Windows 10 Support Is Ending: What You Need to Do

Microsoft will stop free support and security updates for Windows 10 on 14 October 2025. After that date, Windows 10 devices won’t receive security fixes unless you pay for temporary Extended Security Updates (ESU). This increases risk and can affect compliance. The good news: with a simple plan, you can upgrade smoothly and improve day-to-day performance at the same time.

What’s changing and why it matters

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After the cut-off, there are no free security patches, bug fixes, or Microsoft assistance for Windows 10. Paying for ESU can buy you time for up to three years, but it’s a short-term safety net, not a long-term solution. Unsupported systems are common targets for cyberattacks, and many standards (like Cyber Essentials) expect devices to be on supported software. Delaying upgrades often leads to emergency spend and downtime; planning ahead avoids both.

Your main options

Most businesses will choose one of three paths, sometimes using a mix:

• Upgrade to Windows 11: Ideal if your PCs are fairly new (often 2019 or later). You’ll get ongoing support, stronger security, and better performance.
• Replace older PCs: Best for devices that can’t run Windows 11 or are 5+ years old. New hardware reduces support headaches and speeds up everyday work.
• Use ESU temporarily: Suitable for a few critical machines you can’t move yet. It keeps security patches coming while you finish your migration.

How to check if a PC can run Windows 11

Before you decide to upgrade or replace, confirm each device’s readiness with Microsoft’s PC Health Check app. It quickly tests key requirements like processor, RAM, storage, and TPM 2.0, then gives you a clear pass/fail result.

• Download and install PC Health Check from Microsoft.
• Open the app and click “Check now.”
• If it says “This PC can run Windows 11,” you’re good to proceed.
• If it can’t, the app tells you what’s missing so you can decide whether to upgrade components or replace the device.

A simple plan that works

Start by listing your Windows 10 devices with age, model, user, and PC Health Check results. Confirm your key apps work on Windows 11 and note any exceptions. Prioritise: which machines will upgrade, which need replacing, and which (if any) need ESU for a short period. Run a small pilot to catch issues early, then roll out in stages using a standard setup with encryption and sensible security defaults. When you’re done, securely wipe and recycle old kit and update your records for compliance.

Keep security tight during the move

• Ensure your antivirus/EDR supports Windows 11
• Use multi-factor authentication for accounts
• Apply monthly updates on a predictable schedule
• Keep any ESU devices away from sensitive systems

How Origin Connect can help

With the Windows 10 deadline approaching fast, we’ll move quickly and keep it simple.

• Asset readiness check: We’ll audit your Windows 10 estate, run (or guide you to run) PC Health Check, and confirm which devices can upgrade versus which should be replaced.
• Tailored plan of action: You’ll get a clear, phased plan with priorities, costs, and timelines—covering upgrades, replacements, and any short-term ESU exceptions.
• Rapid execution: We’ll schedule pilots, standardise builds, apply your encryption and security defaults, and roll out with minimal disruption.
• Secure wrap-up: We’ll decommission old devices safely, update records for compliance, and ensure your security tools work seamlessly on Windows 11.

Time is short. To avoid last‑minute costs and risk, let’s start your readiness check this week and lock in your migration slots.

To contact our team, give us call, send an email or fill out the form on our contact page

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