Release, Active Support & Security Support End Dates for Windows Operating Systems
If your computer has a Intel Atom, Celeron (excluding modern N processors) or Pentium processor then it is not practical for more than very basic use and the systems are usually restricted to low RAM and slow Hard Drive. Notebooks generally have a shorter life span than full Laptops, due to smaller size.
Intel Core i3, i5 ,i7, i9 & Ryzen 3, 5, 7 & 9 generally have a better performance life and improved upgrade options.
Hard Drives: 5400rpm & 7200rpm are old style optical hard drives and probably at end of life. Read/Write Speeds 30-120 MB/s - often used for external storage where use is limited. Replaced as standard internal drive several years ago.
SATA SSD (Cased or M.2 B+M connector) 500-550 MB/s - common in older, or budget computers.
NVMe 3000+ MB/s - standard for modern computers
2026/7? - Windows 12 - release date to be confirmed
04 Oct 2021 - Windows 11 (OS version 10.0.2, 21H2+) - current version receiving regular updates and support (60.44*)
These computers should be good for at least another 2-5 years, depending on age.
Hard Drive & Memory upgrades may be suggested to prolong the life.
Any computer not running or able to run Window 11 should be replaced for security and performance reasons. Your computer will also be at least 4 years old, probably even older, and barely fit for purpose.
29 Jul 2015 - Windows 10 (OS version 10.0.1, 1507-22H2) - active/security support ended 14 Oct 2025 (38.25*)
Extended security updates to 10 Oct 2028
These computers could be good for at least another 2-3 years, depending on age.
Hard Drive & Memory upgrades may be suggested to prolong the life.
IMPORTANT: There will be no support from Microsoft for Windows 10 after 14th October so there may be security risks using your computer after that date. Software compatibility is currently almost universal but ensure that you are always using updated versions to reduce security risks.
AUG 2025: There is a 1 year extension to October 2026 (ESU) that is free if you log in with a Microsoft Account or £30USD if you only use a local account (info)
13 Nov 2013 - Windows 8.1 (OS version 6.3) - active/security support ended 9 Jan 2018 / 10 Jan 2023 (0..17*)
30 Oct 2012 - Windows 8 (OS version 6.2) - active/security support ended 12 Jan 2016 (0.06*)
22 Feb 2011 - Windows 7 (OS version 6.1) - active/security support ended 13 Jan 2015 / 14 Jan 2020 (0.93*)
These computers can be given a checkup but they will need replacing, as Windows is no longer be updated and the computer hardware is very old and under powered for modern computing. Some software updates and upgrades may be possible.
29 Apr 2009 - Windows Vista (OS version 6.0) - active/security support ended 10 Apr 2012 / 11 Apr 2017 (0.09*)
21 Apr 2008 - Windows XP SP3 (OS version 5.1) - active/security support ended 14 Apr 2009 / 08 Apr 2014
These computers are no longer practical for any use. Files should be copied to a USB Drive and copied to a new computer. I can provide a USB drive and copy the files for £15.
*UK market share as at July 2025, according to statcounter.com