Upgrade to Windows 11, Linux, or ChromeOS Flex as Windows 10 End of Support Approaches

As we countdown to the end of support for Windows 10, set for October 14, 2025, it’s essential to prepare your PC for a seamless transition. This guide offers insights into what the end of support means, explores upgrade options to Windows 11, and provides alternatives like Linux Mint and ChromeOS Flex for those whose computers do not meet the new system requirements.

Understanding the Implications of End of Support

Launched on July 15, 2015, Windows 10 will bid farewell to official updates—security patches, bug fixes, and technical assistance—after a decade of service. Essentially, this impending phase-out can expose your system to various security threats which could jeopardize performance over time. Therefore, acting before this date is crucial for keeping your system safe and efficient.

Assessing Your Computer Hardware

Before preparing for an upgrade, it’s vital to assess your current computer’s hardware. This includes determining whether your PC meets the requirements for Windows 11 or whether you’ll need to consider alternative operating systems.

To check your hardware compatibility, the Microsoft PC Health Check app is a convenient tool that will help you evaluate your system specifications against the needs of Windows 11.

Strategizing Your Upgrade Path

Familiarize yourself with your hardware status, then outline your upgrade strategy:

• If your hardware meets the Windows 11 system requirements, proceed with the upgrade for ongoing updates and enhanced features.
• If your hardware is outdated—lacking TPM 2.0 or a compatible CPU—you can still upgrade, but you’ll be running an unsupported version of Windows 11.
• For devices that fail to meet Windows 11’s requirements entirely, consider switching to alternatives like Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex.
• Alternatively, explore Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. For a fee of approximately $30 for the first year, it permits access to critical updates beyond the end date, allowing you extra time to manage the transition.
• Finally, if your current device cannot support any future operating system upgrades, investing in a new computer is worth considering for enhanced security and performance.

Transitioning from Windows 10 After Support Ends

Once you’ve evaluated your options, it’s time to strategize your transition. Follow these essential steps to ensure a smooth upgrade:

• Verify Windows 11 compatibility
• Perform a full system backup
• Conduct a supported upgrade to Windows 11
• Upgrade to Windows 11 using unsupported hardware
• Transition to Linux Mint
• Move to ChromeOS Flex
• Invest in a new PC
• Opt for Extended Security Updates

Check for Windows 11 Compatibility

Follow these steps to see if your PC qualifies for the upgrade:

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Type PC Health Check and select the application from the results.
3. Click the Check now button.
5. Review the confirmation regarding your compatibility with Windows 11.
6. (Optional) For detailed results on component compatibility, click on the “See all results” button.
8. (Optional) Click on Device specifications for further insights into system requirements.

If your device is compatible, you’ll receive confirmation. If not, you’ll be informed of the requirements you didn’t meet. In that case, you can opt to bypass the requirements and install Windows 11, or steadily transition to alternative operating systems like Linux Mint or ChromeOS Flex.

Should the application be unavailable, you can download it from this Microsoft link.

Creating a Full Backup

This step is critical to safeguard your data before initiating any upgrade. In the event of complications, a backup allows for a rollback to your previous system.

To generate a system image backup on Windows 10, follow these guidelines:

1. Access Settings on your Windows 10 machine.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Choose Backup.
4. Under “Looking for an older backup?” click “Go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” .
6. From the left pane, select “Create a system image” .
8. Designate the destination external USB drive—your files will not be erased, but will be saved in a **”WindowsImageBackup” ** folder.
9. Click Next.
10. If needed, include any additional drives for the backup.
12. Press Next.
13. Click on Start backup.
14. Select No when prompted to create a system image repair disc.

Once these steps are successfully completed, your backups will reside on the external USB drive and can facilitate a restoration should any issues arise during the upgrade process.

For further insights, check out my video walkthrough linked here:

Watch the tutorial

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This backup ultimately serves to restore the current setup if complications occur. If you decide on a clean installation of Windows 11 or switch to a new OS, you must also transfer your essential files to an external drive before setting everything up again.

Upgrading to Windows 11 on Supported Devices

For users whose hardware qualifies, follow these steps to upgrade via Windows Update:

1. Access the Settings menu.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Open the Windows Update section.
4. Press the “Check for updates” button.
6. Finally, click “Download and install” .
8. Click Restart now when prompted.

Once these steps are completed, Windows 11 will install on your PC.

Watch the tutorial for this process

Upgrading to Windows 11 on Unsupported Devices

For hardware that falls short of Windows 11’s requirements, the ISO download method offers an effective solution. Using the Rufus tool enhances the installation process.

Downloading the Windows 11 ISO File

To secure the official Windows 11 ISO file, proceed as follows:

1. Open the Microsoft Support website.
2. Select the Windows 11 option under “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices.”
4. Press Download.
5. Choose your installation language.
7. Hit Confirm.
8. Finally, click the Download button to save the ISO file to your computer.

Upon finishing these steps, proceed to create the installation media.

Creating Windows 11 Bootable Media

For this task, connect a USB flash drive with at least 8GB capacity and follow these steps:

1. Head to the Rufus website.
2. Select to download the latest version under the “Download” section.
3. Choose your USB drive from the “Device” section.
4. Launch the tool by double-clicking the executable file.
5. Click on the Select button.
7. Select the Windows 11 ISO file.
8. Click Open.
9. Proceed with the default settings after the file opens.
10. (Optional) Assign a name to the drive in the “Volume label” section.
11. Hit Start to commence.
12. Check the options to remove the requirements for 4GB+ RAM, Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0.
14. Additionally, select the options to create a local account and disable automatic BitLocker encryption if desired.
15. Click OK.

After completing these steps, the Rufus tool will generate the bootable media for your computer.

If you selected the local account creation option, remember to update this post-installation.

Performing a Clean Install on Unsupported Hardware

To initiate a clean installation of Windows 11 on unsupported devices, follow this process:

Select your preferred language for the installation.

Choose the keyboard and input method.

Select Install without a product key option.

Quick Note: The Windows 10 product key should work automatically for activation.

Follow the instructions to set the region in the out-of-the-box experience (OOBE) after installation.

Choose your keyboard layout.

Confirm to “Set up for personal use” (only for Pro versions).

Complete your Microsoft account setup.

Create a new four-digit PIN for easy access.

Finally, you will complete the setup process and Windows 11 will be ready for use! Check out my tutorial on this process as well:

Watch the installation video

Transitioning from Windows 10 to Linux Mint

If you’re opting for a change in the OS landscape, Linux Mint stands out as an excellent alternative to Windows. This modern distribution has simplified user experiences significantly, making it a prime choice for users who are comfortable with Windows interfaces.

The Cinnamon desktop environment within Linux Mint provides familiarity and ease of use, diminishing the learning curve for new users. Additionally, you will benefit from a stable system that experiences minimal crashes and slowdowns—all while being free from licensing fees.

Notably, Linux Mint retains compatibility with a vast range of hardware components—ideal if your aging device struggles with the latest Windows updates. Furthermore, while traditional Microsoft software isn’t available on Linux, you can access web apps and alternative software such as LibreOffice and GIMP to meet your productivity needs.

Creating a Linux Mint Bootable USB Flash Drive

Follow these steps to create a USB installer for Linux Mint:

1. Access the Linux Mint download page.
2. Click the download button for the Cinnamon Edition.
4. Choose a download link closest to your location under the “Download mirrors” section.
6. Save the ISO file to your computer.
7. Navigate to Rufus for the latest version.
8. Download the tool.
9. Select your USB flash drive from the “Device” section in Rufus.
10. Open the tool by double-clicking its executable.
11. Hit the Select button.
13. Locate the Linux Mint ISO file.
14. Click on Open.
15. Continue with default settings.
16. (Optional) Set a name using the “Volume label” field.
17. Press Start to create the bootable drive.
18. Be sure to accept the prompt indicating the drive will be formatted.
20. Lastly, when prompted, confirm by clicking OK.

Conducting a Clean Installation of Linux Mint

To install Linux Mint on your existing Windows 10 system, follow these steps:

1. Boot the PC with the Linux Mint USB flash drive connected.
2. Choose the “Start Linux Mint” option and press Enter.
4. Double-click on the “Install Linux Mint” icon located on the desktop.
6. Select your installation language.
8. Click the Continue button.
9. Choose the keyboard layout.
11. Click the Continue button.
12. (Optional) Check “Install multimedia codecs” to enhance media playback.
13. 
14. Again, click Continue to proceed.
15. Select the “Erase disk and install Linux Mint” option.
17. Click Install Now.
18. Press Continue as prompted.
19. Select your time zone.
21. Another click on Continue.
22. Set up your local account for the Linux Mint environment.
24. Click Continue.
25. Once the installation completes, click the Restart now button.
27. After restart, remove the USB drive and press Enter.

Upon executing these steps, Linux Mint will be at your fingertips, ready for exploration!

Linux Mint presents a familiar environment similar to Windows, featuring an intuitive desktop setup with easy navigation. Add to that the versatility of using various browsers, although it may differ from Windows by defaulting to Mozilla Firefox. Nevertheless, the freedom to install any current browser remains available.

Instead of the Microsoft Store, you can use the “Software Manager” in Linux Mint to download applications. Alternatively, you can install applications by downloading .deb packages or using the apt-get install command if you’re comfortable with terminal commands.

For modifications to any settings, use the “System Settings” app for adjustments pertaining to appearance, hardware, and security.

Upgrading from Windows 10 to ChromeOS Flex

Another compelling option for unsupported Windows 10 devices is ChromeOS Flex. As a lighter version of Google ChromeOS, it thrives on web apps and the Chrome browser, offering impressive security measures against malware and ransomware.

The flexibility of ChromeOS Flex is considerable, requiring only a 64-bit Intel or AMD processor, 4GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage for a basic setup. For optimal functionality, utilize a more modern processor and GPU from post-2010.

Creating ChromeOS Flex USB Installation Media

For creating this, follow these concise steps:

1. Open the Chromebook Recovery Utility page on Chrome.
2. Click “Add to Chrome” .
4. Press the Add extension button.
5. After that, choose “Get started” within the extension.
6. Select the “Google ChromeOS Flex” from the options that appear.
   
7. Next, hit Continue.
8. Select your USB drive from the list of available devices.
   
9. Press the Create now button to complete the setup.
   
10. Finally, click the Done button.

You are now ready to install ChromeOS Flex on your device!

Procedure for Clean Installation of ChromeOS Flex

To install ChromeOS Flex, complete these steps:

1. Boot your unsupported Windows 10 PC with the ChromeOS Flex USB connected.
Quick note: If unable to boot from USB, consider updating your BIOS/UEFI settings. This usually requires accessing function keys during restart or checking the manufacturer’s website for specifics.
2. Modify the installation language if needed.
3. Click the Get Started button.
   
4. Select “Install ChromeOS Flex” .
   
   Quick note: The “Try it first” option allows a preliminary experience without installation, preserving your settings for next time.
5. Continue by pressing Next.
6. When prompted, select Install ChromeOS Flex (note: this action will wipe your device).
   
7. Click Install to initiate the process.
8. Choose your Wi-Fi network.
9. Enter your Wi-Fi password when prompted.
   
10. Confirm your connection by clicking Connect.
11. Select “For personal use” .
    
    Quick note: Your system will also download any pending updates during this setup.
12. Continue with Next.
13. Delve into your Gmail account setup, proceeding through confirmations.
    
14. Complete the verification steps to finalize the setup.
15. Last but not least, accept the data options toggling for tailored experiences.
16. Upon completion, click Get started to unveil your new OS.

Upon fulfilling these steps, your ChromeOS Flex will now be officially operational!

Investing in a New PC as an Upgrade Strategy

If the thought of upgrade complexities feels overwhelming or if you’re unsure about switching to another operating system, consider investing in a new computer. New devices are optimal for Windows 11—and offer exposure to advanced features that ensure top-notch security moving forward.

Determining what type of new PC suits you can depend on your usage patterns and budget considerations. For basic tasks—like streaming, managing emails, or handling office applications—you don’t have to overspend. Expect prices around $500 for computers tailored for everyday use. Avoid overly inexpensive products as they are prone to outdated hardware.

If you fancy AI capabilities, starting points are generally around $800, but promotional deals can offer significant savings. For instance, I found an ASUS Vivobook S 15 recently reduced to $499—though originally priced at $899.

You can also explore high-quality alternatives like the Surface Pro 11, starting at $877 and available at the Microsoft Store. For ongoing discounts on Copilot+ PCs, visit the deals section.

For solid non-AI laptops, check out options like the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 Gen 1, which is priced just below $600, or the ASUS Vivobook 16, often available for under $500.

Extend Your Time on Windows 10 with ESU

Should you prefer to cling to Windows 10 longer, consider Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU). Historically restricted to organizations, this offering is now accessible to consumers wishing to extend support beyond the official end date.

The ESU program ensures your device continues to receive essential updates, though it will not provide new features, design changes, or general support. For a cost of about $30, it buys time for users needing a longer transition window.

What’s your upgrade strategy to move away from Windows 10? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Additional Insights

1. What happens if I continue using Windows 10 after the end of support?

If you continue using Windows 10 post the October 14, 2025, deadline, your system will be at risk as it won’t receive any security updates or technical support from Microsoft. This increases vulnerability to malware and other security threats.

2. How can I back up my data effectively before upgrading?

To ensure your data is safe, create a full system backup using Windows built-in backup options. Alternatively, consider using cloud storage solutions or external hard drives for additional redundancy.

3. Is switching to Linux Mint difficult for someone used to Windows?

Switching to Linux Mint is designed to be user-friendly, especially with the Cinnamon desktop environment, which closely resembles the Windows interface. While there might be a slight learning curve, the overall transition is considered easier than many alternatives.

Source & Images

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