Windows 10 End of Life: Key Dates and How to Prepare

Is your business running Windows 10? The clock is ticking. Microsoft's most popular operating system is reaching its end of life soon, which means big changes for your IT security. Let's break down what this means, when it happens, and how to keep your business protected.

The Big Date: October 14, 2025

Mark your calendars! October 14, 2025 is when Windows 10 officially reaches its end of support date. This isn't just another update – it's a complete end to free security patches and technical support for the operating system that currently powers most business computers around the world.

What Happens When Support Ends?

When Windows 10 reaches end of life, your computers won't suddenly stop working. However, several critical things will change:

• No more security updates to protect against new threats
• No technical support from Microsoft
• No new features or improvements
• Increased vulnerability to cyber attacks
• Potential compliance issues for regulated industries

Think of it like driving a car without insurance – it still works, but you're taking on serious risks.

Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Not ready to move on from Windows 10? Microsoft is offering an Extended Security Updates program that provides critical security patches after the end-of-support date. Here's what you need to know:

For Businesses

• Cost starts at $61 per device for Year One
• Price doubles each consecutive year (Year Two: $122, Year Three: $244)
• Available for up to three years (until October 2028)
• Organizations using cloud management tools like Intune or Windows Autopatch qualify for a discounted rate of $45 per device for Year One

For Home Users

• $30 for one year of security updates
• Only covers critical security patches
• No technical support or feature updates included

It's worth noting that ESU is designed as a temporary bridge, not a long-term solution.

Your Options: What Should You Do?

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11

The most straightforward solution is upgrading eligible devices to Windows 11. This gives you:

• Continued security updates
• New features and improvements
• Better protection against modern threats
• Built-in advanced security features

To run Windows 11, your devices need to meet specific hardware requirements, including TPM 2.0, compatible processor, and sufficient RAM.

Option 2: Replace Older Hardware

If your devices don't meet Windows 11 requirements, it might be time for new equipment. Yes, there's an upfront cost, but consider the benefits:

• Enhanced security with modern hardware
• Better performance and productivity
• Lower long-term maintenance costs
• Extended lifespan for your IT infrastructure

Option 3: Cloud Solutions

Another powerful option is moving to cloud-based solutions:

• Windows 365 Cloud PCs provide Windows 11 access on any device
• Azure Virtual Desktop delivers virtual Windows environments
• Both include ESU protection at no additional cost

Key Preparing Steps for Businesses

1. Inventory Assessment: Identify all Windows 10 devices in your organization and check which ones can upgrade to Windows 11. 
2. Budget Planning: Calculate costs for upgrades, replacements, or ESU licensing based on your inventory. 
3. Timeline Development: Create a migration schedule that prioritizes critical systems and minimizes disruption. 
4. Testing: Set up a pilot program to test Windows 11 compatibility with your business applications. 
5. User Training: Prepare your team for the transition with proper training on Windows 11. 
6. Backup Strategy: Implement robust backup solutions before making any changes. 

Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10

Wondering about your Microsoft 365 apps after Windows 10 support ends? There's good news – Microsoft has confirmed they'll provide security updates for Microsoft 365 applications on Windows 10 for three additional years (until 2028). However, this doesn't protect the operating system itself.

The Evergreening Advantage

Smart businesses using an evergreening strategy are already ahead of the game. What's evergreening? It's the practice of continuously refreshing your technology on a regular schedule – before it reaches end of life.

Organizations with evergreening plans:

• Avoid the panic of end-of-life transitions
• Spread hardware costs across multiple years
• Keep their technology current and secure
• Maintain productivity with modern tools
• Reduce unexpected IT expenses

If you've been evergreening your devices on a 3-5 year cycle, you're likely already transitioning to Windows 11-compatible hardware. For everyone else, now's the perfect time to start implementing this approach for smoother technology management.

Time to Act

The October 2025 deadline may seem far off, but preparing for such a significant change takes time. Starting your transition now helps spread out costs and reduces last-minute pressures. Whether you choose to upgrade, replace, or extend, the key is having a clear plan that balances security needs with budget realities.

Need help navigating this transition? Contact xFacilitator for a free Windows 10 EOL assessment. Our team will help you develop a customized strategy that keeps your business protected while maximizing your IT investment.

Don't let Windows 10 End of Life catch you unprepared. Start planning your transition today.