According to Microsoft,

After 14 October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes.

First released in July 2015, Windows 10 quickly became one of the most widely used operating systems, offering businesses and individuals a reliable, secure and user-friendly platform. However, as Microsoft shifts its focus to newer technologies like Windows 11, Windows 10 end of support marks a critical deadline. Without security updates, users risk vulnerabilities that could compromise their systems, making it essential to plan for a transition to a supported operating system.

What Does “End of Support” Mean?

Windows 10 End of Support means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or free software updates. While devices running Windows 10 will still function, they will no longer receive critical patches to address newly discovered vulnerabilities. This also means Microsoft will stop offering official technical assistance, leaving users without direct support for troubleshooting or issue resolution.

Beyond security updates, End of Support impacts the long-term usability of the operating system. As Microsoft shifts its focus to newer platforms like Windows 11, Windows 10 will no longer be optimized for performance improvements or software compatibility. Over time, users may notice a decline in efficiency as newer applications and hardware are designed with supported operating systems in mind. Without ongoing updates and support, businesses and individuals should begin preparing for a transition to ensure their systems remain functional and secure.

The Risks of Staying on Windows 10 After Support Ends

“Organizations running legacy software are vulnerable to significant security risk and potential compliance violations,” says Microsoft Principal Product Manager, Jason Leznek.

One of the biggest risks of continuing to use Windows 10 after support ends is the increased vulnerability to cyberattacks. Without security updates, any newly discovered weaknesses in the system will remain unpatched, making it easier for hackers to exploit them. This significantly raises the risk of malware infections, ransomware attacks, and data breaches, which can lead to severe financial and reputational damage.

Beyond cybersecurity threats, organizations may face compliance and legal risks. Many industries require businesses to follow strict security protocols, and using an unsupported operating system could result in non-compliance, fines, or legal consequences.

Additionally, as software developers prioritize newer platforms, businesses relying on Windows 10 may experience compatibility issues with modern applications and hardware, potentially disrupting workflows and reducing productivity.

Maintaining an unsupported OS can also lead to higher costs. Without Microsoft’s official support, businesses may need to dedicate additional IT resources to troubleshooting and risk management.

How To Prepare For Windows 10 End of Support

With Windows 10 support ending in October, businesses must take proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition. Upgrading in advance can prevent security risks, compatibility issues, and last-minute disruptions. Here are three key options to help with the transition:

• Option 1: Plan Your Upgrade Timeline

  A structured upgrade plan is crucial to ensuring business continuity and minimizing risks. Start by assessing your current IT environment to identify systems that need to be upgraded. Microsoft recommends transitioning to Windows 11, which offers enhanced security and performance features, but careful planning is required to prevent compatibility issues and downtime.

  Working with an experienced IT service provider like Adventus can help streamline the upgrade process, ensuring a seamless transition with minimal disruptions. From system assessments to deployment planning, having expert support ensures that all critical applications and business operations remain unaffected during the transition.

• Option 2: Evaluate Your Hardware Compatibility

  Not all Windows 10 devices are compatible with Windows 11 due to stricter system requirements. For outdated devices, upgrading to modern, compliant hardware is the most reliable long-term solution. As Microsoft warns, “Users who bypass Windows 11 hardware requirements risk losing access to critical security updates.” Additionally, incompatible devices may suffer from performance issues or even potential damage.

  For organizations with multiple workstations, a phased upgrade approach can be beneficial. Working with an IT service provider ensures thorough hardware assessments, cost-effective recommendations, and efficient transition management. This helps businesses stay up-to-date while minimizing unnecessary disruptions.

• Option 3: Strengthen Your Patch Management Strategy

  If your organization needs extra time to transition, maintaining strong cybersecurity practices is crucial. Implementing a robust patch management strategy will help reduce vulnerabilities and ensure that all systems remain secure during the transition period. Businesses that need additional time to transition can benefit from managed IT services that provide ongoing maintenance, proactive monitoring, and regular updates to minimize security risks.

How Adventus Can Help

With Windows 10 reaching its end of support, staying ahead with system updates is more important than ever. Managing updates and transitioning to a new operating system can be complex, but Adventus Patch Management Services can help you handle your system updates, your devices will always receive the latest security patches, reducing vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

For organizations preparing to upgrade, moving to Windows 11 requires careful planning to avoid compatibility issues and disruptions. Adventus simplifies this process by assessing your IT infrastructure, managing deployments, and ensuring a seamless transition. Beyond system updates, strengthening security is just as critical. Beyond patch management, Adventus provides a suite of Cybersecurity Solutions and Services designed to strengthen your network security and protect against evolving threats.

Reach out to Adventus to explore your options today!