Windows 10 end of life

Nothing to do with hamsters but to do with computers. Just thought I'd start this thread, in case anyone is having to upgrade to Windows 11 or not sure the best thing to do. I'm quite up on Windows installations! So happy to give some tips

Windows 10 reaches end of life in October.

I have one old netbook that won't run Windows 11 - it has Windows 10 on it, and I'm going to sign up for the ESU (extended support updates) for a year. This means windows 10 continues to be supported until October 2026 (ie another year). The option for ESU comes via Windows update. It's free if you have 1000 microsoft reward points (easy to get) and a couple of other options.

Anyone who can upgrade to Windows 11, it's ok I have it on my main laptop (which is about 6 years old). Anyone who has a computer that won't upgrade to Windows 11 - there are various options - it doesn't mean having to buy a new computer. It can still be upgraded even if the hardware doesn't meet the specifications - there are workarounds. It works just as well.

I think most people use their phones, so this is really for those who use laptops or desktop computers I know a couple of people who are wary of having to upgrade to Windows 11 but if you do things right, it's fine. Most computers will just upgrade automatically, if you accept the update. But it's always a good idea to backup (save) your personal files to an external drive or usb before upgrading.

Thanks Maz

It's always a bit of a faff when you are used to one thing and have to change and get used to another! When I started working in the NHS 18 months ago, my work laptop already had windows 11 on it, so when I upgraded my home laptop, I'd already got used to using it.

Yes it is a faff. We've been through it with XP, and Windows 7 and now Windows 10. I actually started using Windows 11 when it first came out - on a spare laptop (my old netbook), just out of curiosity. It seemed nice but I stuck to my workhorse windows 10 for a while. So like you I got used to Windows 11. At first I didn't like the start button being in the middle but after a while I actually preferred it! At that point I put it on my main laptop. And after that I didn't like using Windows 10 any more.

Hopefully most people will have had similar to us and already got used to the change.