Does Windows 10 have an End of Life? The answer is Yes! As Microsoft continues to update Windows 10 to newer releases, the older releases are ‘retired’. This means you will not receive updates for the older versions of Windows 10. As of April 2021, this means anything older than version 1909.

That version (1909) was released in October of 2019. Since then, there have been two major upgrades (2004 and 20H2). Yes, someone at Microsoft FINALLY realized that their numbering system was more than a little flawed. Technically, the 20H2 version would have been called 2010, but why make it sound like they are going back in time? That’s when someone decided to drop a letter instead and come up with something that sounded a little more intelligent.

Windows versions are now named in two ways. One for the Year (hence 21) and the first or second half of the year (hence H1 or H2). As Spock would say, ‘That’s very logical’. It took Microsoft over 5 years to figure this one out!

Now … what to do if you are running an older version of Windows 10 and are now seeing messages that your Windows is expiring. It’s not really expiring, but there will no longer be updates for that version. This could leave you vulnerable while online.

As long as your computer is capable of handling the updated version of Windows, you could let Windows try to go through all the upgrades one at a time. It will take FOREVER … and may fail, causing your system to roll back. Or you could try to use the Windows 10 Upgrade Assistant. It can jump you directly to the latest version without having to do update after update.

But there may be other trouble … keep reading.

Let’s say your computer got the Windows 10 upgrade back in 2016 when your system was about 3 or 4 years old. It was a ‘free upgrade’ offered by Microsoft. It was most likely a very old version. We still see some early releases of Win 10 out there today. It might be ‘stable’, but it’s not secure. What happens is that your equipment may need a ‘software update for the hardware’. I’m talking about a BIOS update before you can make the jump to a newer version of Windows.

BIOS updates should be done with caution. Installing the wrong one will lead to complete system failure. Installing the BIOS can be tricky and should be done by an experienced computer tech. The BIOS is the software that is built into the motherboard that controls all the hardware. It stands for Basic Input Output System. Obviously someone knew how to name something right the first time without having to change it five years later. Without a functional BIOS, your computer would not turn on, or boot.

Now … not all manufactures are updating the BIOS to keep up with Windows 10. If it’s a popular model, it’s more likely that there will be software out there for your computer. If it’s a ‘not so popular’ model, or from a little known company, you may be out of luck. Manufactures do not make money for writing new drivers or BIOS for an old computer. However it’s in their best interest to keep existing customers functioning. Honestly, it’s a ‘hit or miss’ with some companies. It could be due to the fact that in one year alone, a manufacturer released as many as 90 different models and just don’t have the time or manpower to keep updates going.

The big question is “Should I keep this old system going? Or replace it?”

If your computer is more than 5 years old, consider replacing it. Newer systems can be up to 10 times faster than a 5 year old computer. It will be compatible for the future. It should offer more reliability. It should also be more secure.

But not everyone can afford to replace an old computer. If you are seeing messages about your Windows reaching End Of Life, give us a call. We can determine which direction you should go. Perhaps we can extend the life a little more, perhaps not.

Give us a call at 502.523.9460