The End of Windows 10 Support: What You Need to Know & What to Do

1. Introduction

Microsoft has officially set the end of support date for Windows 10 to October 14, 2025. After that date, Windows 10 will no longer receive free security updates, feature updates, or technical support.

If you’re still using Windows 10, this change is critical  you need to plan what to do next to protect your device and data. In this post, we’ll walk through what “end of support” means, the risks of staying, your options, how to upgrade or transition, and tips to stay safe.

2. What Does “End of Support” Mean?

After October 14, 2025:

• No more security patches or fixes for new vulnerabilities. 

• No more feature updates or new improvements. 

• No more official technical support from Microsoft. 

• Your system will still run your files, apps, etc., will still function but over time it becomes more risky. 

Microsoft has already designated Windows 10 version 22H2 as the final feature update version, which will be the last Windows 10 release to receive servicing. 

3. Risks & Consequences of Staying on Windows 10

• Security vulnerabilities: Without patches, your system becomes more exposed to malware, exploits, ransomware, and zero-day attacks.

• Compatibility issues: New software and drivers may stop supporting Windows 10, leading to broken apps or hardware.

• No support: If something goes wrong, Microsoft won’t help you.

• Declining reliability: Over time, performance degradation, bugs, or unpatched issues may make your system unstable.

• Office / Microsoft 365 apps: Support for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 is tied to lifecycle policies; while productivity apps might continue for awhile, their support is not guaranteed indefinitely. 

However, Microsoft has announced that MS 365 / Office apps will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 for a period even after the OS EOL, up until October 10, 2028.

4. Options After October 2025

a. Upgrade to Windows 11

If your PC hardware meets the requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, CPU compatibility, etc.), this is the most recommended path. Microsoft provides tools and guidance for upgrading. 

b. Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Microsoft offers a paid ESU program to extend security updates for Windows 10 beyond its end-of-life, typically for one year (to October 13, 2026).

Note: In some regions (such as the European Economic Area) and under certain conditions (syncing with Microsoft account, etc.), free ESU may be available. 

Important caveat: To enroll in ESU, Microsoft requires devices to be linked with a Microsoft account (local accounts aren’t sufficient) in many cases.

c. Switch to another OS (Linux, etc.)

If your hardware is not compatible with Windows 11 or you prefer an alternative, migrating to a Linux distribution or another operating system may be feasible.

d. Buy a new PC

Especially for older or incompatible hardware, purchasing a new machine that comes with Windows 11 (or later) ensures long-term support and performance.

5. How to Prepare & Steps You Should Take

1. Check system compatibility
   Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check or similar tool to see if your computer meets Windows 11 minimum specs. 

2. Back up your data
   Save documents, photos, apps settings  use external drives or cloud services.

3. Enroll in ESU (if needed / possible)
   If you decide to stay on Windows 10 temporarily, get ESU before support ends.

4. Upgrade / install Windows 11
   After verifying compatibility, follow Microsoft’s upgrade process or clean install. 

5. Migrate to alternate OS (optional)
   If going Linux or another OS, test drive in a dual-boot or via USB before full migration.

6. Stay vigilant
   Use robust antivirus, firewall, keep non-Windows software updated, avoid risky websites.

6. Timeline & Key Dates

7. FAQs & Myths

Q: Will Windows 10 stop working after October 2025?
A: No — your PC will still run. But it becomes more insecure and unsupported.

Q: Can I skip Windows 11 and stay on Windows 10 long-term?
A: You can temporarily (with ESU or by taking risks), but it’s not a good long-term strategy.

Q: Is upgrading to Windows 11 free?
A: Yes, if your PC meets requirements and is on a supported version of Windows 10

Q: Are local accounts allowed with ESU?
A: In many cases, no  Microsoft requires devices to link to a Microsoft account for ESU eligibility. 

8. Conclusion

The end of Windows 10 support is a major transition point. If you leave it unchecked, your system could become vulnerable, unstable, or unsupported.

Your best path:

1. Check if your PC supports Windows 11 and upgrade.

2. If not, enroll in ESU for temporary protection.

3. Or migrate to another operating system or buy new hardware.

Don’t wait until it’s too late plan your move now to stay secure, productive, and up to date.

Need Help Upgrading or Migrating?

If you want help checking your PC compatibility, upgrading to Windows 11, or setting up a secure system 
You can always reach out to Crosz Tech
We’re here to make your transition smooth and secure.