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How to Keep Windows 10 After October 2025: Complete Guide
Windows 10 reaches end-of-support in October 2025, but that doesn’t mean you have to abandon it immediately. This guide explores how to keep Windows 10 after October 2025, what risks you'll face, and how to harden your system for continued safe use.
By Lily Updated on June 5, 2025
Can I still use Windows 10 after 2025?
Yes, you can still use Windows 10 after October 2025 — but with important limitations.
Microsoft’s official support for Windows 10 ends on October 14, 2025, which means no more security updates, bug fixes, or new features from that date onward. However, the operating system itself won’t suddenly stop working. Your computer will still boot up, your apps will still run, and you’ll still be able to access your files. But here’s the catch: you’ll be on your own.
Who should consider staying on Windows 10?
If you are in one of the following situations, you may consider sticking with Windows 10 even after 2025:
- Legacy software or hardware: If you rely on older applications or devices that aren’t compatible with Windows 11, upgrading might break your workflow.
- Budget constraints: New PCs that support Windows 11 can be expensive, and you are not ready to invest.
- Personal preference: You simply prefer the interface and performance of Windows 10.
Then, how to keep using Windows 10 after 2025? Please read on.
Helpful tips for keeping Windows 10 after October 2025
If you're planning to keep using Windows 10 after Windows 10 end of support, staying safe and functional will require a more proactive approach. Here are key tips to help you protect your system, minimize risks, and maintain usability as long as possible.
Tip 1: Create Regular Backups
Backing up your system is critical once Windows 10 is no longer supported. Without Microsoft patches or support, a single issue could wipe out your files or make your PC unusable. I recommend using the best free backup software - AOMEI Backupper Standard, a reliable and easy-to-use tool for both beginners and advanced users.
AOMEI Backupper-
It offers multiple backup types. You can easily back up files, partitions, your system, or even an entire disk.
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It supports scheduled backups—set to run daily, weekly, or monthly—eliminating the need for manual operations.
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Its incremental backup feature ensures only modified files are saved, significantly reducing storage usage and backup time.
100% SecureDownload AOMEI Backupper now and install it on your PC. To backup Windows 10 OS, follow the steps below:
Step 1. Run AOMEI Backupper and click Backup > System Backup.
Step 2. Boot-related partitions are selected by default as the backup source. Choose where to save the backup:
- External HDD/USB drive(recommended)
- Internal secondary drive(not the same as your OS drive)
- Network location(NAS or shared folder)
Step 3. Enable Schedule Backup and choose a backup frequency for your backup - "Daily", "Weekly", "Monthly", "Event triggers" and "USB plug in".
Step 4. Confirm your settings and click Start Backup.
Tip 2: Strengthen Your System Security
- Use a reputable third-party antivirus: Since Microsoft Defender may no longer be updated, switch to a well-supported antivirus solution with strong threat detection.
- Enable a firewall: Make sure your firewall (built-in or third-party) is active to block suspicious traffic.
- Limit admin access: Use a standard user account for daily activities and reserve admin privileges for specific tasks.
- Disable unnecessary services: Reduce your system’s exposure by turning off services and features you don't use, especially those that interact with the internet.
Tip 3: Patch Manually With Community Tools
After 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide patches—but the tech community might:
- Use unofficial patching tools or third-party solutions designed for legacy systems (at your own risk).
- Monitor forums and trusted sources (like GitHub) for updates and workarounds.
Tip 4: Keep Your Apps and Drivers Updated
- Regularly update browsers, office tools, and other third-party apps that still support Windows 10.
- Ensure drivers are up to date now while updates are still officially available. Save installers for future use.
Tip 5: Stay on a Stable Offline Setup (If Possible)
If your use case allows:
- Avoid internet access altogether to eliminate online attack vectors.
- Use your PC for local tasks only, such as media playback, document editing, or running legacy software.
This is ideal for kiosks, industrial systems, or archive workstations.
Tip 6: Harden Your Web Browser
If you must stay online:
- Use a browser that still supports Windows 10 and receives regular updates.
- Install privacy-focused extensions like uBlock Origin and HTTPS Everywhere.
- Avoid storing passwords or sensitive data in the browser.
Recommend: Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11
While it’s possible to keep Windows 10 after October 2025, the most secure and future-proof option is to upgrade to Windows 11. Before upgrading, confirm your PC meets Microsoft’s official minimum requirements for Windows 11.
If your device is eligible, upgrading is straightforward:
1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. If your PC is compatible, you’ll see the option to Download and install Windows 11.
3. Follow the prompts and complete the upgrade.
Tip: If your hardware doesn’t meet the Windows 11 requirements, you can clean install Windows 11 using Windows 11 bootable USB.
Summary
It is possible to keep Windows 10 after October 2025 but there are risks. This article tells how to reduce security risks through system hardening, third-party tools, and regular backups with AOMEI Backupper.
If your device is eligible, the smarter long-term solution is to upgrade to Windows 11, which offers ongoing security updates and modern features. Whether you stick with Windows 10 or move on, AOMEI Backupper can help protect your system and valuable data. Just give it a shot!
