Windows 10 End of Support on October 14, 2025

Category: Operating Systems | Security Updates | Device Management

Overview

Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. This is a critical date for all Windows 10 users (both Business and Home), as it signifies the cessation of free security updates, non-security updates, and technical support directly from Microsoft.

Continuing to run Windows 10 after this date poses significant security risks to your devices and data.

What This Means For You

After October 14, 2025, any device still running Windows 10 will no longer receive:

Free Security Updates: New vulnerabilities discovered after this date will not be patched, leaving your devices exposed to cyber threats like malware and ransomware.
Non-Security Updates: You will miss out on bug fixes, performance improvements, and other general updates.
Technical Support: Microsoft will no longer provide official assistance for Windows 10 issues.

Running an unsupported operating system increases your risk of security breaches and can also impact compliance with industry regulations.

Your Options to Stay Protected

Microsoft recommends two primary paths to ensure your devices remain secure and supported:

Upgrade to Windows 11 (Recommended for Eligible Devices):
- Free Upgrade: For eligible Windows 10 users, the upgrade to Windows 11 is free.
- Check Eligibility: Not all devices can upgrade to Windows 11. Devices must meet specific hardware requirements (e.g., compatible processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, UEFI firmware, Secure Boot capable, and TPM 2.0).
- How to Check: You can typically check your PC's eligibility through Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, or by downloading Microsoft's PC Health Check app.
Enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program:
- This program is designed for individuals and organizations who need more time to transition to Windows 11.
- Paid Option: The ESU program provides critical and important security updates for an additional year, with costs increasing each year (up to three years for commercial customers).
- Individual Options (New!): For the first time, individuals also have ESU options, including a one-time purchase or potentially free options through Microsoft Rewards or syncing PC settings to the cloud via Windows Backup.
- Note: ESU only provides security updates; it does not offer new features, non-security fixes, or technical support.

Next Steps & Important Considerations

Assess Your Devices: It's crucial to identify which of your Windows 10 devices are eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11 and which are not.
Plan Your Transition: For incompatible devices, you may need to consider purchasing new hardware that supports Windows 11 or enrolling those devices in the ESU program.
Act Now: The deadline is approaching rapidly. Proactive planning helps ensure a smooth transition and continuous protection.
Consider a new PC: If your current PC is not eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11, consider purchasing a new PC with Windows 11.

If you have any questions, we’re here to support you—just reach out to your CSM or product-support@electric.ai!