This fall marks the end of life for Windows 10 as defined by Microsoft, with October 14 being the cutoff for feature updates. Following this date, security and stability updates will also be limited, presenting potential risks that users need to consider now. To assist users in navigating the transition from Windows 10, Adam Patrick Murray conversed with ethical hacker Mike Danseglio to explore available options. Their aim was to identify the best strategies for maintaining security updates and patches, regardless of hardware age.
As AI tools exponentially increase the speed and scale of cyberattacks, the discovery and exploitation of vulnerabilities are becoming ever easier. The duo structured their discussion as a decision tree with two primary branches: PCs that can upgrade to Windows 11 and those that cannot. For the former category, Mike recommends an upgrade to Windows 11 before the October deadline, emphasizing that doing so will ensure ongoing access to security patches. For users whose older PCs are not eligible for the upgrade, five potential paths emerge, though Mike identifies only three as sensible choices.
These options include:
1. Doing nothing
2. Purchasing a new device
3. Paying for updates
4.
Modifying your Windows installation
5. Installing another operating system
Choosing to do nothing exposes users to increasing vulnerabilities within Windows 10, inviting attackers to exploit weaknesses that could compromise data or even render hardware unusable. While purchasing a new device eliminates security concerns due to the installation of Windows 11, it can be an expensive solution. Mike also firmly advises against forcing Windows 11 onto incompatible machines or making use of third-party Windows 10 security patches, declaring a “hard no” on these options.
A more viable solution for those interested in exploring software alternatives might be to install another operating system entirely. For additional insights into these options, the video of their discussion highlights the nuances of online security in accessible terms, making it valuable for anyone interested in PCs and PC hardware.