The End of Support for Windows 10: What It Means for Your Business

As technology evolves, so do the tools we use to run our businesses. One of the most significant milestones in the tech world is the end of support for older operating systems. In this case, Windows 10 is reaching the end of its support lifecycle. As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially stop providing security updates, bug fixes, and technical support for Windows 10. For businesses still using this operating system, this change could have a significant impact on both security and productivity.

Fact: Windows 10 will reach the end of its lifecycle on October 14, 2025, after 10 years of updates and support.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what the end of support for Windows 10 means, why businesses should prepare for the transition, and how to ensure a smooth migration to a supported version.

What Does the End of Support Mean for Windows 10?

Microsoft’s end of support for Windows 10 means that, after October 14, 2025, the operating system will no longer receive:

• Security Updates: Without regular security patches, your system will be vulnerable to malware, viruses, and other security threats.

• Technical Support: Businesses will no longer have access to Microsoft’s customer support for troubleshooting or resolving system issues.

• Bug Fixes and Performance Updates: As new issues arise, Windows 10 will no longer receive bug fixes or updates aimed at improving system stability and performance.

As soon as Windows 10 is no longer supported, the developers of third-party software will also stop releasing updates for Windows 10 at some point. Any vulnerabilities or software bugs that are discovered will not be addressed, leaving systems more prone to attacks and malfunctions.

Fact: According to statcounter, Windows 10 still has a large market share of over 50 percent devices still using windows 10 in Canada.

Why Should You Care About the End of Support?

The end of support for Windows 10 can have serious implications for businesses, especially for those in industries that rely heavily on technology for day-to-day operations. Here’s why it’s crucial to take action now:

• Security Risks: Once support ends, Windows 10 will not receive critical security updates, leaving your systems vulnerable to hackers and cyberattacks. Vulnerabilities that have not yet been discovered will become significant risks over time.

• Compliance Issues: Many businesses, particularly in regulated industries like healthcare and finance, must comply with strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS). Using unsupported software could lead to non-compliance and potential legal consequences.

• Lack of Software Compatibility: As developers release new software and applications, they will increasingly stop supporting Windows 10. This could limit access to critical tools and lead to compatibility issues.

• Performance Degradation: Over time, Windows 10 may begin to experience performance issues as it no longer receives performance optimizations and bug fixes.

• Increased IT Costs: Using unsupported software can lead to higher maintenance costs. Organizations may need to rely on third-party solutions or custom patches, which could prove costly and less reliable than Microsoft’s official updates.

What Are Your Options?

With Windows 10 support coming to an end, businesses will need to upgrade to a supported version of Windows to ensure continued functionality and security. Here are the primary options:

1. Upgrade to Windows 11: Windows 11 is Microsoft’s latest operating system, offering improved security, better performance, and new features designed for productivity. For businesses running Windows 10, this is the most logical choice. Windows 11 includes new features such as a redesigned Start menu, enhanced virtual desktop support, and a more modern user interface. Moreover, it offers TPM 2.0, Copilot, passkeys and better multitasking.

Considerations:

• Hardware Requirements: Windows 11 has higher system requirements than Windows 10, so not all older devices will be able to upgrade. Before migrating, assess whether your hardware is compatible with Windows 11.

• Training: Your team may need training on how to use the new features and interface of Windows 11. It’s essential to plan for a smooth transition.

2. Stay on Windows 10 with Extended Security Updates (ESU)

If upgrading to Windows 11 is not immediately feasible, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10. This option is typically used by businesses that need more time to upgrade their systems or have compatibility concerns. ESU provides critical security updates for up to three years after the end of support.

However, it’s important to note that ESU does not include feature updates, and it only addresses security vulnerabilities, meaning your systems will still miss out on performance improvements and new features.

The price of the ESU program will double every consecutive year, for a maximum of three years. If you decide to jump into the program in Year Two, you'll have to pay for Year One too, as ESUs are cumulative.

3. Switch to a Different Operating System

In some cases, businesses may want to explore alternatives to Windows, such as Linux or macOS. While this may be a more significant transition, it can offer benefits such as enhanced security, lower costs, and better control over the operating environment. However, the switch comes with its own challenges, such as training employees and ensuring compatibility with business-critical software.

How to Prepare for the End of Support

It’s never too early to start preparing for the end of support for Windows 10. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your business for the transition:

1. Assess Your Current System: Identify which devices in your organization are still running Windows 10. Conduct an inventory of your hardware and software to assess compatibility with Windows 11 or other potential upgrades.

2. Create a Migration Plan: Plan your migration to Windows 11, considering your organization’s needs, available resources, and any training requirements. Make sure to allocate sufficient time for testing before rolling out the new operating system.

3. Consider Your Budget: Factor in the cost of upgrading hardware, purchasing new licenses, and any training or support services you may need. If you’re using ESU, keep in mind the potential costs of continuing with Windows 10 in the interim.

4. Back Up Your Data: Before making any changes, ensure that all important data is backed up. This is crucial in case of any issues during the transition.

5. Consult an IT Expert: If you’re unsure about how to handle the migration or whether your devices are ready for Windows 11, reach out to an IT provider like AltaCom for expert guidance.

   
   

Conclusion: Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

The end of support for Windows 10 is fast approaching, and businesses need to act now to ensure they remain secure and compliant. Upgrading to Windows 11 is the best option for most organizations, but Extended Security Updates (ESU) can provide a temporary solution for those who need more time. Whichever path you choose, it’s important to start planning your transition today.

At AltaCom, we specialize in helping businesses transition smoothly to newer operating systems, ensuring that your systems remain secure and efficient. Contact us today to learn how we can help you plan for the end of support for Windows 10.