September 01, 2025
Important Notice: Support for Windows 10 by Microsoft ends on October 14, 2025. While your Windows 10 PC will still operate after this date, the critical security updates, technical support, and maintenance services from Microsoft will cease, leaving your device vulnerable and unsupported.
Why Business Owners Must Act Now
- Heightened Security Threats: Without continuous updates, your system becomes increasingly susceptible to cyberattacks, malware, and viruses. Protecting your business data means upgrading to a newer Windows version is essential.
- Reduced Software Compatibility: New software updates are designed for the latest operating systems. Post-Windows 10 support, many applications may run poorly or fail completely.
- Regulatory Compliance Risks: Operating on an outdated OS can jeopardize compliance with industry regulations, potentially resulting in costly fines or legal challenges.
Your Upgrade Path Options
Microsoft advises upgrading to Windows 11 before Windows 10's support ends. However, not all current Windows 10 devices meet the hardware specs for Windows 11, and attempting to upgrade incompatible PCs will trigger errors.
If your device doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements, consider these alternatives:
- Purchase a new PC that supports Windows 11
- Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU) for temporary protection
- Switch to a Linux operating system as an alternative
- Ignoring this deadline is strongly discouraged due to serious risks
Before any change, always back up your important data to prevent any loss during the upgrade or migration process.
Extended Security Updates Explained
If immediate upgrading isn't feasible, Microsoft's Extended Security Updates program offers another year of security patches beyond October 2025. Keep in mind, this is a temporary fix, not a long-term solution.
Registering for ESU is straightforward—you can pay a $30 fee or use 1,000 Microsoft Reward points. Alternatively, a no-cost option requires enabling Windows Backup syncing with OneDrive, which offers 5 GB free cloud storage, though larger storage needs may require a purchase.
Register before the October 14 deadline to maintain ESU benefits.
How to Navigate Your Upgrade Journey
The best approach is to collaborate with your IT team or a trusted technology consultant. They will assess your setup and guide you to a smooth transition with minimal business disruption.
If you need expert advice to navigate this important transition, contact our team for a FREE Discovery Call. We'll help you plan a seamless upgrade to Windows 11 and answer any questions. Schedule your call today by dialing (802) 331-1900 or click here.
