Windows 10 reached its end of life on October 14, 2025, marking the end of an era for one of the most widely used operating systems of all time. Whether you’re a home user, a small business owner, or an IT manager overseeing thousands of machines, this shift affects you. In this guide, we’ll explain what Windows 10 EoL means, what your options are, and how to plan your next steps.
When Was Windows 10 End of Life? (EoL)
Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. From this date forward, Microsoft no longer provides:
- Security updates
- Bug fixes
- Technical support
- Feature updates
Your PC will continue to function, but the lack of updates makes it increasingly vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
Why Is Microsoft Ending Support?
Windows 10 was launched in July 2015. Microsoft supports operating systems for approximately 10 years. With Windows 11 now the flagship OS, Microsoft has ended support for Windows 10 in order to focus development and security resources on newer platforms.
Who Is Affected?
All users of Windows 10 Home, Pro, Education, and Workstation editions are affected by this end-of-life deadline. As of late 2025, Windows 10 still powered roughly 40% of PCs worldwide, meaning millions are impacted by this change.
What Are Your Options for Windows 10 EoL?
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC meets the system requirements, upgrading to Windows 11 is the best long-term move. Most users with a genuine Windows 10 license can upgrade for free. Use the PC Health Check tool or Windows Update to check compatibility.
2. Buy a New PC
If your current system is too old to support Windows 11, consider investing in a modern PC with Windows 11 pre-installed. New machines offer better performance, security, and compatibility with future updates.
3. Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers a one-year Extended Security Updates program through October 2026. For most users who log in with a Microsoft account, these updates are free. However, they only include critical security fixes and no new features. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to enroll if eligible.
4. Stay on Windows 10 (Not Recommended)
While your PC will still run Windows 10, this is not a safe long-term strategy. If you must delay your upgrade, use antivirus protection and consider disconnecting your PC from the internet to minimize exposure. But keep in mind that this is a temporary solution at best.
5. Install an Alternative OS
Tech-savvy users may opt to install Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Linux Mint. These operating systems can extend the life of older hardware and remain secure without requiring a Microsoft license.
What Businesses and IT Departments Should Know
Enterprises running large fleets of Windows 10 machines face serious cybersecurity and compliance risks post-EOL. Because Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements, many existing systems will need to be replaced.
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for enterprise environments, but this is only a short-term fix. Most organizations will need to invest in new hardware and roll out a migration plan.
When replacing legacy hardware, secure IT asset disposition becomes critical. Improper disposal can expose your business to data breaches or environmental violations. exIT Technologies offers certified data center decommissioning services to help safely remove and recycle old equipment.
We also help you recapture value from retired systems. You can:
Need Help with an IT Refresh?
Whether you’re a small business with aging laptops or a Fortune 500 IT director planning a full refresh, exIT Technologies can help. Our team handles everything from secure data erasure and logistics to IT equipment buyback and sustainability reporting.
Contact us today for a free consultation or asset valuation quote.
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