Windows 10 End of Life and What It Means For Your Business

What does End of Life mean?

A product reaching End of Life essentially means that the supplier will no longer provide free feature updates and security patches. They do this to encourage people to upgrade to the most recent – and usually much better – version of the product. And, from a logistical point of view, it means they can focus their energy on maintaining their new systems and not continually upgrading old ones.

So, in the case of Windows 10, as of 14th October 2025, Microsoft no longer provide free updates for your Windows 10 PC. This includes software updates, but also security updates which are crucial for protecting your data and keeping your business secure.

How does this impact your business?

Using a product, in this case your PC, after its End of Life may not seem like a big deal, but it can have a big impact. There are 3 main ways an outdated system affects your business.

Security: Without security patches, your systems are vulnerable to cyber threats.

Compliance: Running unsupported software often breaks industry regulations. This is especially important for Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus which require up to date and secure software. Additionally, business insurance is an issue with unsupported software – you’ll likely struggle to get insurance or will be charged a premium.

Performance: Outdated systems will slow down your PCs and your operations. That dip in productivity will have a bigger impact on your bottom line.

We’re now past the deadline: Why some businesses still haven’t upgraded

Although Windows 10 support officially ended in October 2025, some businesses are still running older devices today. Some organisations delayed replacement projects due to budget constraints whilst others discovered that older hardware wasn’t compatible with Windows 11 and chose to enrol in Microsoft’s Extended Security Update programme instead.

The challenge is that these are temporary solutions. Extended Security Update licences become more expensive over time and are only designed to give organisations additional breathing room while they complete their upgrade plans.

For those still relying on Windows 10 devices, the question is no longer whether an upgrade is required but rather how long it makes sense to continue delaying it.

How do I upgrade?

So, you know you need to upgrade; what are your options? The first step is to do an audit of what you currently have. You need to understand what machines you have running Windows 10, then you’ll know the scale of your upgrade project.

Once you know this, you have two options…

Option #1 Upgrade to Windows 11

If your PCs have plenty of life left and are compatible, you can upgrade to Windows 11 free of charge. If you’re unsure whether your PC meets the requirements, then please get in touch and we can find out for you.

Alternatively, if your machines are old or aren’t compatible with the free upgrade, you will need to buy new Windows 11 PCs in order to upgrade.

Option #2 Enrol in the Extended Support Programme

Buying this licence will ensure that you have software and security updates for a maximum of a further three years. The licence isn’t cheap and gets more expensive year on year, but is a good option if your PCs aren’t compatible with the upgrade and you’re not ready to buy new ones yet. It’s worth noting with the extended support licences, that this is only a temporary measure and you will have to upgrade to Windows 11 eventually.

FAQs

Can I still use Windows 10 after support has ended?

Yes, but Microsoft no longer provides standard security updates. This increases security and compliance risks over time.

What happens if we stay on Windows 10?

Your devices become increasingly vulnerable to newly discovered security vulnerabilities and may create compliance, insurance and Cyber Essentials issues.

Can my existing PC be upgraded to Windows 11?

Many devices can be upgraded, but some older machines do not meet Microsoft’s Windows 11 hardware requirements.

What is Microsoft’s Extended Security Update programme?

The ESU programme provides paid security updates for Windows 10 after end of support. It is designed as a temporary measure while organisations complete their migration plans.

Is it better to upgrade Windows 10 or replace the device?

This depends on the age and capability of the device. Older machines often benefit from replacement because they may not meet Windows 11 requirements or could already be affecting productivity.

Will Extended Security Updates continue forever?

No. The programme has a limited lifespan and increasing cost structure. Businesses should view it as a temporary bridge rather than a permanent solution.

How we can help

We can help to:

• Audit your current machines to see whether they’re eligible for upgrade
• Upgrade eligible machines to Windows 11
• Help you choose and purchase new PCs if required
• Provide the Extended Support Licence for the machines you’re not upgrading.

Regardless of which option you choose, our team will provide a smooth transition and assist you every step of the way. If you’d like us to check your eligibility for upgrade, or you need some more information, please get in touch below.

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