We are now just a little over a month away from a significant event, the end of support for Windows 10. The official date is October 14, 2025, and for many who have relied on this operating system for years, it’s a critical deadline to address.
This isn’t about rushing anyone into a decision. Instead, this information is intended to provide a clear, professional overview of the situation so you can make informed choices for your own systems and those you manage.
The Impact of End of Support
While a Windows 10 machine will continue to function after the deadline, it will no longer receive essential support from Microsoft. This has three primary consequences that warrant your attention:
- Security Vulnerability: This is the most pressing concern. Without regular security updates, your devices will not be protected against new malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. This lack of a robust defense significantly elevates the risk to your data and network integrity.
- Stagnant Functionality: The operating system will cease to receive feature updates or quality improvements. You will be operating on a static version of Windows 10, while the rest of the ecosystem moves forward.
- No Technical Assistance: Microsoft will no longer offer technical support for Windows 10. Any issues or bugs you encounter after this date will have to be addressed without official assistance.
To help users prepare, Microsoft has begun deploying full-screen pop-up banners as part of the August 2025 Patch Tuesday update (KB5063709), serving as a direct and unavoidable reminder of the upcoming deadline.
Navigating the Transition
Microsoft has provided a clear set of options to help you transition smoothly and securely.
The Recommended Path of Upgrading to Windows 11
For eligible PCs, the most straightforward and beneficial solution is to upgrade to Windows 11. The operating system offers a modern, secure, and highly efficient computing experience.
- Advanced Security: Windows 11 was engineered with a “security by default” mindset, integrating features such as TPM 2.0 and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) to provide a more resilient defense against modern threats.
- Enhanced Productivity: Features like Snap Layouts and Multiple Desktops are designed to optimize multitasking and workflow efficiency. Additionally, the inclusion of Copilot offers a powerful AI tool integrated directly into the OS.
- Checking Eligibility: The upgrade is free for PCs that meet the minimum system requirements. You can verify a device’s eligibility by navigating to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and selecting “Check for updates.”
The Hardware Upgrade for A New Windows 11 PC
If your current hardware does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, this is an excellent opportunity to upgrade your device. New PCs designed for Windows 11 are optimized for performance and security. For professionals, this is particularly relevant with the introduction of Copilot+ PCs, which offer cutting-edge performance and advanced AI capabilities.
The Temporary Solution of The Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
For those who require more time before committing to a full upgrade, the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is available.
- What it offers: This paid program provides critical security updates for your Windows 10 device for up to one year past the end-of-support date.
- Key limitation: It’s important to note that this program does not provide new features or technical support. It is a temporary measure designed to mitigate risk during a transition period.
- Pricing: A one-year ESU license for consumers is available for a purchase price of $30.
Other End-of-Life Products
The October 14, 2025, deadline extends beyond just the Windows 10 operating system, impacting several other key Microsoft software products. It is important to audit your environment for the following:
- Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019: These perpetual license versions, along with standalone products like Microsoft Project and Microsoft Visio, will also reach their end of life and cease receiving security updates.
- Exchange Server 2016 and 2019: These server products will no longer be supported, and administrators are advised to plan their migration to a newer version or to Microsoft 365.
- OneNote for Windows 10: The dedicated OneNote app will be discontinued, requiring users to transition to the modern version of OneNote.
How Encryption Consulting Can Help
The upcoming Windows 10 end-of-life presents not only an upgrade challenge but also a critical opportunity to strengthen your organization’s overall security environment. Beyond operating system updates, ensuring that your sensitive data remains protected across cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments is essential.
Encryption Consulting’s Encryption Advisory Service helps organizations:
- Build a tailored encryption strategy aligned with business and compliance goals.
- Standardize encryption and key management practices to eliminate security gaps.
- Modernize PKI infrastructure and enable post-quantum readiness.
- Reduce operational inefficiencies with automated key and certificate lifecycle management.
With experience delivering 500+ encryption and cybersecurity projects across 25+ countries, our team guides enterprises through every stage, from assessment and roadmap development to implementation and optimization. This ensures that as you transition away from Windows 10 and other end-of-life products, your encryption strategy remains resilient, compliant, and future-ready.
Conclusion
The transition away from Windows 10 is a strategic move by Microsoft to ensure a more secure and innovative computing platform. While change requires planning, it also presents an opportunity to upgrade your systems and workflows. Addressing these end-of-life dates now will help you mitigate risk and maintain a reliable, up-to-date environment.
