Old PC with No TPM/Secure Boot – What Are My Options After Windows 10 Ends in 2025?

Question

My current PC is equipped with 4GB of RAM, an Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 processor, and an integrated Intel Q45/Q43 Express chipset. I'm currently running Windows 10, but I understand that Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Given that this date is approaching, I'm trying to explore my upgrade options.

Unfortunately, my system does not support TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, which I know are minimum requirements for officially installing Windows 11. Given these limitations, I’m wondering:

Is there any way to upgrade to Windows 11 on my current hardware, either officially or unofficially (e.g., bypassing requirements)?

Are there any lightweight or modified versions of Windows 11 (such as Tiny11 or other stripped-down editions) that can run reasonably well on older systems like mine?

If Windows 11 is not a practical option, what alternative operating systems would you recommend that are lightweight, secure, and user-friendly for basic tasks like web browsing and document editing?

I’m trying to ensure my system remains usable and secure after Windows 10 reaches end-of-life. I’d appreciate any guidance on the best course of action.

Answer 1

Hi,

You get updates until 2026 if you use MSA on your Windows 10 computer. Ofcourse bypassing exists but this is something we don't recommend.

https://www.yourwindowsguide.com/2025/06/windows-10-extended-updates-program.html

Free ESU for Personal Users

If you use a personal Windows 10 PC, you can enroll for one year of ESU at no additional cost as told by Microsoft yesterday.. An enrollment wizard, rolling out from July and broadly available by mid-August, will present you with three options:

• Use Windows Backup to sync your settings to the cloud.
• Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points.
• Pay $30 USD (or local equivalent).

After selecting an option, your PC will be enrolled for ESU coverage from October 15, 2025, through October 13, 2026.

I hope this information is helpful.