Impact Group: Blog

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Windows 10 End-of-Life: What It Means for Your Business and How to Prepare

The End of Windows 10 Support is Approaching

As Microsoft has officially announced, support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for any edition of Windows 10, including:

  • Windows 10 Home
  • Windows 10 Pro
  • Windows 10 Pro Education
  • Windows 10 Pro for Workstations

While version 22H2 will continue receiving security updates until the deadline, businesses must start preparing now to ensure a smooth transition. Failure to act could leave your organization exposed to security vulnerabilities and compliance risks.

What This Means for Your Business

1. Increased Cybersecurity Risks

    • Without regular security updates, your systems will be vulnerable to cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, and data breaches. Unsupported operating systems are prime targets for cybercriminals.

    2. Compliance and Legal Issues

      • Many industries require businesses to operate on supported and secure systems to meet regulatory compliance standards. Running Windows 10 past its end-of-life date could result in non-compliance penalties or legal consequences.

      3. Hardware Compatibility Challenges

        • Not all existing devices can upgrade to Windows 11 due to its strict hardware requirements. If your hardware is outdated, you may need to plan for replacements to maintain compatibility with newer operating systems.

        4. Service Agreement Violation

          • Continued use of Windows 10 beyond October 14, 2025, will be in violation of our Master Services Agreement (MSA) and Service Attachment for Managed Services. To remain compliant and secure, businesses must transition to a supported OS before the deadline.

          How to Prepare for the Transition

          1. Assess Your Current Devices
            • Identify which computers in your network are running Windows 10.
            • Check if they meet the hardware requirements for Windows 11.
            • Determine if your hardware is still under warranty or nearing its end of life.
          2. Develop an Upgrade Strategy
            • If your devices are Windows 11-compatible, plan to upgrade before the deadline.
            • If they are not compatible, consider purchasing new devices to avoid last-minute price surges and supply chain issues.
          3. Explore Extended Security Updates (ESU)
          4. Microsoft may offer extended security updates beyond 2025, but these will come at an additional cost. Pricing details are yet to be announced.
          5. Work with IT Experts
            • Our team can help assess your current IT infrastructure and create a customized migration plan.
            • We provide Windows 11 compatibility checks, upgrade assistance, and guidance on new hardware purchases.

          Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

          The sooner you start planning, the smoother your transition will be. Waiting until the last minute may result in higher costs, delays, and security vulnerabilities.

          If you need assistance with assessing your systems, upgrading to Windows 11, or purchasing new hardware, contact us today. Our team is here to ensure your business stays secure, compliant, and fully operational.

          For more details, refer to Microsoft’s official announcement: Windows 10 End of Support Information – Microsoft

          Let’s work together to keep your business protected and future-ready.

          George Bakalov

          George Bakalov

          George Bakalov is Certified vCISO and the Director of Cybersecurity at IMPACT Group, a Minneapolis-based Managed IT Services Provider.