Windows 10 can still be used safely provided users do not skip security updates and patches, technology publication BGR reported.
Official support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, but software developer Microsoft has continued releasing security updates as an exception. The technology website explained that relying on the legacy operating system without regular updates can cause system failures and leave devices vulnerable to hacking.
Operating system updates supply critical code patches that protect devices from emerging security vulnerabilities. Microsoft, the American technology company that launched Windows 10 in 2015, decided to extend limited support due to distribution difficulties with its successor, Windows 11. BGR noted that while this extension keeps Windows 10 safe, users must install every patch.
Secure Boot certificates and system risks
Beside installing patches, BGR emphasized that users must ensure their operating system maintains up to date Secure Boot certificates. Secure Boot is a firmware security standard that prevents unauthorized software from executing during system startup. The previous certificates were issued in 2011 and expired in June 2026, making current updates vital for system integrity.
As of mid 2026, Windows 10 remains an acceptable alternative to Windows 11 for desktop computer users. However, BGR noted that individuals who do not wish to remain on the legacy version or upgrade to Windows 11 can switch to alternative operating systems such as Linux or macOS. Linux is a free open source platform, while macOS is Apple proprietary operating system for Mac computers.
Hardware recommendations and memory demands
The software security advice follows separate guidance for computer buyers published in early August by technology magazine PCMag. Journalists at the publication urged consumers not to purchase computers with 8 gigabytes of random access memory, stating that amount of RAM is insufficient for most device usage scenarios.
Random access memory serves as a computer short term workspace, holding data that active applications require for quick processing. With modern applications requiring increasing hardware resources, low memory configurations can limit system speed and multitasking capabilities.
