides a free tool called PC Health Check that tells you instantly whether your computer meets the requirements for Windows 11. Download it from the official Microsoft website and run it — it takes less than a minute.

The main requirements are a 64-bit processor, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, and a security feature called TPM 2.0. Most computers made after 2018 will pass. Many older machines will not.

2. If your PC is compatible — upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 11 is a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 computers. Go to Settings > Windows Update and check whether the upgrade is available. If it is, back up your files first, then proceed with the upgrade. The process typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

3. If your PC is not compatible — consider your options

You have three realistic choices:

Purchase a new computer. A modern Windows 11 laptop suitable for home use starts from around £300 to £400. This is often the most practical long-term solution.
Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESU). Microsoft is offering paid security updates for Windows 10 until October 2026 for home users at a cost of approximately £25 per year. This buys you time but is not a permanent fix.
Switch to a Chromebook or tablet. If your main uses are browsing, email, and video calls, a Chromebook or iPad may be a simpler and more affordable alternative.

4. In the meantime, reduce your risk

If you cannot upgrade immediately, take these steps to reduce your exposure:

Keep your antivirus software up to date (Windows Defender continues to receive updates separately from the OS)
Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails or text messages
Do not use public Wi-Fi for banking or sensitive accounts
Back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage

When to stop and get professional help

Stop and seek help if:

Your PC Health Check result is unclear or shows an error
The Windows 11 upgrade fails or causes problems
You are unsure whether your data has been backed up correctly
Your computer is behaving strangely — running slowly, showing unexpected pop-ups, or crashing

Frequently asked questions

Will my Windows 10 computer stop working?

No. Windows 10 will continue to function after end of support. The risk is that it becomes less secure over time, not that it stops working immediately.

Is Windows 11 free?

Yes, for eligible Windows 10 computers. If your PC passes the compatibility check, the upgrade costs nothing.

What if I cannot afford a new computer right now?

Consider the Extended Security Updates option to buy yourself time, reduce your online activity on the device, and start saving for a replacement. A refurbished Windows 11 laptop from a reputable retailer can be a cost-effective option from around £150 to £200.

Is Windows 10 safe for another year?

It depends on how you use it. For light, offline use it carries lower risk. For online banking, email, and storing sensitive files, the risk increases meaningfully with each month that passes without security updates.

Do I need to pay someone to upgrade to Windows 11?

Not necessarily. If your PC is compatible, the upgrade process is straightforward and free. However, if you are not confident doing it yourself, a professional can complete it quickly and ensure your files are safe throughout.

Want the complete walkthrough?

Download the Windows 10 to 11 Upgrade Workbook — a step-by-step guide with compatibility checks, backup preparation, an upgrade checklist, screenshots, and troubleshooting steps.

Instant download — £7.99

Prefer someone to check it for you? Book a Bytova Windows Safety & Upgrade Check for £19.99.