Don’t Want to Upgrade to Windows 11? Here’s How 0patch Can Keep Your Windows 10 Secure Beyond October 2025

Oh, and it's pronounced "Zero Patch", meaning you don't have to do anything to get the patches, besides have their software installed, not even reboot in many cases.

Anyway, as they point out, "October 2025 will be a bad month for many Windows users." That’s when Microsoft's last free security update for Windows 10 will roll out.

For some of us, upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t an option we’re keen on, either because of compatibility issues or simply because we love the familiarity of Windows 10.

Why We Might Not Want to Upgrade

There are several reasons why we might be hesitant to make the switch to Windows 11. Many users are comfortable with the Windows 10 interface and don't want to navigate a new setup with buttons moved around or applications that suddenly vanish. Let's not ignore the frustrations of bloatware, Start Menu ads, and growing privacy concerns.

But it’s not just about comfort; critical applications—like those used in medical devices, manufacturing, or even ATMs—may not run on Windows 11. And then there’s hardware compatibility.

A staggering 240 million computers worldwide may not meet the new hardware requirements for Windows 11. So, what does this mean for us Windows 10 users come October 2025?

The Reality Post-October 2025

Well, here’s the not-so-fun part: Windows 10 machines will become more vulnerable without proactive measures as new security risks emerge.

0patch notes that leaving your Windows 10 system unpatched after October 2025 will likely expose it to critical vulnerabilities within the first month. It’s a gradual decline into potential chaos, reminiscent of what happened to Windows 7 users after their support ended in January 2020.

Your Options Moving Forward

So, what can you do to keep your Windows 10 system secure? You essentially have two options:

Option 1: Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU)

If you qualify, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) that will keep your system patched for a limited time—at a price. It’s a reasonable $30 for one year for consumers. However, commercial organizations can shell out a whopping $427 for three years of updates. The 0patch team humorously highlights this when they say,

“Opting for Extended Security Updates will keep you on the familiar monthly ‘update + reboot’ cycle.” This can add up quickly, especially for businesses managing large networks.

Option 2: 0patch to the Rescue!

Here’s where 0patch steps in. They are gearing up to "security-adopt” Windows 10 v22H2 when official support ends, promising at least five more years of critical security patches. As they emphasize,

“We’re the only provider of unofficial security patches for Windows,” which is a lifeline for those of us who want to stick with a familiar system without falling victim to vulnerabilities.

Their approach involves providing "micro patches" for critical vulnerabilities that emerge post-October 2025. These micropatches are tiny fixes applied directly to running processes in memory—meaning no rebooting is required. You won’t even notice the patching happening while you’re busy writing a document!

What’s even more incredible? 0patch doesn’t just stop at fixing vulnerabilities; it also covers critical “0day” (Zero-Day) security patches, including those not yet addressed by official patches. They even go a step further and provide certain patches in customer demand, but that apparently isn't a priority for Microsoft.

They’ve successfully patched critical issues before Microsoft even got around to it!

Cost-Effective Security

So, how much will this cost you? 0patch offers two plans:

- 0patch PRO for individuals and small businesses at €24.95 (around $27 USD) per computer per year.
- 0patch Enterprise for larger organizations at €34.95 per computer annually.

These prices may adjust, but subscribers can lock in their current rates for two additional years, which is smart given the rising costs of Microsoft’s updates.

Final Thoughts

Sure, that blog post is a sales pitch on their end, but it's a compelling one.

With 0patch, you’re not just getting a safety net but a viable alternative to Microsoft’s expensive security updates. They fill a crucial niche by keeping Windows 10 secure, even as Microsoft pushes users towards newer, sometimes unwanted options.

For just 25 EUR a year ($37 CAD), you can extend the security of your beloved Windows 10 for at least another five years. With their innovative, user-friendly patching system, you can enjoy your Windows 10 experience without the constant interruptions of Microsoft’s update cycle.

So, if you’re still rocking Windows 10, it’s time to consider your options—after all, You’ve got a year before the last update for Windows 10, so take the time to explore your options.

But at least we have the peace of mind that 0Patch, and possibly other options that appear over time, will keep our Windows 10 computers secure for a few more years.