Windows 10 End of Life: Key Information & Advice

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on 14th October 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support — meaning any device still running it will be more vulnerable to cyber threats and potentially non-compliant with modern IT standards.

If your business is still using Windows 10 PCs, now is the time to plan your upgrade strategy. In this guide, we explain what “end of life” actually means, the risks of delaying action, and what steps you should take to ensure your systems remain secure and supported.

Understanding Windows 10 End of Life

Windows 10, since its launch in July 2015, has been a cornerstone for business and personal computing across the globe. However, like all technology, it has a lifecycle, which includes an end of support or “end of life”. Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of life on 14 October 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive updates or support, including critical security updates, from Microsoft.

The cessation of support raises significant security and compliance issues. Operating systems that do not receive regular updates are vulnerable to security threats, potentially putting business data and IT infrastructure at risk. Moreover, regulatory frameworks often require businesses to use supported software to meet compliance standards.

Preparing for the Transition

The transition from Windows 10 requires careful planning and consideration. Here are the steps you can take to prepare for this change:

• Assessment and Inventory: The first step in preparation is to assess your current IT environment. Identify how many devices are running Windows 10 and gauge the hardware’s readiness for an upgrade.
• Understanding Your Options: Post Windows 10, the primary route for many will be upgrading to Windows 11. This will depend on whether your current hardware meets the system requirements for Windows 11. If not, you might consider hardware upgrades or replacements.
• Developing a Migration Plan: Transitioning to a new operating system is not merely an upgrade but a critical shift that involves detailed planning. This includes managing data backups, application compatibility checks, and user training to adapt to the new system seamlessly.
• Timeline and Budgeting: Create a realistic timeline for the transition, factoring in the necessary budget allocations for hardware upgrades and software licensing. Early planning can help mitigate the financial impact of the transition.
• Continuous Monitoring and Support: Even after transitioning, continuous monitoring of your new system’s performance and security is crucial. Ensure you have the right support in place to address any issues promptly.

What Are the Risks of Staying on Windows 10 After 2025?

Running unsupported operating systems exposes your business to a range of risks:

1. Increased Security Vulnerabilities

Without regular security patches, Windows 10 will become a prime target for cybercriminals. Exploits discovered after October 2025 will remain unpatched.

2. Compliance Issues

Many data protection and security standards require the use of supported systems. Sticking with Windows 10 could put you in breach of Cyber Essentials, GDPR, or even insurance requirements.

3. Software Incompatibility

New applications and updates will eventually stop supporting Windows 10. That means reduced performance, limited features, or complete incompatibility with modern tools.

4. Operational Disruption

Unsupported operating systems increase IT management overhead, risk downtime, and may lead to performance instability — all of which affect productivity.

Even if Windows 10 works fine today, that won't be true forever. The risks will increase month by month after EOL.

Compatibility Issues to Expect After Windows 10 Support Ends

• New Software Won’t Install or Work Properly – App developers will stop testing for Windows 10, leading to bugs or refusal to run.

• Hardware Driver Gaps – New printers, scanners, and peripherals may lack Windows 10-compatible drivers.

• Security Software Conflicts – Antivirus tools may drop support, leaving systems exposed.

• Microsoft 365 Limitations – Feature updates stop in 2026, potentially breaking compatibility with newer documents or tools.

• Online Services May Fail – Web-based tools and cloud services could require OS-level features not available in Windows 10.

• Gaming and Creative Software Incompatibility – Programs like Final Fantasy XIV and high-performance apps will phase out Windows 10 support.

What Are Your Options?

As an IT manager, you have several options to consider based on your hardware, software compatibility, and budget:

1. Upgrade to Windows 11

Microsoft’s official recommendation is to move to Windows 11, which offers:

• Continued security updates and feature support

• Enhanced user experience and productivity tools

• Improved compatibility with modern hardware and software

Most PCs purchased in the last two years will support Windows 11 — but older models may not meet the system requirements.

2. Replace Older Devices

Some older machines can’t run Windows 11 due to TPM 2.0 and CPU requirements. In these cases, you’ll need to plan for a hardware refresh.

• Modern devices are faster, more energy efficient, and more secure

• Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) or leasing options can reduce upfront cost

When Should You Act?

Ideally, your Windows 10 upgrade or device replacement plan should be finalised before mid-2025, to avoid last-minute procurement issues or rushed deployments.

Exploring Alternatives to Upgrading from Windows 10

Not everyone is ready, or willing to upgrade to Windows 11. Whether it's due to hardware limitations, budget constraints, or concerns about compatibility, many users are exploring alternative paths.

Here are some viable options if you're not ready to move on from Windows 10:

1. Community Repair Groups and Local IT Collectives: Get help extending your PC's life or installing new systems locally.

2. Use Windows 10 in a Sandboxed or Isolated Environment: Run Windows 10 in a sandboxed environment to isolate risk.

3. Shift to Cloud-Based Workflows: Rely on cloud apps like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace to reduce OS needs.

4. Upgrade Hardware Strategically: A new CPU or more RAM may make your PC Windows 11-ready.

5. Buy Time with ESUs: Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for businesses needing more time.

6. Boost Security: Use strong antivirus, firewalls, and backups to stay protected.

Switching to a Different Operating System: A Smart Alternative to Windows 11

If your PC doesn’t meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11—or you simply want to avoid the cost and hassle of upgrading—switching to a different operating system can be a practical, secure, and budget-friendly solution.

Linux-based Operating Systems
Options like Ubuntu, Linux Mint, or Zorin OS offer a Windows-like experience that’s free, regularly updated, and compatible with many older devices. They're ideal for web browsing, office tasks, email, and even some creative work. Plus, they’re highly secure and supported by a vast global community.

ChromeOS Flex
A lightweight OS from Google designed for older hardware, ChromeOS Flex transforms aging PCs into speedy, secure, web-focused machines. Perfect for users who rely mostly on cloud apps and don’t need heavy desktop software.

Why consider switching?

• Stay protected with regular security updates

• Extend the life of your existing device

• Avoid expensive hardware upgrades

• Access thousands of free apps and tools

• Enjoy faster performance on older machines

While there may be a slight learning curve, modern alternatives are surprisingly intuitive—making them a solid choice for both personal users and businesses not ready to commit to Windows 11.

When will Windows 11 Be End of Life (EOL)?

While Windows 11 is the successor to Windows 10, it doesn't offer indefinite support either. Each version of Windows 11 has its own lifecycle—and knowing these dates is crucial when planning for long-term security and performance.

Here’s a breakdown of Windows 11 support timelines:

• Windows 11 Home & Pro (Version 22H2): Ended October 8, 2024

• Windows 11 Home & Pro (Version 21H2): Ended October 10, 2023

• Windows 11 Enterprise & Education (Version 21H2): Ended October 8, 2024

• Windows 11 Enterprise & Education (Version 22H2): Ends October 13, 2026

• Windows 11 IoT Enterprise:

  • Mainstream support ended: October 8, 2024

  • Extended support ends: October 14, 2031

What happens after support ends?
Just like with Windows 10, unsupported Windows 11 versions will no longer receive security patches or bug fixes, leaving your system exposed to vulnerabilities. Microsoft recommends updating to the latest supported version to stay protected.

Why it matters:
Many users assume upgrading to Windows 11 is a one-and-done solution—but staying secure means keeping track of these version deadlines and planning future updates accordingly. If you're looking for a longer-term, lower-maintenance solution, exploring alternative operating systems might be the smarter move.

Next Steps

To ensure you are fully prepared for the Windows 10 end of life, your account manager will be in touch shortly to discuss your specific options and how we can assist further. Should you wish to address this matter sooner, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.

Navigating the end of life for Windows 10 is a significant milestone, and with the right preparation and support, you can transition smoothly and securely into the next generation of computing technology.