- Your computer runs Windows 10
- You've seen messages about Windows 10 support ending
- You're wondering whether you need a new computer
- Dates checked September 2026. Microsoft has changed them before, so check its Windows 10 pages if you're reading this later.
- Beware: nobody will phone you to "extend your Windows". Calls like that are scams.
The Windows key is the key with the four-squares logo, usually bottom left between Ctrl and Alt. When a step says Windows key + I, hold the Windows key down, tap I once, then let go of both.
Step 1: Check which Windows you have
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Open the version box
Press Windows key + R, type winver and press Enter.
A box saying Windows 10 or Windows 11, and a version such as "22H2". If it says Windows 11, you don't need this guide.
Step 2: Can it upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
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Check Windows Update
Press Windows key + I → Update & Security → Windows Update.
Either a message offering Windows 11, or one saying this computer doesn't meet the requirements. -
If you're not sure, run PC Health Check
Search the Microsoft website for PC Health Check, install it and click Check now. It tells you yes or no, and why.
Windows 11 generally needs a computer from about 2018 or newer. Older computers usually can't upgrade officially.
Step 3: Choose what to do
| Option | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade to Windows 11 (free) | Computers that pass the check | Back up first. Takes 1-3 hours, mostly waiting |
| Sign up for extended updates | Older computers that work well | Covers you until 12 October 2027. Steps below |
| Replace the computer | Slow or failing computers | Worth planning before October 2027 |
| Switch to ChromeOS Flex (free) | Old laptops used only for web, email and video calls | Simple and secure, but wipes the computer. Best done by someone experienced |
Step 4: Sign up for extended security updates
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Install all current updates first
Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for updates. Install everything and restart. Repeat until it says you're up to date.
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Click "Enrol now"
On the same Windows Update page, look for a message about Windows 10 support with an Enrol now link. Click it.
No Enrol now link? Make sure all updates are installed, your version is 22H2 (from Step 1), and you're signed in as the main (administrator) account. -
Sign in with a Microsoft account
You'll be asked to sign in with a Microsoft account (the same kind used for Outlook.com or Hotmail email). If you don't have one, you can create one for free.
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Choose how to enrol
In the UK you can choose:
- Free: let Windows Backup save your settings to your Microsoft account
- Free: use 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, if you have them
- One-off payment (£24.99 when checked)
One sign-up covers up to 10 computers on the same Microsoft account.
Windows Update now says the computer is enrolled in Extended Security Updates.
- Someone phones or emails offering to "extend Windows" for a fee (scam)
- The upgrade fails or the computer won't start afterwards
- You're unsure whether to repair or replace an older computer
Still stuck? I'm happy to help.
If this didn't sort it, or you'd rather not do it yourself, get in touch. I cover Sheffield S20 and the surrounding areas.
Did this guide help? These guides are free for everyone. If it saved you a call-out, you can say thanks with a coffee.
Buy me a coffeeThese guides are general advice for home users, checked in September 2026. Menus can differ slightly between versions of Windows and between phone makers. If something looks different or you're unsure, stop and ask rather than guessing. Parmar Tech Solutions can't accept responsibility for problems caused by following these steps, so please back up anything important first.