Windows 10 PCs are losing all support from next year, but there could be a vital lifeline that will keep things safe and stop you from needing a new laptop. Microsoft remains fully committed to ending support for Windows 10 later next year, which means millions may be forced to buy a brand-new PC. With no updates or official security patches being released for devices running this aging operating system, the main option to stay safe is to upgrade to Windows 11, but that’s not possible if your laptop doesn’t meet the correct system requirements.
A New Lifeline for Windows 10 Users
This looming deadline looks set to cause a massive headache for millions, but there could be some light at the end of the tunnel. As spotted by the team at Neowin, it appears one security firm is planning to release updates and fixes for five years after the end-of-life kicks in.
That means current Windows 10 PCs could keep going until 2030 without fear of being prone to cyber-attacks or device-breaking bugs.
Opatch Steps In
Opatch, the firm behind these updates, says it will “provide critical security patches for at least 5 more years.” These updates will start in October 2025 and will be made up of so-called “micropatches” that will fix critical and likely-to-be-exploited vulnerabilities.
To make things simple, Opatch also states that there will be no need to reboot the computer after a patch is downloaded.
“October 2025 will be a bad month for many Windows users,” Opatch said on its website. “That’s when Windows 10 will receive its last free security update from Microsoft, and the only ‘free’ way to keep using Windows securely will be to upgrade to Windows 11.
“With October 2025, Opatch will ‘security-adopt’ Windows 10 v22H2 and provide critical security patches for it for at least 5 more years – even longer if there’s demand in the market.
“We’re the only provider of unofficial security patches for Windows.”
Cost of the Service
Sadly, these updates won’t be free, with Opatch confirming that users who want to stay fully protected will need to pay around £23 per year per computer.
Expect more details on how Opatch will keep things safe next year, but it’s definitely a service to keep an eye on if you don’t want to switch to Windows 11 or buy a new device.
While the end of official support for Windows 10 is looming, the introduction of Opatch’s micropatches offers a promising solution for users who wish to extend the life of their current devices. By providing essential security updates until 2030, Opatch ensures that users can continue to safely use their Windows 10 PCs without needing to upgrade to new hardware or switch to Windows 11.
