What version of Windows 10 is outdated?

Microsoft lists October 14, 2025 as the retirement date for Windows 10 Home and Pro (basically, all consumer versions of Windows 10). Some users will certainly replace their devices with new ones, which will likely include Windows 11 or are at least compatible with the new operating system.

How long will Windows 10 21H2 be supported?

For example, the current 21H2 version of Windows 10 will only be supported until June 13, 2023, by which date you'll need to be upgraded to the next release to continue receiving support. The rule of thumb here is that current versions of Windows Home and Pro are supported for 18 months(Opens in a new window).

What happens when Windows 10 is no longer supported?

If you continue to use an unsupported version of Windows, your PC will still work, but it will become more vulnerable to security risks and viruses. Your PC will continue to start and run, but you will no longer receive software updates, including security updates, from Microsoft.

What is the oldest supported Windows 10 version?

Windows 10 Version 1507 (build 10.0. 10240), codenamed "Threshold 1", is the first release of Windows 10.

Which Windows 10 version is best?

The main difference between Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro is the security of the operating system. Windows 10 Pro is a safer choice when it comes to protecting your PC and securing your information.

What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?

What is the difference between Windows 10 1909 and 20H2?

Not much in the way of major new features, which is a relief. As with last year's Windows 10 version 1909 release, Windows 10 version 20H2 is a minor refinement of its predecessor, with six additional months of bug and security fixes and just a handful of functional improvements.

Can I still use Windows 10 after 2025?

Windows 10, Windows 11 -- as long as you're paying Microsoft for subscriptions, it's all the same. Though Microsoft released the new Windows 11 2022 Update to consumers today, there's no obligation to upgrade. Microsoft will continue to support Windows 10 through October 2025, company executives said.

Is upgrading to Windows 11 worth it?

Improved gaming features

If you want the best Windows OS for gaming, Windows 11 is for you. Recent Windows 11 updates included optimizations for running games in windowed mode, and it supports features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage — an upcoming feature that helps games load in less than one second.

Will Windows 11 be a free upgrade?

How much does it cost to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? It's free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running the most current version of Windows 10 and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. You can check to see if you have the latest updates for Windows 10 in Settings/Windows Update.

Is it okay to update to Windows 10 version 21H2?

Windows 10, version 21H2 is designated for broad deployment. As always, we recommend that you update your devices to the latest version of Windows 10 as soon as possible to ensure that you can take advantage of the latest features and advanced protections from the latest security threats.

Is it worth upgrading to Windows 10 21H2?

Yes, Windows 10 21H2 is totally safe. When this update was released on November 16, it was confirmed and signed as safe, stable, and ready to install on devices that have 20H2, 2004, and 21H1.

Is Windows 10 21H2 a major update?

Windows 10, version 21H2 is the next feature update. This article lists the new and updated features IT Pros should know. Windows 10, version 21H2 is also known as the Windows 10 November 2021 Update. It includes all features and fixes in previous cumulative updates to Windows 10, version 21H1.

How do I Update outdated Windows 10?

If you want to install the update now, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update , and then select Check for updates. If updates are available, install them.

Is 20H2 the last version of Windows 10?

The Home and Pro editions of Windows 10, version 20H2 have reached end of servicing. The May 2022 security update, released on May 10, was the last update available for these versions.

How do I Update Windows 10 when it expires?

If your device is on an expiring build, you'll start getting notifications letting you know that you need to update. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for Updates to get the latest update available in your channel.

What is the downside to upgrading to Windows 11?

Although Windows 11's taskbar looks impressive, it can be considered a downgrade for various reasons. Users may not be able to shift the taskbar to any part of the screen like Windows 10. Instead, it's fixed at the bottom of the screen. One of the most critical drawbacks of Windows 11 is that you can't run it.

Is there a big difference between Windows 10 and 11?

Windows 11 and Windows 10 operating systems share many similarities, there are some big differences. The newer version offers a more Mac-like aesthetic and more productivity features -- plus the chance to finally use Android apps on your computer with Windows 11.

How long will Windows 11 upgrade be free?

This end date will be no sooner than October 5, 2022. A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the above statement represents Microsoft's plans for the free Windows 11 upgrade offer.

How much does a Windows 11 cost?

Before anything else, the major difference between Windows 11 Home and Pro is pricing. If you want to buy a license by itself, the Windows 11 Home edition will cost $139.99, while Pro will cost $199.99. However, most laptops will just come with either one preinstalled.

Can I download Windows 10 for free?

No matter how or whether you pay for it, you can download Windows 10 (opens in new tab) or download Windows 11 (opens in new tab) for free from Microsoft.com.

What happens if I don't update Windows 10 20H2?

Microsoft won't give you any more security updates if you don't upgrade Windows 10 version 20H2 in the next month. Microsoft is putting the squeeze on anyone who is hanging doggedly on to an old version of Windows.

Can you go from 1909 to 21H2?

If a device is updating from Windows 10, version 1909 or an earlier version, this feature update enablement package cannot be manually installed. Instead, it is bundled and automatically included with the feature update to Windows 10, version 21H2.

Can I go from Windows 10 1909 to 21H1?

Upgrade to Windows 10 21H1 from version 1909

Under the “Create Windows 10 installation media” section, click the Download tool now button. Save the installer to the device. Double-click the MediaCreationTool21H1.exe file to launch the tool. Click the Accept button.