On Spot Techs

By Eric Geier (Our Founder & Owner)

Originally published by Cox Media Group on 9/14/25

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​If you still have the Windows 10 operating system on your computer, Oct 14 is the last day your computer will receive Windows updates unless you enroll into the Extended Security Updates program for another year of updates.

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If you do nothing, your computer won’t stop working, but will be more vulnerable to hackers and viruses. So, I do not suggest that.

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If your computer has Windows 10, it’s likely time to replace it with a new PC for performance and reliability reasons due to its age, but extending support is an option to consider if you don’t want to spend the time and money right now on a new system.

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This past week we have finally now have seen the enrollment ability show up on customer computers, so you should be able to extend your Windows 10 computer now.

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How to check if you have Windows 10 or 11 If you’re unsure which Windows version you have, just take a look on the taskbar, usually on the bottom of the screen. If the search box in the lower-left says “Type here to search” then you likely have Windows 10. If the search box simply says “Search” then you likely have Windows 11, and you don’t have to worry about the October deadline.

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If you have an even older version of Windows, like XP, seven or eight, the ESU doesn’t apply. Support for those ended long ago. Those computers should be replaced immediately.

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Enrolling into the Extended Security Updates program This is the first time Microsoft is allowing consumers or home users to participate in the ESU program for the Windows operating system. One requirement is you must sign into a Microsoft account. An account itself doesn’t cost anything, but there’s a chance you must pay $30 to enroll, which covers up to 10 computers.

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However, if you have 1,000 rewards points to redeem on your Microsoft account, or have utilized the Windows Backup features, you may not have to pay that $30.

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To enroll into the ESU program, click the Start button (usually in the lower-left) and click Settings (the gear icon just above the power button).

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On the Settings app, click Update & Security and you should see the alert about Windows 10 support ending in October; click Enroll Now.

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Then follow the prompts to activate.

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Upgrading your current computer to Windows 11.

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If you have a Windows 10 computer that’s compatible with the upgrade, Microsoft might be bugging you about upgrading your current computer. I don’t suggest doing the upgrade yourself. I highly suggest a tech help do a clean upgrade to Windows 11. If you’re unsure about your computer’s compatibility with Windows 11, contact a computer shop.

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If your computer is more than a few years old, there’s a good chance it won’t be compatible with Windows 11. Microsoft’s system requirements are pretty strict. If your computer isn’t compatible, you should look for a new one.

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I suggest checking with small shops. You might not find deep disconnected sales, but there’s unmatched customer service and custom PC options that has benefits over store-brands.

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