Preparing for Windows 10 End of Life
Nicholas Mutsaerts
System Administrator | Microsoft 365 Specialist | IT Support Specialist | Technical Writer | Linux Enthusiast
Windows 10 will officially reach its end of support on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
It is estimated that between 200 and 300 million Windows 10 desktop computers and laptops will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 due to the new minimum requirements. The Windows 11 minimum requirements include:
TPM 2.0
Secure Boot
Modern processors (Intel 8th generation or newer, AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer)
Beyond this date, Microsoft will no longer be providing security updates or technical support for Windows 10.
Microsoft will be offering Extended Security Update (ESU) program to provide critical security updates for up to three (3) additional years. The details on the cost associated with the ESU program are still be released. Keep in mind that the ESU license does not cover new features that might be seen in Windows 11.
What can you do?!
Consider alternative solutions like transitioning to a Linux operating system. In my earlier posts, I discuss how to become familiar with a few Linux operating systems through virtualization.
Businesses should be actively considering on implementing a computer lifecycle inventory management program. Look at my earlier posts on Best Practices for IT Lifecycle Management and transition to Ubuntu Linux.
Here are a few create short YouTube videos from Linus Media Group's Techquickie channel.
ExplainingComputers.com YouTube channel just posted "Windows 10: One Year to Go..."?today on Sunday, October 13th, 2024, This video provides deeper explanations of viable options.