You can still use Windows 10 on your current PC even though Windows 11 is available, but many older machines are not compatible with the newer operating system. Windows 11 requires specific hardware, including TPM 2.0 and UEFI firmware with Secure Boot.
Why Windows 10 Is Still So Prevalent
Microsoft officially retired Windows 10 almost ten months ago, yet it still holds a significant user base. In July 2026, StatCounter reported that 29.83 percent of worldwide Windows desktop web usage came from Windows 10.
This figure represents nearly three in ten users still operating on the older system. Despite Windows 11 being available for nearly five years, this persistent usage indicates that the transition is not complete.
The continued prevalence of Windows 10 suggests that many users have reasons to stick with it, whether due to hardware limitations or a reluctance to change a familiar setup.
Windows 11 Hardware Compatibility Hurdles
Many older PCs that are still perfectly functional cannot upgrade to Windows 11 due to strict hardware requirements. These machines may perform well for everyday tasks like browsing and running office applications but fail Microsoft’s compatibility checks.
Windows 11 mandates TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and a processor from Microsoft’s approved list. These security-focused requirements often exclude hardware that is only a few years old but doesn’t meet the new standards.
Consequently, a significant number of older computers are left outside the official upgrade path. This is despite their performance being adequate for many users’ needs, leaving them stuck on Windows 10.
Extended Support and Workarounds for Windows 10
Regular support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. This means free software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes are no longer provided for PCs outside of Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
However, there are ways to get Windows 11 running on older computers, though this does not grant official support. Microsoft also introduced a consumer ESU option in October 2024, initially priced at $30 for a one-year extension.
Eligible Windows 10 22H2 consumer PCs can now receive critical security updates through October 12, 2027. Certain enrollment methods may even allow users to access this extended coverage without paying the original fee.
User Interface Changes and Setup Friction
Windows 11 introduced interface changes that disrupted familiar workflows for long-time Windows users. For example, the taskbar, which could be moved to any edge of the screen in Windows 10, lacked this flexibility in Windows 11 for years.
Microsoft only began previewing movable taskbar functionality for Windows Insiders in May 2026. This feature was still under development and came with limitations, indicating a slow return of previously standard options.
Additionally, Windows 11 Home and Pro require an internet connection and a Microsoft account during initial setup. These changes, while not making Windows 11 unusable, add friction for users who may already be satisfied with their current Windows 10 setup.
Alternatives to Windows 11 for Older Hardware
For PCs that do not meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements, Linux presents a viable alternative. A computer that falls short of Windows 11’s standards can often run a current Linux distribution smoothly.
Linux Mint is a particularly user-friendly option that can even be tested from a USB drive before installation. This allows users to experience a modern operating system on older hardware without committing to a full install.
While not every Windows 10 user will switch to Linux, it offers an accessible escape hatch for machines that would otherwise be left behind. It highlights the contrast between modern OS requirements and the continued functionality of capable hardware.
Key Windows 10 and 11 Facts
- Windows 10 support officially ended on October 14, 2025, but usage remains high.
- In July 2026, 29.83% of worldwide Windows desktop web usage was from Windows 10.
- Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, and a compatible processor.
- Microsoft is providing extended security updates for eligible Windows 10 PCs until October 12, 2027.
- Windows 10 allowed taskbar customization that Windows 11 lacked for years, with improvements only recently previewed.
Numbered Steps
- Assess Hardware Compatibility: Check if your PC meets Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, UEFI with Secure Boot, compatible CPU).
- Consider Extended Support for Windows 10: If incompatible or unwilling to upgrade, ensure you are aware of Extended Security Updates until October 12, 2027.
- Explore Windows 11 Workarounds (Use with Caution): If your hardware is borderline, research methods to install Windows 11, understanding it won’t be officially supported.
- Evaluate User Interface Changes: Familiarize yourself with Windows 11’s interface differences, particularly taskbar behavior, if considering an upgrade.
- Investigate Linux Alternatives: For incompatible hardware, consider installing a Linux distribution like Linux Mint, which can be tested from a USB drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Windows 10 still so widely used?
Despite its official end of support on October 14, 2025, Windows 10 remains prevalent due to hardware compatibility issues with Windows 11 and user reluctance to disrupt familiar setups.
Can my older PC upgrade to Windows 11?
Your PC may not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 if it lacks TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware with Secure Boot, or a processor on Microsoft’s compatibility list, even if it still performs well.
Are there ways to keep Windows 10 secure or use unsupported PCs?
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for eligible Windows 10 PCs until October 12, 2027. You can also install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, though it won’t be officially recognized.
What user interface changes might make people stick with Windows 10?
Windows 11 altered familiar interfaces, such as the taskbar, which was movable in Windows 10 but not in Windows 11 for years. Windows 11 also requires a Microsoft account for initial setup.
What can I do if my PC is not compatible with Windows 11?
If your PC cannot run Windows 11, consider installing a Linux distribution like Linux Mint, which can often run well on older hardware and can be tested from a USB drive.
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