Don’t Buy a New PC: How to Secure Windows 10 Forever with 0patch (Free Guide)


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As of November 2025, 0patch is widely considered the standard solution for Windows 10 security. Below is a guide based on their official documentation and current user reports on How to Secure Windows 10 Forever with 0patch.

The date has passed. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10.

If you are still using it, you’ve likely seen the full-screen “Your PC is not secure” warning. Microsoft’s solution is simple: they want you to buy a new PC or pay a subscription for Extended Security Updates (ESU), which starts at around $30 per year and increases annually.

For a design agency or a freelancer, that is an expense. For a student or casual user, it is unnecessary.

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Your hardware isn’t broken. Your display is fine. You don’t need to throw away a perfectly good laptop because of a software expiration date.

There is a way to keep Windows 10 secure, for free, using a trusted enterprise tool called 0patch. Here is the step-by-step guide to setting it up in under 10 minutes.

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Windows 10 desktop with 0patch website open

What is 0patch? (And Why It’s Safe)

Most people think a security update means downloading a large file, waiting several minutes, and restarting the computer.

0patch works differently. It uses a technology called micropatching. Instead of replacing big system files, 0patch injects tiny snippets of code directly into memory to fix vulnerabilities while the system is running.

  • No reboots required

  • Legitimate and trusted (not a hack or crack)

  • Backed by ACROS Security, a long-standing cybersecurity vendor

  • Free plan available for personal use

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Step 1: Prepare Your System

Before installing 0patch, make sure your Windows 10 is fully updated.

  1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update

  2. Click Check for updates

  3. Install all updates available up to October 2025

  4. When Windows reports “You’re up to date,” you’re ready to install 0patch

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Step 2: Create a Free 0patch Account

Creating an account lets you register the 0patch agent.

  1. Visit the 0patch Central website

  2. Click Sign Up

  3. Create the account without adding a credit card

  4. In the dashboard, check the box for Personal / Educational Use to activate Free Mode

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Step 3: Install the 0patch Agent

This step may trigger warnings because the software interacts with protected system areas.

  1. Log in to your 0patch dashboard

  2. Download the agent

  3. Run the installer (MSI file)

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If you see “Windows protected your PC” or a SmartScreen alert:

  • Click More Info

  • Click Run Anyway

You can test files on multiple scanners, to make sure its cleaniness. The warning may appear because 0patch modifies memory to apply patches in real time.

Finish the installation. It takes less than a minute.

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Step 4: Verify You Are Secure

Once installed, you only need to check the agent status.

  1. Look for the 0patch icon in the system tray

  2. A green icon means everything is working

  3. An orange or red icon means you should open the app and click Sync

You can view patched applications in the console. You will likely find patches applied to popular third-party tools such as Zoom, WinRAR, and Adobe Reader.

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Beyond 0patch: Extra Steps to Harden Windows 10

0patch protects the operating system. These steps help protect your browsing and software environment.

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1. Switch to a Hardened Browser

If you are using an outdated Chrome version, switch to Firefox or Zen Browser. Both continue offering modern security updates for Windows 10.

2. Remove Inactive Software

Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features and uninstall unused apps. Look for:

  • Old Java

  • QuickTime

  • Adobe Flash

  • Old torrent clients

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3. Use a Standard User Account

Create a Standard (non-Admin) account for daily use. Malware cannot install itself easily without admin rights.

0patch Console showing License: Free

Microsoft ESU vs. 0patch

FeatureMicrosoft ESU0patch (Free)
Cost$30–$61 per yearFree
UpdatesRequires restartNo restart needed
CoverageWindows OS onlyWindows + third-party apps
Support DurationEnds 2028Ongoing (5+ years commitment)

How to Save a Windows 10 PC

Final Thoughts: Is It Safe?

For freelancers, students, designers, and everyday users, yes.

Windows 10 (22H2) combined with 0patch and a strong browser like Firefox or Zen creates a security setup that is often stronger than a default Windows 11 installation.

Don’t let an end-of-life warning pressure you into buying a new laptop. Use 0patch, protect your system, and keep your hardware running for years.

Have you tested 0patch on your device?