Windows 10 will soon no longer receive security updates, forcing millions to either upgrade or pay an annual fee to keep their PC safe. However, installing the new Windows 11 could come with its own risks.
Despite being the most popular desktop operating system on the planet, Windows 10 is being pushed out of the limelight for good. From October next year, the software will no longer receive security updates from Microsoft, meaning you’ll have no choice but to upgrade to Windows 11 or pay an annual fee – via Extended Security Updates (ESUs) – to keep your Windows 10 device safe.
There are ‘minimum system requirements’ for installing Windows 11, including having a 1GHz Processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage. You can read the full list of criteria here, but if your device fails to meet the necessary specifications – Microsoft suggests purchasing a new PC is your best bet. If a new PC is simply out of your budget, you can receive those ESUs, which will cost consumers $30 (£24) per year.
Microsoft warns that while this annual fee will allow Windows 10 users to get ‘critical and important security updates’, it won’t offer new features and bug fixes. Technical support will also no longer be available, meaning an upgrade is still preferable.
Those willing to go against Microsoft’s recommendation can technically install Windows 11 on a device that doesn’t meet the tech giant’s requirements. However, this does come with a pretty clear risk and even cause things to ‘malfunction’.
“Installing Windows 11 on a device that doesn’t meet Windows 11 minimum system requirements isn’t recommended. If Windows 11 is installed on ineligible hardware, you should be comfortable assuming the risk of running into compatibility issues,” Microsoft said. “Devices that don’t meet these system requirements might malfunction due to compatibility or other issues. These devices aren’t guaranteed to receive updates, including but not limited to security updates.”
The brand added that users will have to agree to a disclaimer when attempting to install Windows 11, which specifically states ‘damages to your PC due to lack of compatibility aren’t covered under the manufacturer warranty’. According to Express.co.uk, a watermark will also be added to devices that have upgraded to Windows 11 without meeting the requirements. To revert back to Windows 10, go to Settings > System > Recovery, and select Go back under the Recovery options.
Despite the furore from abandoning Windows 10, Microsoft says Windows 11 is the ‘best Windows made better, with a Copilot for every person on every device’. “From AI-powered features to built-in security protections and state of the art creativity, it’s the Windows you know, and more,” the company added. You can learn more about Windows 11 here.
Windows 10 vs Windows 11 – which is the best operating system? Have your say in the comments section below
