4 Alternatives If Your Windows 10 PC Doesn't Meet Windows 11 Compatibility Standards

As you've probably heard, Windows 10 is set to reach its end of support on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will discontinue free security patches, updates, and technical assistance for this operating system. However, this doesn’t mean your computer will stop functioning—it just means you'll need to take responsibility for keeping it secure and running optimally on your own.

If you've tried to upgrade to Windows 11 but encountered a compatibility error during the process, there's no need to panic—there are still solutions available to you.

Here are four potential paths you can take:

1. Disregard the Deadline – While this isn't an ideal choice, it is technically an option. Once support for Windows 10 ends, your system will no longer receive critical security updates, leaving your device vulnerable to cyber threats and malware. You'll need to implement alternative security measures, which may not be as robust it should be. Beyond security, you’ll also lose access to technical support and performance-enhancing updates, potentially impacting your device’s functionality and efficiency.


2. Use a Technical Workaround to Upgrade “Incompatible” PCs – If your PC failed the Windows 11 compatibility check, there’s still a chance to upgrade it using a loophole. ZDNET provides detailed instructions, but the gist involves making a small registry modification and ensuring your PC is set up with Secure Boot and a Trusted Platform Module (TPM). The process may trigger a warning that states: “If you proceed with installing Windows 11, your PC will no longer be supported and won’t receive updates. Any damage caused due to incompatibility isn’t covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.” However, this doesn’t mean your data will be erased immediately; it simply absolves the company of liability if issues arise due to the lack of official support.


3. Subscribe to Microsoft’s Paid Windows 10 Security Updates – While free security updates will cease, Microsoft announced in December 2023 that Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will be available for Windows 10 on a subscription basis for up to three years. Before opting for this solution, consider the following:
   
   This option is costly. For businesses, the first year of coverage costs $61, doubling to $122 in the second year, and again to $244 in the third year. Over three years, the total reaches $427—roughly 50% more than the pricing for similar updates offered for Windows 7 in 2020.
   
   Educational institutions receive substantial discounts. Their pricing follows the same doubling structure, but starts at just $1 for the first year, increasing to $2 in year two and $4 in year three.
   
   Keep in mind that ESUs are cumulative, meaning you can’t purchase year-two updates unless you’ve already subscribed for the first year. Additionally, technical support is not included, so you'll need to handle any issues on your own.
   
   This costly pricing structure appears designed to push users toward upgrading to Windows 11, making ESUs a short-term stopgap rather than a permanent fix.


4. Invest in a New PC – If your current computer is aging and nearing obsolescence, upgrading to a Windows 11-compatible PC can be an excellent choice. Newer systems generally offer faster performance, enhanced security features, and improved productivity tools.

Before making a purchase, be sure to back up all your data regularly and thoroughly. Losing important information is an avoidable hassle that’s best addressed proactively.

Don’t wait until the last minute to decide on your next steps. With October 2025 approaching faster than you think, it’s wise to plan ahead. If you’re unsure about the best course of action, our team of professionals is ready to help. We can assess your needs and recommend the optimal solution for your situation. If you decide to upgrade, we’ll ensure a smooth transition with minimal costs and downtime. Get started by calling us at 704-470-9009 or click here to book a consultation.