Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach end of life on October 14, 2025. The announcement applies to all versions of the operating system.
- Microsoft Windows 10 Home
- Microsoft Windows 10 Pro
- Microsoft Windows 10 Enterprise
- Microsoft Windows 10 Pro Education
- Microsoft Windows 10 Pro for Workstations
What impact will the End of Life for Windows 10 have on businesses?
Businesses who choose to continue using Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support directly from Microsoft. Remaining on Windows 10 exposes your organisation to the eventual vulnerabilities and potential cyber threats caused when running an outdated operating system. It is critical for businesses to plan ahead to ensure there are contingencies in place before the October 14, 2025 deadline.
What options do businesses have if they’re still running Windows 10?
Businesses who still use Windows 10 have two options before the 14 October, 2025 Deadline.
Upgrade to Windows 11
Migrating your organisation to Windows 11 is the best way to ensure your systems remain secure as Microsoft continues to support the operating system. Microsoft have increased the minimum requirement for Windows 11 which means older devices may not be able to upgrade, therefore, it is encouraged to upgrade your hardware to devices that support at least the basic requirements for Windows 11 if the requirements are not met.
For compatible devices upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free.
Pay for Microsoft Security Patches
Microsoft is offering paid security patches for Windows 10 once the operating system reaches end of life. This is called Extended Security Updates (ESU), this option is best only for organisations who have a need to remain on Windows 10. This is usually due to the software compatibility, in edge cases where Windows 11 cannot run an application needed by the business to operate.
This program is limited to Windows 10 users running the latest version – 22H2. The ESU program only limited to security patches and does not offer general support.
How much does Extended Security Updates cost?
Windows 10 ESU can cost $61 USD per device for Year One, in Year Two the price doubles and doubles again in Year 3 – in which the price remains. You must continue to pay to keep getting updates.
Does your business need help with Windows 10 End of Life?
Cloud Central is helping businesses like yours find the best solution to the Windows 10 End of Life deadline. Our team of experts can help guide you with the best and most appropriate solution to ensure your organisation is secure.
Talk to one of our experts to contact Cloud Central on 01332 333220 or email enquiries@cloudcentral.co.uk.
