Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support—posing significant security and performance risks for users who don’t take action.
If you’re still running Windows 10 on your devices, it’s time to start planning your transition. This guide will walk you through what end of support means, your upgrade options, and how to make the move to Windows 11 with minimal disruption.
What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?
Your computer won’t suddenly stop working on October 14, 2025—but continuing to use Windows 10 after that date comes with serious risks. Once support ends, Microsoft will no longer provide critical updates or assistance, meaning your system will be more exposed to potential threats and software compatibility issues.
Here’s what you’ll lose:
- Security updates – No more patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities, leaving your device open to viruses, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
- Software and feature updates – Your PC won’t receive new features, improvements, or performance enhancements.
- Technical support from Microsoft – If something goes wrong, Microsoft will no longer provide help, guidance, or troubleshooting support for Windows 10 issues.
Running an unsupported OS dramatically increases your risk profile. For home users, that means your personal files, passwords, and financial information could be at greater risk. For businesses, the consequences can include compliance violations, customer data breaches, system downtime, and costly recovery efforts.
If you rely on your device for work, education, or personal use, it’s essential to transition to a supported operating system like Windows 11 before the deadline.
What Are Your Options?
Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (Free)
If your PC meets the minimum system requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free.
- Check your upgrade eligibility:
- Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Select Check for updates
- If eligible, you’ll receive a prompt to download and install Windows 11.
- Don’t forget to back up your files before upgrading.
Pro Tip: Use the PC Health Check app to confirm your device is ready for Windows 11.
Option 2: Purchase a New PC with Windows 11
If your current PC isn’t compatible with Windows 11—or if you’re ready for a hardware upgrade—consider buying a new Windows 11 PC. Newer devices offer better performance, longer battery life, and enhanced security features.
Option 3: Enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
Not ready to upgrade just yet? Microsoft is offering a one-year ESU program starting at $61 USD for the first year. This option buys you time by extending security updates for another year beyond the end-of-support date.
- More details on enrollment and pricing will be announced closer to October 2025.
- Ideal for both consumers and commercial users needing more time to plan.
What About Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365?
Your Microsoft 365 apps will also be affected:
- Support for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 ends October 14, 2025.
- Office 2016 and Office 2019: Support ends across all OS versions on that same date.
- Office 2021/2024 and LTSC: Will continue to run but won’t be supported on Windows 10.
Recommendation: Upgrade to Windows 11 and consider moving to Microsoft 365 for continued app support and better performance.
How to Prepare for the Move
- Backup Your Files: Use OneDrive or external drives to back up documents, photos, and app data. Learn how to back up with OneDrive
- Set Up a Microsoft Account: A Microsoft account helps you transfer files, favorites, and settings to your new device or OS version.
- Check for Windows 11 Compatibility: Use the PC Health Check app to determine eligibility.
- Install the Upgrade: If Windows 11 is available for your PC, follow the prompts in Windows Update to download and install it. You can even schedule the installation at a time that’s convenient for you.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Whether you’re a home user with a single laptop or an IT administrator overseeing dozens—or even hundreds—of devices, waiting until the last minute to act on the Windows 10 end-of-support notice could leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks, compliance issues, and costly downtime.
After October 14, 2025, your PC won’t receive critical security updates, making it a prime target for malware, ransomware, and data breaches. Businesses, in particular, should consider the operational and legal risks of running unsupported software—especially in regulated industries like healthcare, finance, and education.
Now is the time to:
- Audit your hardware: Identify which PCs are compatible with Windows 11 and which ones need to be replaced.
- Back up your data: Ensure that all important files, user settings, and system configurations are safely stored in the cloud or on external drives.
- Plan your upgrade path: Decide whether to upgrade in-place, buy new hardware, or enroll in the ESU program if needed.
- Test applications: Verify that essential software and peripherals are compatible with Windows 11.
By upgrading to Windows 11 ahead of the deadline, you’re not just keeping your systems secure—you’re unlocking a sleeker interface, smarter productivity tools, and enhanced multitasking features built for modern work and life. Whether it’s improved Snap layouts for multitasking, faster performance, or seamless Microsoft 365 integration, Windows 11 offers a streamlined and future-ready experience.
Don’t let the deadline catch you off guard. The earlier you begin, the smoother the transition will be.
Need help getting started?
Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the entire process—from assessing device readiness and backing up data to selecting the right Windows 11 PC for your needs. Whether you’re a solo user or an organization with complex IT needs, we’ll help you build a secure, efficient plan tailored to your situation.
Stay current. Stay protected. Contact us today to start your transition to Windows 11.
