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

Microsoft has confirmed that support for Windows 10 will officially end on 14 October 2025. 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? 

After 14 October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide:

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

This means that any vulnerabilities discovered after that date 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 11 deadline but are yet to act 

• Those unaware of the Windows 10 end-of-support date 

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. 

What are your options after Windows 10 support ends?

There are several paths available depending on your current setup:

• Hardware refresh for Windows 11
  

  Upgrading to new Windows 11-ready devices ensures 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 

  This is ideal for organisations with functional hardware that doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements.

• Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10
  Microsoft offers paid security updates for Windows 10 beyond the end-of-support date. However, this is a short-term solution and becomes increasingly expensive over time -the cost per device doubles annually. Wavenet can assist with Windows 10 ESU licensing and support. 

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. 

Why act now on your Windows 11 migration?

Delaying your upgrade could lead to rushed decisions, higher costs, and unnecessary disruption. Planning early gives you time to: 

• Choose the right upgrade path 

• Train your team 

• Avoid downtime 

• Stay secure and compliant 

Windows 11 also introduces new features, including enhanced security and AI-powered productivity tools, which can benefit your organisation beyond the upgrade itself. 

Keep in mind, there will be increased demand for deployment skill towards the end of this year as organisations rush to meet the deadline.   

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, Wavenet’s Modern Workplace team can  guide you through the process - from assessment to deployment and beyond - to ensure a smooth, secure Windows 11 rollout.