“What happens if Windows is no longer supported?” is a support page that Microsoft has just updated with some interesting information. Reported by Neowin, this new version firstly informs about the concept of “unsupported version” of the operating system.
We can thus read that although Windows remains functional, Microsoft will no longer offer technical support for any problems, software updates and security patches. A situation which thus makes the computer “higher risk of viruses and malware”.
Faced with this situation, the Redmond firm advises users to upgrade to a more recent version of Windows or purchase “a new device that can run Windows 11”pour “an easy transition and an exceptional experience”.
This recommendation is not trivial, given that PC users running versions other than Windows 10 cannot upgrade to the latest version of the operating system for free. In addition, even those with a Windows 10 computer can be stuck because of the required prerequisites.
In detail, Microsoft reveals three options to continue to have an updated and secure computer:
- Recommended: New PC with Windows 11or the purchase of a more recent model
- Installing Windows 11 on your current PCfor free from a compatible Windows 10 computer
- Installing Windows 10 on your current PC (end of support October 14, 2025), for a fee
The FAQ ends by explaining how to transfer your personal files to a new computer. In addition to a USB key and an external hard drive, Microsoft unsurprisingly recommends its cloud storage service: OneDrive.
For those who do not have a PC running Windows 10 that meets the different Windows 11 installation criteria, know that a very useful tool exists to bypass the update restrictions: Rufus.
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