Windows 10 Support is Ending

Windows 10 has been a reliable workhorse for individuals and businesses alike for years. However, like all software, its lifecycle is coming to an end. Microsoft has officially announced the end of support date for Windows 10: October 14th, 2025.

This might seem distant, but for businesses, the time to start planning is now. Continuing to use Windows 10 after this date without a plan carries significant risks.

What Does "End of Support" Mean?

End of Support or EOS is the term Microsoft uses to announce the cut-off date for when they will provide updates and support.

• No more security updates: This is the most critical point. Without security patches, PCs become increasingly vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. New vulnerabilities discovered after October 14, 2025, will not be fixed.
• No more non-security updates: Bug fixes, performance improvements, and feature updates will also cease.
• No technical support: Microsoft support will no longer assist with Windows 10 issues.
• Potential compliance issues: Many industries have regulations requiring the use of supported and patched operating systems. Running Windows 10 post-EOS could lead to non-compliance and potential penalties.

Options for Windows 10 Users (Especially businesses)

Businesses relying on Windows 10 have several paths forward:

• Upgrade eligible PCs to Windows 11: This is the recommended path for most. Windows 11 offers enhanced security, a modern interface, and new productivity features. However, not all existing hardware meets Windows 11's stricter system requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, specific CPUs). A thorough hardware assessment is crucial.
• Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU): For businesses unable to upgrade immediately (e.g., due to critical legacy software or hardware incompatibility), Microsoft offers the ESU program. This provides security updates only for a limited time (up to three years) at an annual, per-device cost that increases each year. ESU is a temporary stopgap, not a long-term solution. It buys time but does not provide feature updates or full support.
• Replace hardware with new Windows 11 PCs: For devices that don't meet Windows 11 requirements or are nearing the end of their own lifecycle, purchasing new PCs with Windows 11 pre-installed is often the most cost-effective and secure long-term strategy.

Why should businesses prioritise the upgrade to Windows 11?

For businesses, the transition is not just about avoiding security risks; it is about:

• Maintaining productivity: Newer hardware running Windows 11 generally offers better performance. Windows 11 also includes features like Snap Layouts, Desktops, Widgets, and Copilot (Microsoft’s AI tool).
• Better integration: Tighter integration with Microsoft 365 including Microsoft Teams and Azure cloud services.
• Ensuring security: Windows 11 was built with modern security threats in mind, incorporating features like hardware-based isolation (VBS), enhanced phishing protection, and mandatory TPM 2.0.
• Staying compliant: Upgrading ensures continued compliance with industry regulations and data protection standards.
• Futureproofing: Moving to the current OS ensures compatibility with the latest software and hardware innovations and positions the business for future technological advancements.

Update before it is too late

Migrating an entire fleet of business computers from Windows 10 to Windows 11 (or managing an ESU strategy) is a complex undertaking. Partnering with a reputable IT support company such as D8A means you can focus on continuing to run the business whilst we upgrade and deploy the latest OS.

We can develop a phased migration plan to minimise disruption as well as offering peace of mind by ensuring all data is backed up and securely migrated during the transition period.

Start the conversation now. Our team of experts here at D8A are ready to assist you with upgrading to the latest version of Microsoft Windows.