- Access the system version through the About section in Windows Settings.
- The official support deadline for Windows 10 has been set for October 2025.
- ESU program availability to extend equipment security for an additional year.
- Importance of updating to version 22H2 to access support extensions.
Have you ever stared at your PC screen wondering if the system you're using is still secure or if it's already obsolete? It's a very common concern, especially since Microsoft frequently releases new versions, and without realizing it, your computer may have become outdated , leaving you vulnerable to vulnerabilities or viruses without your knowledge.
Knowing exactly which version of Windows you have installed isn't just a matter of technical curiosity, but a fundamental security measure . Depending on the edition you're using, you could be receiving critical patches or, conversely, you could be using a system that's no longer officially supported and needs an update.
How to find out which version of Windows you have installed
To find out the extent of support, the first step is to identify your version. Don't overcomplicate things; there are several easy ways to do this. The most direct route is to right-click on the Start button, go to Windows Settings , navigate to System, and look for the About tab . There you will see the details of the edition and specific version running on your machine.
If you prefer to use the manufacturer's tools, for example on ASUS computers, you can open the MyASUS application and look for the System Information section. It's essentially the same, but integrated into the PC management software. In both cases, pay close attention to the Windows Specifications section so you don't miss any details.
Technical specifications and storage of your device
Since you're already exploring the settings, take a look at your computer's internals. In the same System section, you can check your processor type , how much RAM you have available, and whether your architecture is 32-bit or 64-bit. This is crucial, as some system updates depend entirely on your hardware , so it's helpful to know if your PC is compatible with Windows 11.
If you notice your PC is running slowly, it might be due to low storage space. To check your remaining storage, go to Start, Windows Settings, and select the Storage option . Keeping your hard drive free of unnecessary space is crucial for security updates to install without errors.
The end of the road for Windows 10
This is where things get serious. Windows 10 was an incredible system that rescued us from the chaos of Windows 8, bringing back the Start Menu and powerful cloud integration. However, everything comes to an end, and Microsoft has set an expiration date: October 14, 2025, will be the day Windows 10 stops receiving official technical support and security updates.
This doesn't mean your computer will stop working the next day, but it will become much more vulnerable to cyberattacks . Without monthly patches, any security holes hackers find will remain open forever, making the system a risky platform for handling personal or banking data.
Options to extend the life of your system
If for some reason you can't upgrade to Windows 11 (either because your PC doesn't meet the requirements or because you simply don't want to change), there's a lifeline called Extended Security Updates (ESU ). This program extends support for another year, until October 13, 2026, so you won't be suddenly left unprotected.
For home users, there are several ways to access this benefit. Some can get it for free if they keep their settings backed up on OneDrive , while others can redeem Microsoft Rewards points or pay a fee of around thirty euros. However, it's essential that your computer is running Windows 10 version 22H2 and that you have an active administrator account.
In the business sector, things are different. Companies can extend support for up to three years, although the price increases each year. To activate this, simply go to Windows Update in the security settings; if the PC is compatible, a notification will appear with the "Enroll now" button to activate the extension plan.
Advanced tricks for curious users
If you prefer the command prompt to the mouse, there's a very useful trick to find out how long your Windows installation has been running without you having to format. Open Command Prompt and type the command ` systeminfo` . Among all the data that appears on the screen, look for the line that says " Original installation date ". It's a quick way to see if your system is a war veteran or a fresh installation.
To avoid surprises when changing versions or computers, it's highly recommended to make a thorough backup . Using services like OneDrive lets you save photos, documents, and applications in the cloud, making the transition to Windows 11 a breeze and not a data loss nightmare.
Identifying your Windows version through the manufacturer's settings or tools is the first step to prevent your PC from becoming unprotected after Windows 10 support ends in October 2025. While there are paid plans or rewards to extend security for another year through the ESU program, the most viable long-term option is to migrate to Windows 11 or upgrade your hardware to ensure your data is always safe from external threats.
