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Get help with your transition to Windows 11, and make the most of your Windows experience.
For ten years, Windows 10 has been the go-to operating system for building, creating, and connecting. Now, like any trusted tool, it’s time for an upgrade.
Windows BackupYou’ve got important stuff on your PC. Windows Backup helps you save your files, settings, and apps, and then restore them on your new Windows 11 device.8 |
Available Backup and restore |
Available Backup only |
Smart App ControlSmart App Control provides a layer of security by only permitting apps with good reputations to be installed on your Windows 11 PC.11 |
Available | Not available |
Snap AssistSnap assist makes the most of your screen space by arranging your open windows into perfectly aligned grids.12 |
Available | Available |
Sync your PC and phoneWindows 11 PCs let you seamlessly access your content and conversations all in one place with Phone Link13. You can make and take calls, reply to texts, check and dismiss notifications, and more. Available for Android™14 and iPhone®15 devices. |
Available Android and iPhone |
Available Android only |
See new Windows features and get help selecting the best PC for your needs.
Windows 11 can help protect your data, making it more difficult to hack, from chip-to-cloud, to you. Say hello to built-in peace of mind.
Use our simple guide to start shopping for your new laptop.
Windows Backup lets you set up things to your liking on your new PC by easily transferring some of your favorite settings, files, and apps from your old device.8
Learn about trade-in offers from Microsoft19 and our retail partners below or find a Microsoft-approved recycling program18 in your region that will responsibly dispose of your old device.
Extended Security Updates (ESU) will ensure your Windows 10 PC continues to receive important security updates until October 13, 2026.
Now that Windows 10 no longer receives security updates, it's a good time to back up your files to OneDrive using Windows Backup.8 This saves your documents, photos, settings, and your favorite apps to a secure cloud storage service—so when you're ready to upgrade to Windows 11 or move to a new Windows device, everything transfers smoothly. You'll get a fresh start without starting over.
Support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft no longer provides software updates, security fixes, or technical assistance to Windows 10 PCs.
PCs running Windows 10 will continue to function, however they will no longer receive software and feature updates, security updates and fixes, or technical support.
While your Windows 10 PC will continue to function, it will no longer receive regular security updates, making the device more vulnerable and susceptible to viruses and malware. Windows 10 PCs may also experience slower performance and functionality across the device and applications.
Support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. To stay protected:
We recommend you check with your PC manufacturer or a local hardware expert to confirm what options are available to you. See this article for more information.
When you are ready to purchase a new Windows 11 PC, we encourage you to leverage trade-in and recycling programs available at many of our Windows ecosystem partners including, OEMs such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Samsung and global retailers like Best Buy, Boulanger, Costco, Currys, Elkjøp, Fnac, Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, MediaMarkt & SATURN, officeworks, Sharaf DG and Walmart.
If you have an eligible device, you can also take advantage of the Microsoft trade-in program18 in qualifying markets to securely and responsibly recycle19 your PC—and get some extra cash. This resource can help you learn the trade-in value of your used device. You can also return and recycle your device responsibly with our end-of-life management and recycling initiatives.Support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. If you're running Microsoft 365 Apps on a Windows 10 device, the applications will continue to function as before. However, we strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid performance and reliability issues over time.
In the interest of maintaining your security while you upgrade to Windows 11, we will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 for a total of three years after Windows 10 end of support, ending on October 10, 2028.Support for non-subscription versions of Office are affected in the following ways:
Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays, and ongoing updates to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost. To receive updates, internet access is required, and service fees may apply. Read more about Windows security.
If you use assistive technologies or legacy peripherals, upgrading to a supported device can significantly enhance your experience. Windows 11—especially on Copilot+ PCs—offers the most advanced accessibility features ever built into Windows.
Key accessibility improvements on Copilot+ PCs:Windows 11 Home is the perfect operating system for personal and household use, while Windows 11 Pro offers all the familiar features of Windows 11 Home, plus additional features such as BitLocker, remote desktop, and domain join to support professionals. Compare versions of Windows 11.
We have a website designed to help you with a decision-making process for selecting a new PC.
The upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 Home or Windows 10 Pro to the equivalent edition of Windows 11 is free (for example, Windows 10 Pro to Windows 11 Pro). Check to see if this is an option for you by opening Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update. If your PC meets the minimum system requirements and is able to upgrade, you should see an option in Windows Update to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Learn more.
For S mode users, the upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10 Home edition in S mode and Windows 10 Pro edition in S mode is free. If your PC meets the minimum system specifications, the Windows 10 Home edition in S mode can upgrade to the Windows 11 Home edition in S mode. If your Windows 10 PC is running the Pro edition in S mode, you will need to switch out of S mode to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Windows 11 Pro edition is not available in S mode. Learn more about S mode here.Microsoft announced last October the Extended Security Updates (ESU) consumer program that gives the option to receive security updates for eligible Windows 10 PCs enrolled in the program. The program provides customers more time before moving to a Copilot+ PC or other Windows 11 device.
For additional information on Consumer ESU program, please visit the ESU support page.
For additional information on Commercial ESU program, please visit the Microsoft Learn page.
ESU includes critical and important security updates only. It does not include new features, customer-requested non-security updates, or design change requests. ESU does not include technical support for Windows 10, except for assistance with ESU license activation and installation of ESU updates. No other technical support is available.
The ESU program for personal use devices is available in most markets where Windows is available. In those markets, any individual using a Windows 10 device on version 22H2 for personal use is eligible. This excludes devices managed by an organization or enrolled in enterprise licensing programs.
Enrollment will be available on Windows 10 devices running 22H2 through a built-in tool available in Settings for eligible devices. You can enroll in ESU any time until the program ends, although ESU updates will only be provided through October 13, 2026, regardless of when you enroll.
Windows 10 devices enrolled in the ESU program will continue to receive critical and important security updates through October 13, 2026.
You can enroll in ESU in one of the following three ways:
Yes, consumer ESU program enrollment options and timing may vary by region, such as in the European Economic Area (EEA). However, updates are applied consistently across all supported areas. A version of this page with details about ESU in your region is available in the languages listed here and will display for you based on the location of where it is accessed.
Windows 10 PCs will continue to function. However, Microsoft no longer provides the following for Windows 10 devices:
While antivirus software—like Microsoft Defender or third-party tools—can help, it’s not enough on its own. Without regular security updates from Microsoft, the operating system remains exposed to new threats. Think of antivirus as a lock on a door, but without ongoing security updates, the doorframe itself may be weak.
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Use our simple guide to make the most of Windows 11. From accessibility to personalization, shortcuts, and security, find the information you need.
Get easy-to-follow information to help you install and update programs, connect to networks, troubleshoot issues, and more.
Change can be difficult, but we’re here to help you take the next steps. As of January 10, 2023, Microsoft no longer provides security updates or technical support for Windows 8.1. You might be able to upgrade your Windows 8.1 device to a newer version of Windows, but we recommend moving to a new PC that can run Windows 11 as the best option.
No more being on the lookout for places to plug in. Buy a new device and enjoy extended battery life5.
Don’t worry about losing or accessing your files when you back them up with OneDrive.
Keep your files protected and minimize the risk of viruses and malware.
Find what you need quickly and make tasks easier with the new Windows 11 layout and navigation help.
It’s everything you love and more—portability, power, and the latest in processors.
2-in-1s provide power and flexibility. Touch, type, click, or pen—choose whichever fits your style.
We’re here to help you take the first steps in transitioning to our most loved operating system yet.1
Backing up your files and photos to OneDrive means you’ll have them on your new PC and won’t have to worry about losing them.6
Optimize screen space, maximize productivity, and bring balance to your desktop with the easy-to-use tools in Windows 11.
After January 10, 2023, computers running Windows 8.1 will still function, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:
No. Support for Windows 8.1 is discontinued, but the software will continue to function. However, after January 10, 2023, your computer running Windows 8.1 will no longer receive security updates. In addition, Microsoft customer service will no longer be available to provide Windows 8.1 technical support.
There are a few options for using a supported version of Windows:
There are two ways you can get to Windows 11:
Recommended: New PC with Windows 11 Windows 11 is the most current version of Windows. If you have an older PC, we recommend you move to Windows 11 by buying a new PC. Hardware and software have improved a lot since Windows 8.1 was released, and today’s computers are faster, more powerful, and more secure.
We do not currently offer free upgrades from Windows 8.1 to either Windows 10 or Windows 11. If you want to purchase a copy of Windows 11, please see links above or contact a retailer to find out about options. Note: The upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is currently free.
PCs originally built with Windows 8.1 are designed with technology that is about 10 years old. Once you move to a new PC, there will be many aspects of Windows that you will find familiar, but also with important software and hardware innovations and capabilities that were not available a decade ago. Some of the innovative new features available with Windows 11 on a new computer:
Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays, and ongoing security updates to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost. To receive updates, internet access is required, and service fees may apply.
Windows 11 Home is the perfect operating system for personal and household use, while Windows 11 Pro offers all the familiar features of Windows 11 Home, plus additional features such as BitLocker, remote desktop, and domain join to support professionals.
It’s easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using OneDrive, a cloud storage service. With internet access and a few clicks, you can back up and protect your files online in the cloud and then, when you’re ready, sync onto a new PC. Syncing the files between your new PC and the cloud allows you to store the file locally for offline use when you don’t have internet access as well as on the OneDrive service in the cloud where you can restore them if something happens. OneDrive can automatically keep the two versions in sync as changes are made.
If OneDrive is not the best fit for you, you can use an external hard drive or USB key to copy files.Yes. Windows 11 on a pen-capable PC or tablet allows you to use a digital pen to naturally write, draw, and sign just as you do on paper. You can mark-up documents and even websites. The new pen menu can be customized with shortcuts to your favorite apps. (Digital pen sold separately.)
Lean more about the Windows Pen experience Find a device that supports Windows Pen
Your experience may be different depending on the Office version you're running. To learn more, see Windows 8.1 end of support and Office.
As of January 10, 2023, you will not be able to make any new app purchases or any in-app purchases from the Microsoft Store, but you can continue to use installed apps and games on a Windows 8.1 PC after that date. Installed apps and games will receive publisher updates through June 30, 2023 (or later if support is provided independently by the developer). Once updates are no longer available, app quality and usability may be degraded. Customers who move to a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC can use and reinstall previously purchased apps and games on their new or upgraded PC.
If you have an eligible device, take advantage of our trade-in program to securely and responsibly recycle your PC—and get some extra cash. This resource can help you learn the trade-in value of your used device. You can also return and recycle your device responsibly with our end-of-life management and recycling initiatives.
After 10 years, security updates and technical support for Windows 7 ended on January 14, 2020. We know change can be difficult, but we’re here to help you take the next steps with ease.
Making the transition to a new Windows 11 computer is easy and offers long-term dependability, plus new and exciting tools.
No more being on the lookout for places to plug in. Buy a new device and enjoy extended battery life.
Don’t worry about losing or accessing your files when you back them up with OneDrive.6
Keep your files protected and minimize the risk of viruses and malware.
Find what you need quickly and make tasks easier with the new Windows 11 layout and navigation help.
It’s everything you love and more—portability, power, and the latest in processors.
2-in-1s provide power and flexibility. Touch, type, click, or pen—choose whichever fits your style.
We’re here to help you take the first steps in transitioning to our most loved operating system yet.1
Backing up your files and photos to OneDrive means you’ll have them on your new PC and won’t have to worry about losing them.6
Optimize screen space, maximize productivity, and bring balance to your desktop with Windows 11’s easy-to-use tools.
Support for Windows 7 has been discontinued, Microsoft customer service no longer is able to provide technical assistance, and your PC no longer receives security updates. It's important that you move to a modern operating system such as Windows 11, which can provide the latest security updates to help keep you and your data safer.
There are a few options for using a supported version of Windows:
PCs originally built with Windows 7 are running technology that is over 10 years old. Once you move to a new PC, there will be many aspects of Windows that you will find familiar, but also with important software and hardware innovations and capabilities that were not available a decade ago. Check out some of the innovative new features available with Windows 11 on a new computer:
Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever built, with comprehensive end-to-end security that covers antivirus, firewall, internet protections, and more. This means more security features, dashboard displays, and ongoing security updates to help safeguard against future threats—all built-in at no extra cost. To receive updates, internet access is required, and service fees may apply.
Windows 11 Home is the perfect operating system for personal and household use, while Windows 11 Pro offers all the familiar features of Windows 11 Home, plus additional features such as BitLocker, remote desktop, and domain join to support professionals.
It’s easy to bring your files and photos to a new PC using OneDrive, a cloud storage service. With internet access and a few clicks, you can back up and protect your files online in the cloud and then, when you’re ready, sync onto a new PC. Syncing the files between your new PC and the cloud allows you to store the file locally for offline use when you don’t have internet access as well as on the OneDrive service in the cloud where you can restore them if something happens. OneDrive can automatically keep the two versions in sync as changes are made.
If OneDrive is not the best fit for you, you can use an external hard drive or the Windows Backup & Restore feature. Head to aka.ms/MoveToWindows11 to learn how.Yes. Windows 11 on a pen-capable PC or tablet allows you to use a digital pen to naturally write, draw, and sign just as you do on paper. You can mark-up documents and even websites. The new pen menu can be customized with shortcuts to your favorite apps. (Digital pen sold separately.)
Lean more about the Windows Pen experience Find a device that supports Windows Pen
Your experience may be different depending on the Office version you're running. To learn more, see Windows 7 end of support and Office.
If you have an eligible device, take advantage of our trade-in program to securely and responsibly recycle your PC—and get some extra cash. This resource can help you learn the trade-in value of your used device. You can also return and recycle your device responsibly with our end-of-life management and recycling initiatives.
Have more questions? Get information about end of support for Windows 7.
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