Windows 10 Support is Ending in October 2025

What You Need to Know

Big News: Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Your computer will still work after this date, but important services from Microsoft will no longer be available. These services include:

– Security updates

– General software updates

– Technical support

Why Does This Matter for Your Business?

  1. Security Risks: Without updates, your computer will be more exposed to viruses, malware, and hackers. This puts your business data at risk, so upgrading to a newer version of Windows is crucial.
  2. Software Compatibility: Some of your programs may stop working properly or might not work at all as they are updated to run on newer operating systems.
  3. Compliance Issues: If your business handles sensitive data or follows strict regulations, using outdated software could lead to legal problems or fines.

What Are Your Options?

Microsoft recommends upgrading to the latest version before the deadline. However, not all devices running Windows 10 are compatible with Windows 11. If your computer isn’t compatible, you have a few options:

  • Buy a new PC that meets Windows 11 requirements.
  • Pay for Windows 10 security updates** (available for up to three years but no longer free).
  • Switch to Linux, a different operating system.
  • Use a technical workaround to upgrade an incompatible PC (not recommended for everyone).
  • Do nothing and put your business at risk (definitely not recommended!).

Whatever option you choose, always back up your data before making changes to avoid losing important files.

Plan Ahead

It’s important to plan your next steps now. There is talk that Microsoft could extend the deadline, but it’s not something to rely on. Don’t wait until it’s too late and your business is vulnerable due to lack of security protection.

Work with your IT team to figure out the best option for your business. If your computers are newer, paying for security updates might be a short-term solution. If they’re older, upgrading to new PCs may be a smarter long-term investment. Your IT provider can help make the transition smoother and minimize any downtime for your business.

Need help deciding? Schedule a FREE 10-Minute Discovery Call with our team. We’ll help you map out your next steps for transitioning to Windows 11. Call us at (505) 792-2375 or click here to schedule!