Since the release of Windows 11 in October 2021, many users have updated their system to the latest version of Windows. However, some are still afraid to take the leap, at least not yet. According to Microsoft, Windows 10 will be supported until 2025. This gives users enough time to think about whether or not they will accept the new version.
If you are one of the users still skeptical of the upgrade, this guide will answer frequently asked questions about what would happen if you didn't upgrade to Windows 11 and discuss other information you should know.
What if I don't upgrade to Windows 11 now?
There is no need to upgrade to Windows 11 right away as Microsoft will support Windows 10 until October 14, 2025. As such, Microsoft also says that you don't need to install Windows 11 updates on your Windows 10 PC right away.
Like all major updates received by Windows 10, you can defer or decline any update offered by Microsoft for the update by not starting the download and installation process in Windows Update. If you choose to do so, it means that you can still use your computer safely and expect to receive vital security updates that will keep your system protected until 2025.
Is it okay to upgrade to Windows 11 later?
Yes of course. You are in no rush to install updates right away. If you still love Windows 10, you can keep using it.
However, if you are concerned that the upgrade offer may expire or be removed if you have already declined the offer, there are still options to install Windows 11. You can always go to Settings> Windows Update and click Check for updates button if you are ready to upgrade.
You can use Media Creation Tool (MCT) or Installation Assistant to upgrade Windows 10 to 11. However, before upgrading, make sure your system is eligible for one. You must have a valid Windows 10 license, network connection, TPM 2.0 or at least TPM 1.2 and UEFI and Secure Boot functionality on your computer.
To update using the Windows 11 Setup Assistant, visit and click the button Download now in the Windows 11 Installation Assistant section. Once the download is complete, simply run the program and the installation process will begin updating your system.
If you want to create a bootable Windows 11 USB or DVD, you can download the MCT. On the same Windows 11 download page, click the Download Now button in the Create Windows 11 installation media section.
You can also download the ISO file if you want to use the operating system on a virtual machine. Just hit the Download Now button from the Windows 11 Download Disc Image (ISO) section to save a copy on your PC.
You can then use the ISO file to create a bootable USB drive.
Are there any risks of not upgrading to Windows 11 after 2025?
Yes of course. If you don't update your system before support ends in 2025, your computer will face several risks.
First, you'll miss out on the latest system features, security updates, patches, and compatibility for upcoming security features and programs. This lack of updates will mean your system will become more vulnerable to attack.
Running an outdated version of Windows will make your PC more susceptible to a host of viruses; malware that will track your activity, worms that damage your data, ransomware that will hold your sensitive information hostage, RAT software that accesses your webcam, and more.
Additionally, after a few years of operating system support has ended, some applications may also stop providing support and updates. This will leave your apps more vulnerable to security exploits as you won't be able to update to the latest version.
If you are a gamer, you may be missing out on your favorite games and any new games that will be introduced in the future. Games that use anti-cheat tools are starting to rely on the security features of Windows 11 to provide better and fairer gameplay. While they may still work on Windows 10, you can expect that in the near future they will start requiring gamers to have Windows 11.
Can I stay with Windows 10 forever?
Ever since Windows was first released, a handful of users have always preferred the older version of Windows over the new version, even though Microsoft no longer supports it. You will be surprised that many people still use older versions like Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows XP to this day. However, these users face significant security risks in their systems.
So, if you don't upgrade at all, you will not only put your system at risk, but you will also lose the new system and security features.
However, that's not all there is to it in an outdated system. You will also miss out on apps that don't support Windows 10 or earlier OS versions and have limited options on the programs you can install.
Finally, if you don't upgrade before support ends, you may have to pay for an upgrade in the future. This is something to think about, especially if you don't want to spend a lot on your computer system.
What if i can't upgrade to Windows 11?
If you've already checked your computer and realize it doesn't meet the Windows 11 minimum requirements, there are only a few options available. You can continue running Windows 10 until Microsoft ends support for the operating system, buy a new computer before the cut-off date, or upgrade hardware that Windows 11 has a problem with.
Better security with Windows 11
Windows 11 has introduced a lot of changes, so it's no surprise that many users still prefer to use Windows 10 on it. However, these changes are intended to make the system a better version of its previous iteration, making it a safer option for Windows users. But if you're still not comfortable transitioning to the new operating system, don't feel pressured. You have enough time to install the latest updates on your system before Microsoft stops supporting it.
