Summary of that video: Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security and feature updates for Windows 10, which could impact millions of older computers unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to hardware requirements like TPM 2.0, more RAM, and specific CPU features. This will leave many capable PCs vulnerable and may cause unnecessary e-waste.
**Options to Keep Windows 10 Running After End of Support:** 1. **Extended Security Update (ESU) Program by Microsoft** * Microsoft will offer one more year of official updates through its ESU program. * You can join through three ways: syncing your computer settings with a Microsoft account/OneDrive (free the first year), redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, or paying \$30 for a year of support. * The ESU price doubles each year after the first, so the cost will rise quickly, making it a short-term fix. 2. **0patch (Third-Party Security Patches)** * 0patch provides unofficial security updates for Windows 10, potentially through 2030. * It uses a lightweight client that applies security patches in memory, covering critical vulnerabilities and zero-days. * The professional license is about €25/year (~\$30 USD), making it an affordable long-term option after Microsoft’s ESU becomes too expensive. 3. **Windows 10 LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel)** * LTSC is a business-focused, streamlined version of Windows 10 meant for critical systems with fewer built-in apps and no Microsoft Store. * It gets security updates through January 2027 (regular), and January 2032 (IoT version). * LTSC is more stable and bloatware-free but lacks compatibility with some consumer apps and features. Licenses are usually sold to businesses but can be found via some online vendors. **Conclusion** * Short-term: Use Microsoft’s ESU for one more year of updates at low (or no) cost. * Medium-term: Switch to 0patch for ongoing security updates once ESU pricing increases or ends. * For tech-savvy users: Consider Windows 10 LTSC or its IoT variant for maximum security update longevity, with the tradeoff of fewer features and limited app compatibility. * No need to rush—monitor official updates from Microsoft and assess what best fits your needs before making any purchases. Another option that is officially unsupported: How to Use Rufus to Create a Windows 11 USB that Bypasses Hardware Checks: Download Rufus Go to the official Rufus website and download the latest version. Download a Windows 11 ISO File Get the official Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s website. Insert a USB Drive Plug in an empty USB drive (min. 8GB recommended). Open Rufus Launch Rufus. It will automatically detect your USB drive. Select the ISO File Under “Boot selection,” click “SELECT” and choose your Windows 11 ISO. Configure Bypass Options When you choose a Windows 11 ISO, Rufus (version 3.16 and newer) recognizes it and, before starting, prompts you with customization options. Check the boxes to remove requirements for TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and RAM/CPU checks (when prompted). Set Partition & File System Partition scheme: GPT (for UEFI systems) or MBR (for older BIOS systems). File system: NTFS. Start the Process Click “START.” Confirm any warnings about data loss (the USB will be wiped). Rufus will create a bootable USB that includes the bypass for Windows 11 hardware checks. Install Windows 11 Boot your PC from this USB stick. During installation, Windows 11 will skip TPM, Secure Boot, and other checks that normally block installs on unsupported hardware. Notes: This method is officially unsupported by Microsoft, but widely used for older PCs. Always back up your data before proceeding. -- J.D AUSTIN TWIN GECKOS TECHNOLOGY SERVICES LLC Open Technology Specialist P.O. Box 2487 Apache Junction, Az 85117 Web: www.twingeckos.com Work: 480.400.5129 or 480-269-4335 Fax: 602.649.1791 Cell: 480-288-8195 On Wed, Sep 24, 2025 at 7:58 AM Keith Smith via PLUG-discuss < [email protected]> wrote: > > This popped up in my YouTube list. Hope it is useful. October came > quick and I am not ready to go all Linux..... > > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_hcTpR4QG_4 > > > Keith > --------------------------------------------------- > PLUG-discuss mailing list: [email protected] > To subscribe, unsubscribe, or to change your mail settings: > https://lists.phxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug-discuss
--------------------------------------------------- PLUG-discuss mailing list: [email protected] To subscribe, unsubscribe, or to change your mail settings: https://lists.phxlinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug-discuss
