Updating Windows 10

Windows 10 Is Retiring: What It Means and What You Should Do

Microsoft has officially announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. If your organization is still using Windows 10, it’s important to plan ahead. This deadline might seem far off, but preparing now can save your business from security risks, downtime, and unexpected costs later.

What Does “End of Life” Mean?

When an operating system (like Windows 10) reaches its end of life (EOL), Microsoft stops providing updates, including important security patches, bug fixes, and technical support. While your devices may still work, they’ll become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats and won’t support newer apps or hardware.

To prepare for the EOL of Windows 10, organizations typically need to choose one of three paths:

Option 1: Migrate to Windows 11

Migrating to Windows 11 is the most future-proof option. It ensures your organization stays current, secure, and supported.

Key Benefits of Upgrading:

1. Advanced Security Features
   Windows 11 includes TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and other modern protections that guard against cyber threats.
2. Faster and More Efficient
   With a cleaner interface and improved performance, Windows 11 helps users work smarter and faster.
3. Ready for the Cloud
   Windows 11 is built with cloud-based and modern apps in mind, making it ideal for today’s hybrid work environments.

Hardware Considerations:

Not all Windows 10 PCs are compatible with Windows 11. Some older hardware may not meet the system requirements. At Western I.T., we can help you:

• Check which devices are compatible
• Plan your upgrade
• Use tools like Microsoft Intune to manage the migration smoothly

Option 2: Extend Windows 10 Life with ESU (Extended Security Updates)

If upgrading all devices to Windows 11 by the EOL date isn’t possible, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) to buy your organization more time.

What You Need to Know:

• Available for all Windows 10 editions
• Applies only to devices running Windows 10 version 22H2 or later
• A Microsoft support plan must be in place
• Must be purchased in advance
• Only available for up to 3 years after EOL (until 2028)

What’s Included:

• Critical security updates
• Access to certain Microsoft subscription services
• Continued device support (but no feature updates or improvements)

Important: Costs for ESU will likely increase each year, and this path should be considered a short-term solution.

Option 3: Do Nothing (Not Recommended)

Technically, you can keep using Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. But here’s what you’re risking:

• No security updates = increased cyber risk
• No new features or software support
• Higher support costs
• Compliance issues for regulated industries

Eventually, you may be forced to upgrade due to application or hardware compatibility—even if it’s at a much higher cost.

What Should Your Organization Do?

Choosing the right path depends on your business needs, budget, and hardware. Here’s how Western I.T. can help:

• Assess your current devices and software
• Determine if you qualify for ESUs
• Evaluate upgrade options
• Build a timeline that fits your business goals

Whether you want to upgrade, extend support, or phase out older hardware, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Act Now – The Clock Is Ticking Don’t wait until the last minute. Reach out to Western I.T. today to build a plan and make sure your business stays protected and productive beyond 2025.