End of Windows 10 support – What you need to know and how to prepare

Microsoft has officially announced a key piece of information for millions of users: Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025.

This date marks an important turning point in the history of one of the world’s most widely used operating systems, with over a billion devices affected.

Whether you’re an individual or a company, this deadline raises a number of questions: what does the end of support actually mean? What options are available? How can you prepare for it?

This article gives you a step-by-step guide to understanding the issues and planning your transition with peace of mind.

Understanding the end of Windows 10 support

What is the “end of support”?

The end of support for an operating system means that Microsoft will cease to supply :

• Security updates
• Bug fixes
• Technical assistance
• Functional improvements

This decision is in line with the normal lifecycle of Microsoft products. Each operating system benefits from a 10-year support period, and since Windows 10 was launched in July 2015, it will therefore reach its scheduled end-of-life in October 2025.

What are the practical consequences?

Continuing to use Windows 10 after this date will entail several risks:

• Compromised security: Without regular updates, your system will gradually become vulnerable to new threats.
• Software incompatibility: developers will gradually stop adapting their applications for Windows 10.
• Performance problems: Uncorrected bugs may affect system stability.
• Technological obsolescence: You won’t benefit from new features and enhancements.

It’s important to note that your computer will continue to function, but will be increasingly exposed to security risks and compatibility problems.

User options

Faced with this deadline, you have four main options:

Option 1: Migrate to Windows 11

The most obvious solution is to upgrade to Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. This option offers several advantages:

• Continuity of support and security updates
• Modernized, more intuitive interface
• New features (better integration of Android applications, redesigned widgets, etc.)
• Optimized performance, especially for games

However, this migration is not possible for all computers due to more stringent hardware requirements (more on this later).

Option 2: Buy a new computer

If your PC is more than five years old, it may be time to consider renewing it. There are many advantages:

• More efficient, energy-saving equipment
• Windows 11 compatibility assured
• Enhanced user experience
• Warranty on new equipment

Don’t forget the environmental aspect: recycle your old equipment through the appropriate channels, or consider reconditioning it if it’s still in good condition.

Option 3: Pay for extended support (ESU)

As with Windows 7, Microsoft will probably offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program:

• Solution designed primarily for businesses
• Gradual cost increase each year
• Protection limited to critical security vulnerabilities
• Temporary solution (generally 3 years maximum)

Pricing has not yet been officially announced, but based on experience with Windows 7, we can expect a significant cost, especially for the third year.

These options can give a second life to a computer not compatible with Windows 11, with the advantage of generally being free.

How to check if your PC is compatible with Windows 11

Microsoft has significantly raised the hardware requirements for Windows 11. Here are the main ones:

• 64-bit compatible processor (Intel 8th generation or higher / AMD Ryzen 2000 or higher)
• 4 GB RAM minimum (8 GB recommended)
• 64 GB minimum storage space
• DirectX 12-compatible graphics card
• HD (720p) screen over 9 inches wide
• TPM 2.0 (security module often absent from older PCs)
• UEFI with secure boot

To check your machine’s compatibility, Microsoft offers the PC Health Check application, downloadable from its official website. This tool will analyze your configuration and tell you exactly whether your computer is ready for Windows 11.

Preparing for migration: a step-by-step guide

Whatever option you choose, careful preparation is essential:

1. Take stock of your data

• Identify all your important files (documents, photos, videos)
• Check the space they occupy
• Provide a suitable backup medium (external hard drive, cloud)

2. Identify your software

• List all the programs you use regularly
• Check their compatibility with your future solution
• Keep all necessary activation keys and identifiers

3. Backup planning

• Perform a full system backup
• Use Windows’ built-in backup tool or a third-party solution
• Check that your backup is working by restoring a few test files.

4. Choosing the right moment

• Plan for a period of low activity
• Allow at least one day for complete migration
• Anticipate a period of adaptation to your new system

5. Proceed with migration

For Windows 11 :

• Download the official installation tool
• Follow the on-screen instructions
• Keep your old system for a few weeks if possible

For alternatives :

• Create a bootable USB key with the chosen system
• Test it live before installation
• Follow the official documentation for your chosen system

Key points for companies

Organizations face specific challenges:

• Often heterogeneous IT installed base: need for a complete audit to identify compatible machines
• Business-critical applications: checking compatibility with Windows 11 beforehand
• User training: allow for adaptation time and possibly training sessions
• Significant costs: budget for fleet renewal and/or ESU licenses
• Rigorous planning: establish a precise, phased migration schedule

For VSEs/SMEs, it’s advisable to start planning now, consulting an IT service provider if necessary.

Conclusion

The end of Windows 10 support represents a challenge, but also an opportunity to modernize your IT environment. By anticipating this transition, you can :

• Minimizing safety risks
• Avoiding emergency situations
• Optimize your costs
• Take advantage of new technologies

The October 2025 deadline may seem a long way off, but given the physical constraints and the need for careful planning, it’ s a good idea to start preparing today.

Key dates to remember

This article will be updated as new information is released by Microsoft regarding the end of support for Windows 10.

Do you have any questions about Windows 10 end of support or need help? Don’t hesitate to contact us.