As the curtain slowly draws on Windows 10, Microsoft is ramping up its efforts to get users to transition to Windows 11, highlighting 2025 as "the year of the Windows 11 PC refresh." In a recent push, the tech giant is reminding users of the imminent end of Windows 10 support and is promoting a limited-time offer to upgrade to Windows 11 for free.
A Timely Transition
With mainstream support for Windows 10 nearing its end, Microsoft is emphasizing the importance of staying current with their latest operating system. For users who want to upgrade without purchasing new hardware, the first step is checking if their current systems meet the necessary hardware requirements for Windows 11, which remain stringent as Microsoft shows no signs of backing down on these specifications.Alternative Options for Incompatible Systems
For those whose devices do not meet these criteria and are unable to invest in new hardware, Microsoft offers a contingency. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program provides an additional 12 months of support at $30, covering critical security updates, though it excludes new feature additions, non-security updates, and design changes.
Creating Urgency with a Limited-Time Offer
Drawing on strategies from the past, Microsoft is creating a sense of urgency by marketing the upgrade to Windows 11 as "free for a limited time only." This tactic mirrors their approach with Windows 10, which was initially offered for free for one year to users of Windows 7 and 8/8.1. Despite the expiration of this offer, the free upgrade path remained open for several years, only closing recently.What Happens Post-October 2025?
The future of the free upgrade offer remains uncertain beyond October 15, 2025. There is speculation that, given the slower adoption rate of Windows 11 compared to its predecessor, Microsoft might extend the free upgrade offer to encourage more users to make the switch, provided they have compatible hardware. If not, users may need to look at alternatives, including switching to different operating systems like Linux.