How To Get Windows 11 For Free Before Windows 10 Support Ends

Forbes - Jan 26th, 2025
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Microsoft has announced a phased rollout of a free upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, version 24H2, for eligible devices. This move comes as security support for Windows 10 is set to end on October 14, leaving many users vulnerable to security threats unless they take advantage of the upgrade. To check eligibility, users can navigate to Settings|Windows Update and select the check for updates option. If eligible, the option to download and install Windows 11 will appear, allowing users to upgrade without cost.

The significance of this upgrade is rooted in the escalating security threats facing Windows users, including attacks from hackers and exploits of zero-day vulnerabilities. With the end-of-support deadline looming, this free upgrade provides a crucial opportunity for users to enhance their security landscape without resorting to potentially risky illegal copies. Microsoft's quiet announcement underscores the importance of staying informed via their Windows release health support pages, where further updates on the rollout will be shared.

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RATING

7.0
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and relevant overview of the need to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, emphasizing the security risks associated with outdated software. It accurately reports on Microsoft's end-of-support timeline and the availability of a free upgrade, making it a valuable resource for Windows users. However, the article could improve by providing more detailed verification of its claims, including direct links to official sources and a broader range of perspectives on potential challenges and ethical considerations. The article is clear and well-structured, but additional context and interactive elements could enhance reader engagement and comprehension. Overall, the article is informative and impactful, with room for improvement in balance, source quality, and transparency.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story accurately reports that Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, which aligns with Microsoft's official announcements. It also correctly states that a free upgrade to Windows 11 is available for eligible devices, confirmed by Microsoft's guidelines on upgrading. However, the article's mention of the 'phased rollout' of Windows 11 24H2 lacks specific details, which could be clarified with more precise information from Microsoft's official communications. The claim about illegitimate copies of Windows 11 being risky due to malware is generally accurate but would benefit from more detailed examples or statistics to substantiate the risk level. Overall, the article is factually accurate but could improve by providing more detailed verification for some claims.

7
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the benefits and processes of upgrading to Windows 11, with a strong emphasis on security risks associated with using outdated or illegitimate software. This perspective is important, but the article could be more balanced by discussing potential drawbacks or challenges users might face when upgrading, such as hardware compatibility issues or user interface changes. Additionally, while it mentions the risk of malware from cracked copies, it doesn't explore other legitimate concerns users might have, like data privacy or Microsoft's data collection practices. Including a broader range of perspectives would provide a more comprehensive view of the topic.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow that guides readers through the importance of upgrading to Windows 11, the risks of not doing so, and the steps to check for eligibility. The language is straightforward and accessible, making the information easy to understand for a general audience. However, the article could benefit from more detailed explanations or examples, particularly regarding the risks of using illegitimate copies of Windows, to enhance reader comprehension. Overall, the article is clear but could be improved with additional context and detail.

6
Source quality

The article cites Microsoft's announcements and support pages as its primary sources, which are credible and authoritative. However, it lacks direct links or references to these sources, which would enhance its reliability. The article does not mention consulting any third-party cybersecurity experts or analysts to corroborate claims about security risks associated with illegitimate copies of Windows, which could provide additional depth and credibility. Including a wider range of sources, such as cybersecurity experts or user testimonials, would strengthen the article's authority and reliability.

6
Transparency

The article is somewhat transparent in its claims, particularly regarding the end of support for Windows 10 and the availability of a free upgrade to Windows 11. However, it could improve transparency by providing direct links to Microsoft's official announcements or support pages. Additionally, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as whether the author has any affiliations with Microsoft. Providing more context about the sources of information and any potential biases would enhance the article's transparency and help readers better assess its impartiality.

Sources

  1. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/get-windows-11
  2. https://source.colostate.edu/support-for-microsoft-windows-10-ending-in-october-2025/
  3. https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/how-to-obtain-windows-11-for-free-as-a-windows-10/b57d0d29-f9c7-4fa7-a6f2-8292580a2cc3
  4. https://www.laptopmag.com/software/windows-10-extended-support-updates
  5. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/1292554/how-to-use-the-free-upgrade-from-windows-10-pro-to