Windows 10 End of Support: What You Need to Know (and What to Do Next)

Published 29/04/25 under:

Over the years, I’ve seen my fair share of Windows migrations. From NT4 to Windows 2000, the infamous XP to Vista attempt, and more recently, large-scale moves to Windows 10. But this one feels different.

Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025. That gives us just a few months. So if you haven’t already started thinking about your move to Windows 11, now is the time.

What Does End of Support Actually Mean?

It’s easy to skim over these announcements and think, “we’ll sort that closer to the time,” but it’s important to understand what end of support actually involves.

After October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive new features or regular security updates. Microsoft will still offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for organisations that aren’t ready in time, but these come with a significant cost per device and increase year on year.

Microsoft’s aim here is clear. They want organisations to move on.

But this isn’t just about compliance or ticking a box for IT. Without support, every Windows 10 device in your environment becomes a security risk. And with modern cyber threats moving fast, that’s not a position anyone wants to be in.

Why Windows 11?

Let’s be honest. Most users won’t notice a huge difference between Windows 10 and 11 in terms of how they work day to day. But under the hood, Windows 11 brings in stricter hardware requirements and stronger built-in security measures.

Features like TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and more consistent update handling all contribute to a platform that’s more secure and more modern. It’s also been designed with hybrid work in mind, with better cloud integration and less reliance on traditional corporate networks.

That said, not every device will be compatible, and not every application will behave perfectly out of the box. That’s where planning comes in.

So, What Are Your Options?

When I talk to customers, I always stress this. There’s no single answer. Most organisations will take a blended approach to migration. Here’s what to consider:

1. Upgrade What You Can

Some of your existing devices will already meet the requirements for Windows 11. Tools like Microsoft’s PC Health Check or Intune (if you’re using it) can help you assess compatibility across the estate. Just bear in mind that “minimum spec” doesn’t always mean “fit for purpose” in the long term.

2. Refresh Where You Need To

Older hardware, especially laptops over three years old, may struggle to keep up with Windows 11’s demands. In these cases, replacing devices may be more efficient and cost-effective, especially if you align it with your normal refresh cycle.

3. Revisit Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktop platforms such as Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) or Citrix DaaS can be an excellent way to extend the life of older hardware while still delivering a secure and modern experience. They’re particularly useful for remote users, contractors, or teams working with legacy applications.

4. Plan a Fallback

For devices that absolutely cannot be migrated in time, ESUs are available. But these should be treated as a safety net rather than a long-term solution. We can help you identify where they’re needed and build a strategy to phase them out as soon as possible.

What You Should Be Doing Now

Whether you’re a 100-user firm or a 5,000-user enterprise, the first steps are broadly the same:

• Take stock of your current devices. Understand what’s running, what’s compatible, and what’s at risk.
• Map out your business-critical applications. Ensure they’ll run smoothly on Windows 11 or identify where remediation is required.
• Engage your users early. Even small UI changes can throw people off. Clear communication goes a long way.
• Run a pilot. Start with a small group, test your rollout, and learn from it before scaling.
• Decide on your mix. Most environments will include a combination of device upgrades, refreshes, and virtual desktop solutions.

Need a Hand?

At Kerv Transform, we’ve supported a wide range of Windows migration projects. We bring not just the technical know-how, but the user experience, security, and commercial insight needed to deliver it well.

If you’re unsure where to start, we offer a Windows 11 Readiness Assessment. It’s a focused engagement that helps you understand your current state, identify any blockers, and build a practical roadmap.