Windows 10 Support Ending Soon - Here’s What You Need to Do

For nearly a decade, Windows 10 has been the reliable workhorse for our desktops, laptops, and offices - helping us write emails, manage businesses, and even keep up with the kids’ schoolwork.

But like all good things, its chapter is coming to a close.

As of 14th October, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. That means:

❌ No more security updates

❌ No more technical support

❌ No more feature upgrades

Don't worry, your PC won’t suddenly stop working, but without updates, it will become vulnerable, and there won’t be anyone from Microsoft to call if things go wrong. Think of it like driving a car that’s no longer being serviced - it might run for now, but a breakdown will be costly.

Even if your PC is running fine today, leaving it on Windows 10 comes with real risks:

• Security Risks: No updates means your system is exposed to hackers, ransomware, and phishing scams.

• Software Incompatibility: New programs may stop working, including antivirus software, payroll apps, and cloud tools.

• Compliance Issues: For regulated industries (healthcare, finance, legal), using unsupported software could create legal headaches.

• No Safety Net: If something goes wrong, Microsoft won’t help — and third-party fixes are often more expensive.

What Are Your Options

You’ve got choices — and you don’t have to figure this out alone. Here are some of the most common ones:

1️⃣ Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC can handle it)

Upgrading is often the easiest, most cost-effective solution. Windows 11 brings:

• Copilot AI integration (your digital helper)

• Snap Layouts for multitasking

• Stronger built-in security (TPM 2.0 + Smart App Control)

• Faster, modern, energy-efficient design

Check if your PC qualifies:

Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update

If eligible, the upgrade may even be free.

2️⃣ Buy a New PC with Windows 11 Preinstalled

If your machine is more than 5 years old, upgrading may not be possible or could slow things down. A new PC gives you:

• Faster performance and better battery life

• Reliable hardware and long-term support

• Peace of mind knowing your system is future-proof

3️⃣ Buy Time with Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Microsoft offers ESUs for businesses that need extra time:

• Provides critical security updates (not new features)

• Available for up to 3 years

• Costs ~£25–£30 per device per year

Important: This is a temporary fix, not a permanent solution.

What If I Just Do Nothing?

We get it - life’s busy, and if your PC is working fine right now, it’s tempting to leave things as they are.

Here’s the honest truth: doing nothing usually costs more in the long run.

Here’s what could happen if you stay on Windows 10 past 14th October, 2025:

1️⃣ Security Vulnerabilities

New viruses, ransomware, and phishing scams appear all the time. Without updates, your system is wide open to attacks.

2️⃣ Software & Hardware Issues

Developers will stop supporting Windows 10. You may see apps stop working, updates fail, or newer tools become incompatible.

3️⃣ Compliance Risks

If you handle sensitive data (financial, healthcare, legal), using unsupported software could put you at risk of breaking regulations.

4️⃣ No Safety Net

Microsoft won’t be there to help if something breaks. Relying on third-party fixes is usually slower, more expensive, and stressful.

5️⃣ Reputation Damage

For businesses, downtime or breaches can hurt client trust - and that’s much harder to recover from than simply upgrading on time.

Bottom line: Waiting until “something breaks” usually means more stress, higher costs, and fewer options.

Step-by-Step: Preparing for the Transition

Here’s a simple and super-handy roadmap to keep it simple and stress-free.

Step 1: Take Stock of Your Devices

The first thing to do is take stock of all your devices - whether it’s just one laptop at home or a whole office full of PCs.

• Brand & model

• Year purchased

• Running Windows 10?

• Essential for daily use?

Step 2: Check If They Can Run Windows 11

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool (free and easy to download) to see if your devices are eligible. PCs older than 4–5 years may not meet requirements and if not, which part of the system doesn't meet the requirements.

Step 3: Back Up Everything Important

Don’t risk losing files. Back up:

• Documents & spreadsheets

• Emails

• Photos & videos

• Business or client data

• Settings & bookmarks

Use OneDrive, an external drive, or your existing backup solution.

Step 4: Make a Transition Plan

If you manage a team, plan carefully:

• Which devices upgrade first?

• Who needs support?

• Will upgrades happen outside work hours?

• Budget for replacements?

Step 5: Upgrade or Replace Devices

Upgrade eligible PCs to Windows 11. Replace older devices or consider ESUs if you need extra time.

For devices that won’t upgrade, either replace them with Windows 11-ready hardware or use Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates — just remember, it’s a short-term solution.

Step 6: Offer Support After the Upgrade

Even small changes can feel big:

• Provide a quick guide to new features

• Offer basic training or video tutorials

• Reassure your team - most people adjust quickly

Still Unsure?

That’s completely normal. Changes like this affect both technology and people.

• Individuals: Start small - run the PC Health Check, back up files, and explore Windows 11.

• Businesses: Speak to your IT provider or Delta 365. We’ll guide you through the process, save time, reduce stress, and avoid expensive surprises.

Windows 10 may be ending, but it’s the start of something better. This isn’t about upgrading for the sake of it. It’s about:

• A faster, safer system

• A foundation with modern security

• A smoother experience for your team or household

• Support that doesn’t leave you in the dark

Delta 365 is here to make the transition smooth, smart, and stress-free.