End of Support for Windows 10

Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. If your business still has Windows 10 computers, they are no longer getting regular security patches, and every month that passes adds known, unpatched vulnerabilities that attackers can use.

What End of Support Means

Windows 10 computers still turn on and still run, but Microsoft no longer releases free security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for them. The only way to keep receiving security patches is Microsoft's paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. It is a stopgap that costs more every year it is used, not a long-term plan.

Why This Matters to Your Business

1. Security Risks: Every vulnerability found in Windows 10 since October 2025 stays open on computers that are not enrolled in ESU. Attackers actively look for these outdated systems, putting your sensitive business data at risk.
2. Compliance Issues: Regulations and cyber insurance policies generally require supported, patched operating systems. Running unsupported software can mean failed audits, denied insurance claims, fines, and legal consequences.
3. Software and Hardware Compatibility: Vendors are dropping Windows 10 from their supported platforms, so new versions of the applications and devices you depend on will stop working with it over time.
4. Technical Support: Microsoft will not help with problems on Windows 10, which leads to longer downtime and higher repair costs when something goes wrong.

Steps to Take Now

1. Find Every Windows 10 Device: Identify all computers in your organization still running Windows 10, including ones in storage, at home offices, and running dedicated equipment.
2. Check Windows 11 Compatibility: Many computers can upgrade to Windows 11 at no cost. Older machines that don't meet Windows 11's hardware requirements need to be replaced.
3. Protect What Can't Move Yet: For any computer that has to stay on Windows 10 for now, enroll it in Extended Security Updates, and limit what it can reach on your network until it's replaced.
4. Plan the Rest: Set a budget and timeline for the remaining upgrades and replacements, including data migration, application testing, and staff training.

Conclusion

Windows 10 is no longer a safe place to run your business. Moving to a supported operating system protects your data, keeps you compliant, and avoids the rising cost of keeping old systems on life support.

Not sure how many Windows 10 computers you still have, or which ones can be upgraded? Contact us or schedule a free discovery call, and we'll help you plan the move.