What does end of support for Windows 10 mean?

16/04/26 Wavenet
What does end of support for Windows 10 mean? placeholder thumbnail

The ultimate guide to Windows 10 end of support: what you need to know and how to prepare

As of October 2025, Microsoft ended support for Windows 10. If your organisation still relies on Windows 10, this change could have serious implications for your security, compliance, and day-to-day operations. As at the time of writing, more that 40% of UK devices are still running Windows 10.

This blog outlines what the end of support means, who it affects, and what steps you should be taking now to prepare.

 

What does end of support mean?

Since 14 October 2025, Microsoft no longer provides:

    • Security updates for Windows 10
    • Bug fixes
    • Technical support

This means that vulnerabilities will remain unpatched, leaving systems exposed to cyber threats. For organisations handling sensitive data or operating in regulated sectors, this poses a significant compliance risk.

Additionally, many software vendors are already announcing that their applications will no longer be supported on Windows 10. This could lead to compatibility issues with critical business tools and hinder your Windows 11 upgrade process.

 

Does end of support for Windows 10 affect your organisation?

If you're still using Windows 10, the answer is yes.

Organisations typically fall into one of three categories:

    • Those already planning their Windows 11 upgrade
    • Those aware of the Windows 10 deadline but are yet to act
    • Those unaware of the Windows 10 end-of-support

For sectors like healthcare, finance, and legal, the urgency for Windows 11 migration is even more pressing due to strict compliance requirements. Businesses with older hardware may also face challenges, as Windows 11 requires features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot - many older devices don’t support these, complicating the Windows 11 upgrade.

Manufacturing and industrial environments may need to consider how Windows 11 upgrades affect specialised equipment and legacy software.

Furthermore, many organisations turned to extended security updated (ESU) for Windows 10, however this is only a short-term stopgap solution. Costs for ESU are set to double annually, so now is the time to look at your other options.

 

What are your options now Windows 10 support has ended?

There are several paths available depending on your current setup:

    • Hardware refresh for Windows 11
      Upgrading to new Windows 11-ready devices ensure full compatibility and improved performance. This is the most future-proof option for Windows 11 deployment.
    • In-place Windows upgrade
      If your current devices meet Windows 11 requirements, tools like Microsoft Intune can automate the upgrade with minimal disruption.
    • Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) for Windows 11
      AVD allows you to run Windows 11 from the cloud, even on older devices. This is ideal for organisations with functional hardware that doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements.

 

What are the next steps in your Windows 11 migration strategy?

Start with a full assessment of your IT estate:

    • Check device compatibility using tools like PC health check or Intune readiness reports.
    • Review application dependencies and test compatibility with Windows 11.
    • Consider your security and business continuity requirements for Windows 11 rollout.

Once you understand your position, plan a phased rollout:

    • Begin with a pilot group
    • Test applications thoroughly
    • Train users on the new interface
    • Monitor performance and feedback

If you're considering Windows 11 deployment using AVD, factor in network bandwidth, user experience, and licensing requirements.

 

Final thoughts

The transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is more than a technical update; it’s an opportunity to modernise your workplace and strengthen your digital foundations.

If you're unsure where to start, our Modern Workplace team can guide you through the process - from assessment to deployment and beyond, our Windows 11 Migration Service will ensure a smooth, secure Windows 11 rollout.


Ready to receive support for your essential Windows 11 upgrade?

Talk to us

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