Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, devices running this version of Windows will no longer receive security updates, feature updates, or technical support.
For enterprises still using Windows 10 across large environments, this isn’t a minor change. Without ongoing support for Windows, systems become harder to maintain, harder to secure, and risk becoming incompatible with newer software or services.
The shift impacts everything from operating system security to hardware planning. If your organization hasn’t started preparing, now is the time.
Learn more: 7 Ways to Use Microsoft Copilot for Business Leadership
What Windows 10 End of Life Means for Enterprises
Once Windows 10 support ends, businesses face several immediate challenges. Unlike personal devices, enterprise systems often tie into broader infrastructure, regulatory requirements, and line-of-business applications. Continuing to use unsupported systems introduces real problems.
1. No More Security or Feature Updates
Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, patches, or bug fixes after the cut-off date. That includes protection against new vulnerabilities.
- Systems become more exposed over time
- Outdated software can become a liability during audits or security assessments
- Updated security standards may not be met, especially in regulated industries
2. Limited or No Technical Support
Microsoft and many third-party vendors will stop offering technical support for issues related to Windows 10.
- If something breaks, internal IT will have to resolve it without vendor help
- Support tickets may be rejected outright if the version of Windows is no longer covered
3. Compatibility Issues
Software providers often align with Microsoft’s support lifecycle. As a result:
- Critical apps may stop being updated for Windows 10
- Future versions of enterprise tools may not install or stop working
- Security tools and drivers could fail to meet new system requirements
4. Compliance and Legal Risk
For companies in healthcare, finance, government, and similar sectors, unsupported systems can create compliance gaps.
- Standards like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and ISO often require supported, patched systems
- Using an outdated operating system can lead to failed audits or fines
What are Your Options?
When Windows 10 reaches end of life in October 2025, enterprises have three practical paths forward. Each comes with trade-offs in terms of cost, complexity, and long-term value.
A. Upgrade to Windows 11
For most organizations, moving to Windows 11 is the clear next step. Microsoft has already positioned it as the standard going forward.
What to know:
- Windows 11 includes stronger security features, better integration with cloud tools, and ongoing feature updates.
- New hardware requirements apply. Devices without TPM 2.0 or certain CPUs won’t qualify.
- Transitioning may require replacing some older hardware entirely.
- Devices will need a Microsoft account to access certain features or manage user profiles.
If your current Windows 10 devices don’t meet the system requirements, they can’t run Windows 11. An upgrade assessment is essential before committing.
B. Enroll in the Windows 10 ESU Program
If upgrading across the board isn’t realistic right away, Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program can buy time.
Key points:
- Security-only updates will continue through October 2028, but at a cost.
- There are no feature updates, performance improvements, or new capabilities.
- Cost increases each year, and the ESU program is licensed per device.
- You’ll still need to upgrade eventually.
The ESU option can help you manage a phased rollout or support legacy systems temporarily, but it should not be viewed as a permanent fix.
C. Explore Alternatives: VDI or Cloud PCs
If you have legacy apps that require Windows 10 or hardware that can’t be upgraded:
- Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) or Windows 365 Cloud PCs may offer a short-term bridge.
- These setups let you run older versions of Windows in controlled environments.
- Useful for software testing, legacy workflows, or remote access scenarios.
This route requires careful planning but can reduce the need for immediate hardware changes.
Learn more: Why Data-Driven Companies are Turning to Microsoft Copilot
Windows 10 Enterprise End of Life: How to Prepare for the Shift
A rushed migration rarely goes well. Start planning now to avoid disruption later.
Step 1: Audit Your Devices and Infrastructure
- Identify all Windows 10 devices across departments, sites, and teams.
- Check which meet Windows 11 hardware requirements.
- Flag systems that must remain on Windows 10 and may need ESU.
Step 2: Review Your Software Stack
- Ensure all critical apps support Windows 11 or will by 2025.
- Evaluate tools that may stop working on unsupported systems.
- Identify dependencies that need extra time to update or replace.
Step 3: Build a Rollout Plan
- Decide whether to upgrade all at once or phase by department or site.
- Set internal deadlines ahead of the October 14, 2025 cutoff.
- Prepare for downtime, user training, and IT resource allocation.
Step 4: Budget for Hardware and Licensing
- Allocate funds for new devices that meet Windows 11 system requirements.
- Plan for software license changes or Microsoft account setups.
- Include potential ESU costs for systems that will stay on Windows 10 short-term.
Step 5: Communicate Early and Clearly
- Let teams know what’s changing and when.
- Provide training for users moving to a new operating system.
- Assign responsibilities across IT, procurement, and compliance teams.
Act Now Before the Deadline Becomes a Disruption
The Windows 10 end of life date is on October 14, 2025. This will affect your organization’s security posture and compliance standing.
The time to assess and act is now. Waiting until the last minute will limit your options and increase your risk.
If you need help preparing for the transition to Windows 11, we’re the experts. Davenport Group can assess your environment, recommend a strategy, and guide your upgrade or ESU enrollment.
Contact us today to get started.
Windows 10 End of Life Support: FAQ
Windows 10 reaches end of life on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing updates and support.
Devices will no longer receive security updates, feature updates, or technical support, making them vulnerable and harder to maintain.
Windows 10 Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) versions have a longer support window—up to 10 years depending on the release—but most enterprise devices run editions that end in 2025.
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) through 2028 for a fee. This includes critical security updates, but no new features.