As Microsoft officially approaches the end-of-life for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, a recent mishap has rendered the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool (MCT) inoperable for Windows 10 users. This tool has traditionally served as one of the most efficient methods for transitioning to Windows 11. Recent tests conducted by Windows Latest discovered that the latest iteration of the Media Creation Tool fails to facilitate upgrades when sourced from Windows 10 systems.
If you remain on Windows 10 after Microsoft halts support, you will lose access to free security updates and bug fixes, leaving your PC susceptible to various security vulnerabilities. This critical situation amplifies the urgency for users to consider upgrading to Windows 11—provided their hardware is compatible.
To determine if your device can upgrade to Windows 11, access the Settings app on your Windows 10 PC, navigate to Update & Security, and select Windows Update. By clicking Check for updates, eligible systems will receive a prompt to upgrade. Simply click Download and install to initiate the process.
While many users opt for the outlined Windows Update method, a clean installation of Windows 11 via the Media Creation Tool may appeal to those seeking a fresh start. Unfortunately, due to the recent technical difficulties faced by the tool, this option is currently not feasible.
Issues with Windows 11 Installation Media on Windows 10
Reports from Windows Latest indicate that Microsoft has acknowledged a known issue with the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool, which fails to operate as intended on Windows 10 devices.
The most recent version, 26100.6584, released on September 29, 2025, abruptly shuts down without displaying any error notifications. Microsoft officials have officially stated, “The Windows 11 media creation tool version 26100.6584, released September 29, 2025, might not work as expected when used on Windows 10 devices. The media creation tool might close unexpectedly, displaying no error message.”
In our tests on Windows 10, we confirmed this ongoing issue:
Attempts to execute the MCT executable prompted for permission but subsequently resulted in closure, preventing any installation. All efforts to utilize the Media Creation Tool on Windows 10 systems were unsuccessful.
Microsoft has indicated that they are addressing the problem and will provide an update for the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool; however, no specific timeline has been announced.
Alternative Solutions if the Media Creation Tool Fails
If you still wish to create a bootable USB or perform a clean installation of the OS, Microsoft suggests downloading the Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) as an alternative.
To obtain this, navigate to the Microsoft download page, scroll to find the “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO) for x64 devices” section, select the applicable options, and proceed with the download. This method ultimately allows you to create a bootable installation, similar to the MCT process.
The most reliable method for installing Windows 11, besides using the Media Creation Tool, could be the Windows 11 Installation Assistant. This application streamlines the installation process by automatically configuring the download based on your current device settings.
Verify Your Windows 10 Device Compatibility
Before proceeding, it is vital to confirm that your Windows 10 PC meets the necessary requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft provides a PC Health Check application, which should be downloaded and executed. This tool will confirm if your system has the required specifications—such as a dual-core 64-bit CPU that supports TPM 2.0, UEFI with Secure Boot, a minimum of 4GB RAM, and at least 64GB of storage.
If your device does not meet these requirements, Microsoft advises recycling or trading in your Windows 10 PC.
What Are Your Options if You Choose to Stay on Windows 10?
Despite its age, Windows 10 retains a significant user base, even as Windows 11 introduces a suite of innovative AI features. To ease the transition into this new era, Microsoft is implementing significant design updates to Windows 11, effectively encouraging users to make the switch.
If upgrading to Windows 11 is not your preference, you can extend your security updates for an additional year, until October 13, 2026, through the Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
To enroll, a button labeled “Enroll now” has been integrated into the Windows Update settings. A simple click will launch a pop-up wizard to guide you through the process, which takes only a few moments. However, your enrollment is contingent upon meeting at least one of the following criteria set forth by Microsoft:
- Linking your Microsoft account.
- Utilizing 1, 000 Microsoft Rewards points to bypass OneDrive sync.
- Paying $30 to maintain a local account without Microsoft login.
Initial tests suggest that Microsoft is actively steering users toward cloud accounts; the ESU license ties to your Microsoft profile. For those operating multiple PCs under the same account, each device will require individual ESU activation.
However, there’s an additional stipulation. Microsoft indicated that if you cease logging in with the same Microsoft account for over 60 days, your Windows 10 ESU status will expire, necessitating re-enrollment.
Special Considerations for Users in the EU
In Europe, Microsoft has made adjustments to the ESU process. While a Microsoft account is still compulsory, the requirement for OneDrive sync has been waived in compliance with EU regulations. Consequently, users in the EU encounter a more straightforward enrollment prompt without references to OneDrive or Rewards points.
Interestingly, should you wish to bypass any requirements, users can change their system’s region to an EU country to access simplified prompts before reverting it back.
Ultimately, with Microsoft keen on transitioning users to Windows 11, the recent breakdown of a key upgrade pathway shortly before Windows 10’s official end-of-life appears to be an error. A resolution is anticipated soon.
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