Windows 10 End of life: How to prepare for it by moving to Windows 11?

Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, nearly a decade after its release. While your Windows 10 devices will still run beyond that date, they will no longer receive critical security patches, bug fixes, feature updates, or official technical support from Microsoft.

This is a significant shift. Windows 10 powers over one billion devices worldwide, meaning businesses, schools, and individuals who depend on these systems must prepare for what comes next.

The End of Life (EOL) of Windows 10 is not just about losing cosmetic updates, it’s about rising security risks, compliance challenges, and operational hurdles. In this blog, we will break down what Windows 10 EOL really means, the risks of sticking with it, your upgrade options, and how IT teams can manage the transition smoothly with the right tools.

What is EOL for Windows 10?

When Microsoft declares that a product has reached End of Life (EOL), it means the product will no longer be actively supported. In practical terms, this marks the end of updates, fixes, and official help from Microsoft. For Windows 10, this milestone arrives on October 14, 2025.

Here’s what Windows 10 support end or EOL really means:

• No more security patches to fix vulnerabilities, leaving devices exposed to malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks.
• No more bug fixes to resolve software glitches or performance issues.
• No technical support from Microsoft, making troubleshooting harder for IT teams and individual users alike.
• No new features or compatibility updates, which means newer applications and hardware may eventually stop working on Windows 10.

Currently, Windows 10 is in its extended support phase, where it still receives critical patches and security updates but no new features. Once the cutoff date passes, even those critical updates will stop. From that day forward, any flaw discovered will remain unpatched turning Windows 10 devices into attractive targets for attackers.

Key dates to remember

• Windows 10 End of Life: October 14, 2025
• Extended Security Updates (ESUs): Offered to enterprise customers through volume licensing until October 2028 (at an increasing cost each year).
• EEA (European Economic Area) Users: Eligible for free ESUs until October 13, 2026, giving organizations in the region an extra year of protection.

The end of support doesn’t mean devices will suddenly stop working, but they will slowly become less secure, less compatible, and more difficult to manage. For businesses, especially in regulated industries such as healthcare, finance, education, or government, continuing to run unsupported systems can lead to compliance failures, security incidents, and reputational risks.

Risks of staying on Windows 10 after EOL (End of life)

The decision to continue running Windows 10 after October 14, 2025 may seem convenient in the short term, but it introduces long-term challenges that can have serious business, financial, and reputational consequences. Here’s why:

1. Security vulnerabilities

Once Microsoft stops releasing security patches, Windows 10 instantly becomes a soft target for attackers. Any newly discovered flaw will remain unpatched, giving cybercriminals a clear opening. This makes devices highly susceptible to malware, ransomware campaigns, data breaches, and zero-day exploits. Hackers often scan for outdated systems specifically because they know the vulnerabilities will never be fixed. For businesses, a single attack could compromise sensitive data or disrupt critical operations.

2. Regulatory compliance issues

Organizations in industries such as healthcare, finance, education, and government must comply with strict regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI-DSS. These frameworks require supported and secure systems as part of their compliance checklists. Running an unsupported OS like Windows 10 after EOL could lead to failed audits, penalties, lawsuits, or even loss of licenses. For regulated businesses, ignoring the upgrade isn’t just a technical risk, it’s a legal and financial liability.

3. Software and driver incompatibility

After Windows 10 reaches EOL, software vendors and hardware manufacturers will gradually drop support for it. Applications may stop receiving updates, new versions may not install, and hardware drivers for printers, scanners, or other peripherals may no longer work. This results in reduced performance, frequent crashes, or total incompatibility with modern tools which may slow down workflows and hurt employee productivity.

4. Increased IT burden

Without Microsoft’s centralized updates, IT teams will have to come up with workarounds such as manual patching, isolating legacy systems from networks, or creating segmented environments. All of these strategies are labor-intensive, costly, and unsustainable over time. Instead of focusing on innovation or business priorities, IT departments end up spending more resources simply keeping outdated systems afloat.

5. Reputational and operational risk

A security breach, compliance violation, or major downtime caused by unsupported systems doesn’t just impact operations, it affects brand reputation and customer trust. Customers expect businesses to safeguard their data, and stakeholders expect reliable systems. Running outdated software creates the perception of negligence, and the damage from a reputational hit often lasts much longer than the immediate incident.

What comes after Windows 10 End of Life (EOL)?

When Windows 10 reaches its End of Life on October 14, 2025, users and organizations must decide how to move forward. While devices won’t stop functioning immediately, running an unsupported operating system comes with growing risks, security gaps, compliance issues, and compatibility challenges. To avoid disruption, it’s important to plan ahead and choose the right path. Here are the main options available:

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11

The most logical and secure path is to upgrade to Windows 11. Unlike Windows 10, which is winding down, Windows 11 represents Microsoft’s long-term vision for modern computing. It is designed with today’s hybrid workplaces in mind, balancing productivity, collaboration, and security. For businesses, this option ensures future readiness and long-term stability, while individual users benefit from a more polished and intuitive experience.

Why upgrade to Windows 11?

• Redesigned Interface: A cleaner, more modern look with centered taskbar, rounded windows, and simplified navigation.
• Built-in Security: Requirements like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot help protect against firmware attacks and ransomware.
• Productivity Features: Tools like Snap Layouts, Virtual Desktops, and Focus Assist streamline multitasking and help employees work more efficiently.
• Hybrid Work Support: Better integration with Microsoft Teams, touch and pen improvements, and enhanced remote-work capabilities.
• Long-Term Support: Windows 11 will receive updates and enterprise support until at least 2031, giving businesses years of stability.

Upgrading is the best long-term investment for both individuals and organizations.

Option 2: Purchase extended security updates (ESUs)

If upgrading immediately isn’t practical due to legacy applications, budget restrictions, or hardware limitations, Microsoft provides Extended Security Updates (ESUs) as a temporary safety net. This option is specifically designed for businesses that need more time to complete migrations but cannot afford to leave systems unprotected. ESUs help close the gap, but they come at a rising cost and should only be seen as a short-term bridge, not a permanent solution.

What ESUs provide:

• Security updates only (no new features, bug fixes, or performance improvements).
• Coverage from October 2025 to October 2028.
• Availability only to enterprise customers via volume licensing.

How much does it cost?

• For consumers / personal use: $30 per device for the first year (one-year option only)
• For businesses / enterprises: $61 per device in Year One.

The price doubles each year, meaning Year Two is $122, and Year Three rises to $244 per device

Note: In the European Economic Area (EEA), ESUs are being offered free for one year.

How long does it last?

• Up to three years of coverage, ending October 2028.
• Designed as a short-term bridge for companies managing complex migrations.

What are the limitations?

• No new features or enhancements.
• No general Microsoft tech support.
• No bug fixes or stability improvements.
• Strictly security updates only.

How do you sign up?
Starting July 2025, you will be able to enroll directly from your PC settings:

• Go to Settings > Updates & Security > Windows Update
• Look for a message about the end of support
• Click Enroll now and follow the instructions

ESUs can buy you time, but they are expensive and not a long-term fix.

Option 3: Consider alternate operating systems

Some users and organizations may view Windows 10 EOL as an opportunity to explore other operating systems. This route is less common but can be appealing for schools, developers, or IT teams that don’t rely heavily on Windows-specific apps. While alternatives can extend hardware life and reduce licensing costs, they also come with compatibility challenges and require training for end-users.

• Linux: Popular among developers, IT teams, and those who need lightweight, customizable systems. Free to use, but requires a steep learning curve and compatibility workarounds for Windows-specific apps.
  
• ChromeOS Flex: A free, cloud-first OS from Google designed for schools and basic productivity. Easy to deploy on older hardware but limited when it comes to running traditional desktop applications.

These alternatives are best for specialized use cases rather than broad enterprise adoption.

Option 4: Continue using Windows 10

Technically, you can continue using Windows 10 after support ends, but this comes with significant risk. Without regular updates, your systems will slowly become less secure, less compatible, and harder to manage. Businesses that choose this path will need to rely on extra layers of defense, such as advanced antivirus or network isolation, which can be costly and still leave gaps. For individual users with offline devices, this may be tolerable for a while, but for organizations handling sensitive data, it is not a sustainable option.

Risks include:

• No security updates or patches.
• Increased vulnerability to malware and ransomware.
• Potential non-compliance with data privacy laws.
• Loss of compatibility with new apps and hardware.

Unless you have ESUs in place or rely heavily on third-party antivirus (which still doesn’t replace Microsoft’s patches), this option is highly unsafe for businesses.

Option 5: Purchase a new Windows 11 Computer

If your current hardware doesn’t meet Windows 11’s stricter requirements such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or supported processors, buying a new PC may be the most straightforward path forward. This ensures full compatibility and allows you to benefit from modern hardware improvements like faster processors, longer battery life, and stronger security.

For businesses, buying new devices is also an opportunity to refresh aging infrastructure, improve employee productivity, and standardize device management. For individuals, it’s often the simplest way to move on from Windows 10 without worrying about limitations or ESU costs.

Why this makes sense:

• You get modern hardware that’s faster, more reliable, and more secure.
• Avoids the hassle of upgrading unsupported systems.
• Ideal opportunity to refresh outdated infrastructure and boost performance.

For individuals, this may be the most straightforward upgrade. For businesses, it allows a phased replacement strategy, where older devices are retired in batches while maintaining operational continuity.

Is your device ready for Windows 11 upgrade?

Before upgrading, the first step is to confirm whether your existing hardware can actually run Windows 11. Microsoft has stricter requirements compared to Windows 10, mainly to improve security and performance. Devices that don’t meet these requirements won’t be officially supported.

Minimum hardware requirements

To install Windows 11, your PC must meet the following baseline specifications:

• TPM 2.0 chip: The Trusted Platform Module is a hardware security chip required for encryption, secure sign-ins, and protection against credential theft.
• Secure Boot enabled: Ensures that only trusted operating system files are loaded during startup, preventing rootkits and malicious code from taking control.
• Supported processor: Intel 8th Gen or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer, and select Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. Older CPUs are not supported.
• 4 GB RAM (minimum): While this is the baseline, 8 GB or more is strongly recommended for smooth performance in enterprise environments.
• 64 GB storage (minimum): This is the bare minimum. In practice, at least 128 GB of free storage is recommended to handle updates, applications, and business data.

If your device does not meet one or more of these requirements, Windows 11 installation will be blocked by default.

How to check compatibility?

• Microsoft provides a simple tool called the PC Health Check app.
• Download and run it to instantly check if your device is eligible.
• It will highlight which requirements are missing (e.g., TPM disabled in BIOS or an unsupported CPU).

For larger organizations, manually checking each device is impractical. Instead, IT teams can use Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platforms to:

• Run device readiness checks at scale.
• Generate compliance reports.
• Identify which systems can be upgraded, and which need replacement.

If your device isn’t eligible

Not every PC will pass the test. Here are the main options if your current hardware isn’t compatible:

• Replace older hardware with Windows 11-certified devices. This is the most reliable long-term option and an opportunity to modernize your infrastructure.
• Registry workarounds exist that allow unsupported devices to run Windows 11. However, Microsoft does not recommend or support this for enterprises, as it creates future update and stability risks. It may be acceptable for home users but not for businesses.
• Fall back on Extended Security Updates (ESUs) if you must continue running Windows 10 for a while longer. This buys time but comes at an extra cost.
• Conduct a phased hardware refresh. Replace incompatible devices in batches while continuing to secure older systems with ESUs or additional controls until migration is complete.

Checking device readiness early is crucial. Enterprises should start audits now to avoid last-minute surprises and budget shocks. For individuals, upgrading hardware may be unavoidable if the device is older than 2017.

Benefits of upgrading to Windows 11

Upgrading to Windows 11 is more than just keeping up with Microsoft’s roadmap, it’s about future-proofing your systems with stronger security, faster performance, and smarter tools for modern work. Here’s what makes the upgrade worthwhile:

1. Improved security

Windows 11 is built with Zero Trust principles in mind, giving businesses a stronger defense against today’s sophisticated cyber threats.

• Secure Boot ensures that only trusted software can load during startup, blocking rootkits and unauthorized code.
• TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) adds a hardware-based layer of encryption and credential protection.
• Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) and Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI) isolate critical processes to reduce attack surfaces.

With ransomware and phishing attacks on the rise, these built-in defenses make Windows 11 far safer than Windows 10.

2. Better performance

Windows 11 is optimized to take advantage of modern CPUs and GPUs, delivering faster performance across the board.

• Apps and services load quicker thanks to better memory management.
• Improved battery efficiency for laptops ensures longer uptime for hybrid and mobile workers.
• Smarter resource allocation means smoother multitasking, even when running multiple apps simultaneously.

This translates into less downtime, quicker workflows, and a noticeable boost in employee productivity.

3. Enhanced productivity

Microsoft has designed Windows 11 with productivity at its core.

• Snap Layouts & Snap Groups let users organize windows more effectively, making multitasking effortless.
• Virtual Desktops allow employees to separate workspaces (e.g., one for projects, another for meetings).
• Widgets & Microsoft Teams integration bring information and collaboration directly into the desktop experience.

These features empower teams to stay focused and organized, especially in hybrid work environments.

4. Modern user experience

Windows 11 introduces a refined, user-friendly interface that improves accessibility and usability for everyone.

• A centered taskbar and redesigned Start menu make navigation cleaner and more intuitive.
• Touchscreen, stylus, and voice input improvements create more flexible ways to interact with devices.
• Enhanced accessibility features, such as improved screen readers and live captions, ensure inclusivity.

The result is a desktop experience that feels modern, polished, and welcoming across all types of devices.

5. Extended support

By moving to Windows 11, organizations secure access to a decade of ongoing support and updates.

• Microsoft has committed to long-term servicing and security patches until at least 2031 for enterprise editions.
• This ensures businesses remain compliant with industry regulations and security frameworks.
• Long-term stability reduces the need for disruptive OS changes in the near future.

With extended support, IT teams can plan confidently and focus on strategic initiatives instead of patching outdated systems.

In short: Windows 11 combines stronger security, faster performance, and smarter tools in a modern, stable package that will carry businesses into the next decade with confidence.

Windows 10 vs Windows 11: Key Differences That Matter

Here’s how Windows 11 stacks up against Windows 10 across key parameters:

Windows 11 is built to meet the needs of modern workplaces with security and productivity at its core.

How should IT teams prepare for the end of support for Windows 10?

Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is not just about installing a new operating system. It is a major migration project that requires planning, testing, and coordination across the business. A structured approach will minimize disruption, keep employees productive, and ensure systems stay secure during the change. Here’s how IT teams should prepare:

1. Conduct a comprehensive inventory audit

Start by creating a complete inventory of all Windows 10 devices in your environment. This should include:

• Hardware specs (CPU, RAM, storage, TPM version, Secure Boot status)
• Device type (desktop, laptop, thin client, etc.)
• User roles and assigned applications.

Group devices into eligible and non-eligible categories based on Windows 11’s requirements. This gives IT clear visibility into how many devices can be directly upgraded and how many will require replacement.

2. Evaluate application compatibility

Applications are often the biggest roadblock in OS migrations. Test all mission-critical software in a Windows 11 test environment.

• Verify compatibility with line-of-business apps, drivers, and plugins.
• Work closely with vendors to ensure updated versions are available before migration.
• Use tools like Microsoft App Assure or cloud test labs to streamline compatibility testing.

This step ensures business workflows continue smoothly after the switch.

3. Build a communication and training plan

Employee readiness is just as important as technical readiness. Without proper training, productivity can drop during and after the upgrade.

• Communicate early about timelines and what employees should expect.
• Share guides and FAQs highlighting new features like Snap Layouts, Teams integration, and virtual desktops.
• Run short training sessions to help users adapt quickly.

This helps reduce confusion and builds confidence among employees.

4. Prepare for Windows backup and recovery

No migration is risk-free, so IT must prepare for worst-case scenarios.

• Back up all critical data, profiles, and configurations before upgrading.
• Create rollback plans to restore Windows 10 in case of compatibility failures.
• Test recovery processes to make sure they actually work under pressure.

By securing data and having rollback strategies in place, IT minimizes downtime and protects against costly data loss.

5. Use UEM for centralized upgrade management

Managing upgrades one device at a time does not scale, especially for enterprises with thousands of endpoints. This is where Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platforms are critical.

• Remotely trigger Windows 11 upgrades across devices.
• Enforce compliance with security and configuration policies.
• Automate post-upgrade settings, app installations, and security baselines.
• Monitor progress in real time with dashboards and reports.

UEM solutions reduce manual effort and give IT complete visibility into the migration process, ensuring no device is left behind.

Upgrade to Windows 11 with confidence using Scalefusion

Migrating an entire workforce to Windows 11 can feel daunting, especially for enterprises with remote or hybrid teams. This is where Scalefusion UEM makes the process easier.

With Scalefusion, IT admins can:

• Identify devices eligible for upgrade and flag hardware gaps
• Detect compliance issues before rollout
• Prioritize and schedule upgrades based on business needs
• Automate OS deployments with minimal end-user disruption
• Monitor progress in real time through a single, centralized dashboard

Scalefusion ensures that the upgrade process is smooth, secure, and scalable reducing IT workload while delivering a better experience for employees.

Start your upgrade journey today, book a free demo or start your 14-day trial and see how Scalefusion can help you seamlessly upgrade to Windows 11.

FAQs

1. Can businesses keep using Windows 10 after support ends?

Yes, businesses can technically keep using Windows 10 after support ends, but it won’t receive security patches or feature updates. This increases the risk of vulnerabilities and compliance issues. Organizations handling sensitive data should consider upgrading to Windows 11 or enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for continued protection.

2. Is Windows 10 end of life extended to 2026?

No, Windows 10’s official end of support date remains October 14, 2025. However, Microsoft has announced an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that allows businesses and individuals to purchase additional security updates through October 2028. This is not a free extension but a paid option for those unable to upgrade immediately.

3. What happens if I keep Windows 10 after End of Life (EOL)?

If you continue using Windows 10 after End of Life, your system won’t receive security updates, bug fixes, or new features. Over time, this makes your PC more vulnerable to malware, cyberattacks, and performance issues. You may also face compatibility problems with newer software and compliance risks in regulated industries.

4. Is it safe to use Windows 10 after EOL?

Using Windows 10 after End of Life is not considered safe, especially for businesses. Without regular security patches, devices are exposed to new threats and vulnerabilities. While antivirus software may provide some protection, it cannot replace critical system updates. For long-term security, upgrading to Windows 11 or purchasing Extended Security Updates (ESU) is recommended.

5. How much does Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) cost?

The cost of Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) varies by license type and year. Microsoft typically increases the fee annually to encourage upgrades. While exact pricing for Windows 10 ESU hasn’t been fully disclosed, businesses can expect costs per device, similar to previous ESU programs, starting at around $50–$60 per year.