Is Windows 10 still safe to use after support ended, just like other unsupported old Windows versions?

I can't update my laptop to Windows 11 because it doesn't meet the requirements, like Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. My laptop is almost 13 years old, and I don't have enough money to buy a new one, so I'm asking if Windows 10 is still safe to use after support ended.

Oh, and I really want to force-update my laptop to Windows 11. I'll accept any risks or issues that may occur.

Microsoft has said that they will offer an additional 12 months of security updates (only) to consumers for $30. But that's really just kicking the can down the road.

When Windows 10 becomes unsupported, it will most definitely not be safe to use on the internet. No amount of antivirus software can mitigate this, because the security weaknesses that will not be fixed are security weaknesses in the Windows code, and no third party can patch Windows code - only Microsoft can do this.

Moreover, it's fantasy to believe that one can gain Windows 11's security improvements by installing Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, because the most important security improvements in Windows 11 rely on the very hardware that is missing in an unsupported computer. For this and other reasons, I do not advise anyone to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, particularly because Microsoft recommends against it.

Hello, this is Emily.

When support ends next October, Windows will not receive security updates, but it doesn't mean you cannot use the computer anymore. You can either purchase the extended support available then to extend the security support, or use third party antivirus program options, and practice common online safety measurement (such as not downloading things you don't know, don't open attachment / link from unknown sender, etc).

If your computer is 13 years old, I wouldn't recommend clean installing Windows 11 to force the install and bypass the hardware check, because even if it installs, some hardware components maynot work properly because your computer's manufacturer likely don't have Windows 11 drivers, hence some parts, like network card, audio card, etc may not work properly.

"Extended security updates for individuals and organizations of all sizes

We understand that some of you may require additional time while moving to a new Windows 11 PC or Copilot+ PC. During this period, you may wish to take steps to help secure your existing PC.  As previously announced, we will offer our Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Enrolled PCs will continue to receive Critical and Important security updates for Windows 10; however, new features, bug fixes and technical support will no longer be available from Microsoft.

• And for the first time ever, we’re introducing an ESU program for personal use as well. The ESU program for consumers will be a one-year option available for $30. Program enrollment will be available closer to the end of support in 2025.
• Learn more about the Commercial ESU option.
• Learn more about the option for our Education customers.
• Microsoft will also continue to provide Security Intelligence Updates for Microsoft Defender Antivirus through at least October 2028. 

"

> https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/10/31/how-to-prepare-for-windows-10-end-of-support-by-moving-to-windows-11-today/

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> https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/windows-it-pro-blog/when-to-use-windows-10-extended-security-updates/ba-p/4102628<

> https://www.windowslatest.com/2024/10/31/microsoft-wants-you-to-pay-30-to-keep-using-windows-10-securely-if-you-dont-want-windows-11/

Hello Microsoft or any Expert, I am a little confuse about this expiring of windows 10 security beyond October 2025,tell me in a nutshell (1) Do you have up to 3 years to pay the $30 for security service and no updates on system for consumers? (2)Would you experience any problems on your computer?