I got an email about support ending in October 2025; isn't this still extremely early? Aren't they usually about two or three versions of windows down the line before they end updates?
I don't want windows 11 (and no I don't want Linux either, knock it off); this is ridiculous.
You should try FreeBSD /jk
I think you can shut off updates right before EoL on Windows 10 and avoid upgrading to 11 but over time your system will probably gradually become less secure. If you use it in a safe manner, I think you should mostly be ok though. You might start seeing support end for some of the software you use but that probably won't be any time soon.
the last time I used windows 10 I was completely unable to turn off Windows update, I think they took away that ability from the user at some point
Well that's just fucking dumb. I haven't used Windows since 7 so wasn't aware.