Windows 10 End of Service: Fix the Warning

If you see “Your version of Windows 10 is nearing the end of service,” it means your current Windows 10 release (usually a Home or Pro edition) has a support deadline approaching, and Microsoft will stop providing security updates for it. The fix is to update to a supported Windows 10 version (like 22H2) or upgrade to Windows 11 before the deadline passes.

What “End of Service” Actually Means

Windows 10 uses a servicing model where each feature update (like version 21H2 or 22H2) is supported for a set period. For Home and Pro editions, that period is typically 18 months from the release date. After that, Microsoft no longer issues security patches, bug fixes, or technical support for that specific version. Your PC will keep working, but it becomes more vulnerable to new malware and exploits because known security holes won’t be patched.

The warning message appears when your installed version is within a few months of that cutoff. It’s not a virus or a scam — it’s a legitimate notification from Windows Update. The underlying goal is to push you toward a newer, still-supported version so you stay protected.

Why You’re Seeing the Warning

Windows 10 versions are named by year and half (e.g., 21H2 = second half of 2021). Each has a support lifecycle:

Version 21H2 (Home/Pro) — end of service June 2023
Version 22H2 (Home/Pro) — end of service October 2025 (this is the final Windows 10 version)

If your PC is still on 21H2 or earlier, you’ll get the warning. Even if you’re on 22H2, you may see it because that version itself reaches end of service in October 2025. The warning is simply telling you that your current release is no longer receiving updates.

How to Fix the Warning (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to resolve it, from simplest to most involved:

Check your current version: Press Win + R, type winver, and press Enter. A dialog shows your version and build number.
Run Windows Update: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click “Check for updates.” If a newer feature update is available, it will download and install automatically.
Install the 22H2 feature update: If Windows Update doesn’t offer it automatically, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click “Download and install” under the “Feature update to Windows 10, version 22H2” section.
Use the Update Assistant: If the above fails, download the Windows 10 Update Assistant from Microsoft’s official website. Run it, and it will walk you through upgrading to 22H2.
Upgrade to Windows 11: If your PC meets the requirements (TPM 2.0, compatible CPU, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage), use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant or Windows Update to upgrade. This is the long-term fix because Windows 10 ends support entirely on October 14, 2025.

What If You Can’t Update to Windows 11?

Many older PCs don’t meet Windows 11’s hardware requirements, particularly TPM 2.0 and a supported CPU. If that’s your situation, you have a few options:

Stay on Windows 10 22H2 — it will keep working after October 2025, but you’ll stop getting security updates. This is risky for internet-connected machines.
Purchase an Extended Security Update (ESU) program — Microsoft offers paid ESUs for individuals and businesses, extending security patches for up to three years. In 2024, Microsoft announced a one-year ESU for consumers (price not yet announced).
Switch to a Linux distribution — Ubuntu or Linux Mint are free and run well on older hardware. This is a bigger change but gives you ongoing security updates.
Keep using Windows 10 offline — If you disconnect from the internet and only use it for offline tasks, the risk is lower, but not zero.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

Several things people try don’t actually fix the problem:

Ignoring the warning — It won’t go away on its own. The notification will keep appearing until you update or upgrade.
Disabling Windows Update — This stops the warning but also stops security patches, making your PC more vulnerable.
Installing a random “Windows 10 fix” tool — Many third-party tools claiming to “fix” end-of-service warnings are malware or scams. Only use official Microsoft tools.
Assuming the warning means Windows 10 is dead — It only means your version is unsupported. Windows 10 as a whole is supported until October 2025, and even then, the OS itself will still function.

How to Check if You’re Already on 22H2

Open Settings > System > About. Under “Windows specifications,” you’ll see “Version.” If it says 22H2, you’re on the final Windows 10 release. If it says anything earlier (21H2, 21H1, etc.), you need to update. Also check “OS Build” — for 22H2, it should be 19045.x. If you’re on 19044.x or lower, you’re on an older version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the “nearing end of service” warning a virus?
No. It’s a legitimate Windows notification. However, be cautious of pop-ups that mimic it but ask you to call a number or download a third-party tool — those are scams.

Can I still use Windows 10 after October 2025?
Yes, your PC will continue to boot and run. But without security updates, it will become increasingly vulnerable to malware and exploits. Microsoft recommends upgrading or buying extended support.

How do I upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
If your PC meets the requirements, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. You’ll see “Upgrade to Windows 11” if eligible. Alternatively, use the Windows 11 Installation Assistant from Microsoft’s website.

What if my PC doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements?
You can stay on Windows 10 22H2, but you’ll lose security updates after October 2025. Consider the ESU program, switching to Linux, or using the PC offline. Some people bypass TPM checks, but that’s unsupported and may cause stability issues.

Will the warning disappear after I update to 22H2?
Yes, if you’re on an earlier version, updating to 22H2 will clear the warning. But after October 2025, you may see a new warning about Windows 10 end of support entirely.

How long does the 22H2 update take?
It usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on your internet speed and PC performance. Your PC will restart during the process, so save your work and plug in your laptop.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →