Prepare for Windows 10 End of Support: What You Need to Know Before October 2025

Time is ticking! October 14, 2025, marks a crucial deadline for businesses and individuals still using Windows 10. After this date, Microsoft will end its support for the operating system, meaning no more updates, security patches, or technical assistance. If your organization hasn’t already started planning for this transition, now is the time to act. Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just recommended—it’s necessary for staying secure and efficient in a modern business environment.

This blog will guide you through the key aspects of preparing for the Windows 10 end-of-support and what to consider for a smooth transition to Windows 11.

Why is Windows 10 End-of-Support Important?
When an operating system reaches its end-of-support, it stops receiving critical security updates and patches. Without these, systems become vulnerable to security threats, including viruses, malware, and hacking attempts. This is particularly concerning for organizations that handle sensitive data or are required to comply with cybersecurity regulations. Additionally, outdated software can lead to performance degradation and compatibility issues, hindering productivity and affecting daily operations.

In short, continuing to use Windows 10 beyond October 14, 2025, can pose a significant security risk and potentially lead to compliance challenges. A proactive approach is needed to avoid disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to a supported platform.

What Does It Mean to Upgrade to Windows 11?
Windows 11 isn’t just an incremental update from Windows 10—it represents a significant leap in both security and performance. One of the standout requirements for Windows 11 is the need for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, which adds an additional layer of hardware-based security.

TPM 2.0 is designed to improve the security of your machine by providing cryptographic keys at a hardware level, ensuring that sensitive data is better protected from malicious attacks. However, many older systems either lack a TPM module entirely or only support TPM 1.2, which is not compatible with Windows 11.

Hardware Considerations for Windows 11
For organizations with older computers, the requirement for TPM 2.0 may mean that some machines will need to be replaced. Even if a computer has the right TPM module, other hardware specifications might not be up to par. For a smooth Windows 11 experience, Microsoft recommends:

Minimum 16GB RAM: While Windows 11 can technically run on 8GB, 16GB provides a much smoother experience, especially when running multiple applications simultaneously.
Minimum 512GB SSD: Solid State Drives (SSDs) are significantly faster than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and will ensure that your system performs optimally.
These specifications may exceed what many existing systems are capable of, making it crucial to evaluate your current hardware and determine which machines need upgrades.

Steps to Prepare for Windows 11
To prepare for the transition, start by performing a comprehensive assessment of your current hardware and software. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help streamline your upgrade process:

• Conduct a System Audit:
  Inventory all devices currently using Windows 10. Check each machine’s compatibility with Windows 11, focusing on the TPM version, CPU, RAM, and storage.
• Identify Non-Compliant Devices:
  Highlight any systems that don’t meet the Windows 11 requirements. Make a decision to either upgrade their hardware (if feasible) or replace them entirely.
• Evaluate Software Compatibility:
  Ensure that your key applications and software are compatible with Windows 11. If any software requires updates or replacements, plan to address this during your upgrade.
• Create an Upgrade Plan:
  Develop a structured upgrade timeline to minimize downtime and disruption. Prioritize high-importance machines and mission-critical systems.
• Communicate with Your Team:
  Educate employees about the upcoming changes and why the transition is necessary. Provide training on any new features of Windows 11 that may affect their day-to-day tasks.
• Partner with a Trusted IT Provider:
  If the process seems overwhelming, consider working with an experienced IT partner who can help manage the entire upgrade process. An IT provider can handle everything from compatibility checks to hardware upgrades, ensuring a smooth transition.

Why Upgrade Now Instead of Later?
You might be wondering, “Why not wait until closer to the deadline?” There are several reasons why acting sooner rather than later is beneficial: