Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on 14th October 2025, as part of its standard product lifecycle policy.
The clock is ticking, and Windows 10 End of Life is fast approaching. Mainstream support is coming to an end, and businesses still running Windows 10 need to act now to keep their endpoint estate secure and supported.
With support winding down, Microsoft is giving a pretty big nudge towards Windows 11 - complete with enhanced security, modern features, and improved performance.
The good news? You don’t have to tackle the transition alone. As a trusted MSP, Nasstar is here to help you glide smoothly into the future, whether that means upgrading to Windows 11, refreshing hardware, or shoring up your compliance and security.
In this blog, we’ll break down what Windows 10 end of life really means, the risks of hanging on too long, and how to map out your next steps with confidence.
When is Windows 10 End of Life (EoL)?
Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows 10 support end date will be 14th October 2025. After this date, the operating system will no longer receive security patches, bug fixes, or technical support through the standard update channels.
This deadline applies to the majority of Windows 10 editions currently in use, including:
Home - Commonly used by individuals and small businesses
Pro - Designed for professional and business environments
Enterprise - Enterprise-scale deployments with advanced management tools
Education - Tailored for schools and learning institutions
IoT Enterprise - Used in embedded systems and specialist devices
Businesses should treat this date as a firm deadline. Upgrading entire device estates, testing application compatibility, and planning hardware refresh cycles all take time. Starting early ensures a smoother transition and reduces the risk of last-minute disruption.
October is not far away, and in IT terms, it’s right around the corner. Large-scale migrations take time - from auditing your device estate to testing applications and training users. The earlier you start planning, the less disruption you’ll face.
What will happen after the end of support?
After 14th October 2025, Windows 10 officially hangs up its boots. From that point on, no more security updates will arrive through the usual public channels, leaving systems increasingly exposed to cyber threats and potentially putting compliance on shaky ground.
Paul commented: “The biggest risk with running Windows 10 past its end of life is silent exposure. You won’t see the vulnerabilities, but cyber criminals will. Without regular patches, every month that passes increases the attack surface of your business.”
In short, Microsoft won’t be there to back you up anymore. That means troubleshooting becomes trickier, fixes take longer, and support costs are likely to creep up. It’s not exactly the kind of legacy you want your IT estate to carry.
Can you still use Windows 10 after 2025?
“Yes, technically you can still use Windows 10 after 2025, but it’s a bit like driving a car without insurance. It might get you from A to B for a while, but if something goes wrong, the costs and risks could be far greater than the upfront effort of upgrading”, said Paul.
Running Windows 10 after its End of Life date may still be possible, but it’s not recommended. Here’s why:
No more security updates leaves Windows 10 devices increasingly vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats
Unsupported systems risk falling out of industry compliance
Microsoft will not provide technical assistance, making troubleshooting more complex and costly
Third-party vendors may stop certifying their applications for Windows 10
Ageing, unsupported environments typically drive up operational costs due to manual fixes and workarounds
What are your options?
If you’re currently running Windows 10, you have a few options when establishing what you’ll do when Windows 10 EoL hits.
Upgrade to Windows 11 where the hardware is compatible - Recommended
Replace non compatible/legacy hardware
Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) and continue to run Windows 10
Upgrade to Windows 11
Windows 11 has been the main focus of Microsoft’s client operating system development for several years. And with good reason. This system offers a number of tangible benefits for businesses seeking an option after Windows 10 End of Life.
Benefits of upgrading to Windows 11:
Improved security such as TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and Virtualisation-Based Security (VBS)
Improved performance - faster boot time and improved resource management
A more intuitive and modern user interface
Seamless integration with M365 services such as Office, Teams, and OneDrive
Most modern PCs can run Windows 11 successfully, but it’s best to confirm compatibility for your Windows 10 devices with the manufacturer directly. The main requirements include:
A compatible 64-bit processor
UEFI firmware with Secure Boot enabled
TPM version 2.0
Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just about ticking a compliance box. It’s an opportunity to modernise your IT environment with stronger security, better performance, and closer integration with Microsoft 365 - benefits that deliver real value to the business.
Nasstar has supported many clients to migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11, addressing the challenges associated with the Windows 10 End of Life deadline. Our services include facilitating obsolete hardware replacement, executing upgrades via Microsoft Intune, and delivering comprehensive strategic Endpoint assessment programs
Replace non-compatible/legacy hardware
New Windows devices routinely ship with Windows 11 pre-installed, successfully addressing the Windows 10 EOL issue instantly. With both old and new devices available, users can seamlessly transfer data and applications safely and securely. In addition, device management solutions like Intune can automatically provision and configure new devices as needed.
Like many options here, there are benefits and challenges of using hardware replacement as your Windows 10 EoL solution.
Benefits of hardware replacement:
Hardware replacement allows for seamless transitions, as the existing Windows 10 device can be efficiently exchanged for the updated model
New hardware typically offers enhanced performance, subject to its specifications
New devices are generally supplied with a warranty, providing additional assurance
Updated hardware is expected to deliver an extended operational lifespan
Challenges of hardware replacement:
Budget limitations can restrict the ability to acquire new hardware
If current Windows 10 devices are compatible with Windows 11 and continue to meet performance requirements, replacing them might not maximise asset utilisation
Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU) and continue to run Windows 10
For organisations not yet ready to move away from Windows 10, Microsoft offers the option to purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU). This approach allows you to continue using existing devices while maintaining access to critical security patches beyond the Windows 10 End of Life date. ESU can provide valuable time for businesses that rely on legacy applications or need more runway before a full migration to Windows 11.
There are tradeoffs to consider when relying on ESU as your Windows 10 EoL solution, though.
Benefits of Windows 10 ESU:
Continue to use the same Windows 10 device with zero impact to users
Can be useful for maintaining legacy applications that may not be compatible with Windows 11 yet
Challenges of Windows 10 ESU:
An additional cost that increases over time
It’s a temporary solution, expiring in October 2028
Only includes critical and important security updates
No feature updates
No general support from Microsoft
May invalidate support of 3rd party applications
What we think
Nasstar advises organisations to upgrade all functioning, performant, and compatible devices from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This allows you to fully optimise the value of these existing assets, with Intune as the recommended provisioning solution. Devices that are problematic or incompatible should be replaced with new hardware, also provisioned through Intune to streamline and automate deployment.
Windows 10 ESU should only be considered in situations where clear technical requirements prevent the adoption of Windows 11. It is recommended that its use remains a temporary solution.
Paul said: “Our advice is clear: if your devices can run Windows 11, upgrade them. If they can’t, replace them. Extended Security Updates should only ever be a stopgap for very specific technical reasons.”
How can I migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
Intune is the most straightforward method to migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Nasstar can assist with Intune deployment and onboarding if it’s not already in place.
Here’s how we do it:
Run an Intune Windows 11 compatibility report to identify all eligible devices
Enable Autopatch in Intune
Deploy a feature update policy with Windows 11 as the target version
Target the policy at the Windows 10 devices
Monitor the Windows 11 upgrade deployment and remediate where necessary
Windows 11 upgrade challenges
Intune is capable of automating and providing visibility into the upgrade process. But some challenges may require intervention and remediation, which Nasstar can support you with.
Device health issues may impact upgrade success. These issues include:
Insufficient disk space
Conflicts with previous update configurations
Overall Windows performance degradation related to aging hardware
Where Windows-based device issues cannot be resolved, we recommend formatting the existing Windows 10 device and loading Windows 11 directly, having first backed up any data that may be required.
Employee training and adaptation can be a challenge too, with adoption and change management strategies crucial to the success of a Windows 10 to 11 migration. Windows 11 has a different look and feel to Windows 10, so it’s worth considering any specific training or user communications you may need to ensure the transition process is as smooth as possible for end users.
Windows 10 migration checklist
If you decide to migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11, there are some key items to consider before you get started. Of course, we can help you with all of this. But as a guide, we’ve compiled a Windows 10 migration checklist of questions that you can answer to ease the transition and ensure you have taken stock of everything you need to know.
How old is the device hardware?
How many devices are in good working order?
Do the devices support Windows 11?
Are all your applications compatible with Windows 1?
Is there any budget for replacement devices?
How many devices do you need to replace vs upgrade?
What tool will you use to help automate the upgrade process?
What user comms do you need to send?
What is your upgrade strategy – phased/big bang?
How will you monitor success and remediate any issues?
The key steps in migrating from Windows 10 to 11 include:
Check for Windows updates
Backup your data
Safely erase your data
Migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11 with Nasstar
Windows 10’s final curtain call is just around the corner, and while it’s tempting to hit snooze on the upgrade alarm, the risks of doing nothing are simply too high. Whether you’re planning to leap boldly into Windows 11, carefully phase out legacy hardware, or lean on ESU for a short-term breather, the key is having a strategy that keeps your business secure, compliant, and future-ready.
At Nasstar, we’ve helped countless organisations navigate this very transition - tackling compatibility headaches, hardware upgrades, and user adoption challenges with minimal disruption. Think of us as your Windows 10 exit strategy partner, guiding you toward the smoothest path forward.
So, don’t wait until October 2025 sneaks up on you. Get in touch with Nasstar today to explore the best way to navigate Windows 10 End of Life with migration options that make your journey as seamless as possible.