Microsoft announced the release of Windows 11, and alongside it, the end of support date for Windows 10. Effective October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will stop receiving updates and no longer be supported by Microsoft. Approximately 60% of users are still running Windows 10 on their devices. For those who are in the 60%, is the switch to Windows 11 necessary?
Windows 10 Lifespan
Simply put, Windows 10 will run indefinitely, as long as your device supports it. There is no reason to panic about not being able to use your desktop come October. However, using Windows 10 forever is not the best idea.
End of Support
Currently, on the second Tuesday of every month, Microsoft releases what is called a “quality update,” containing security patches and bug fixes. These updates are essential to the upkeep and functionality of the software. The monthly update is what keeps your device secure and running smoothly.
End-of-support to Microsoft 10 means your devices running on the software will no longer receive these updates.
If there were a bug discovered after the end of support date, Microsoft would not be fixing it, impacting your PC’s performance.
There is no telling when a bug that compromises your security comes up. Without constant security patches, if cybercriminals discover vulnerabilities, there won’t be a way to stop them from executing their attack.
Drawbacks
The ability to use Windows 10 is a major concern for many users, and the fact that it could technically run indefinitely seems like the perfect outcome. However, there are drawbacks to consider when choosing not to update to Windows 11.
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Security
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Many users might feel the cybersecurity measures they have in place will be enough to protect them from any cyber threats that might arise from vulnerabilities in the software. However, preventative measures are not foolproof, leaving users vulnerable regardless of any antivirus software or firewalls they have installed.
Cybercriminals know many people will be using Windows 10 unprotected. As a result, they will target these vulnerabilities.
There are many ways to encounter malware, including emails, websites, and computer programs. These attacks are not easy to spot most of the time, so users are more exposed than they might think. Once the attacker has their way into your PC, your device and your whole network are compromised.
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Functionality
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The chances of a bug that renders devices useless are unlikely, but much software will stop releasing updates for or being compatible with Windows 10, meaning you won’t be able to use programs necessary for work.
For example, Office 365 will no longer receive updates or be fully compatible with Windows 10 after the end-of-support date. The applications will not become obsolete overnight, but they will not have new features or regular updates, which might cause functionality issues over time.
Other software and applications will gradually follow suit as developers shift focus to newer operating systems and hardware. Without Windows 11, users will eventually stop getting the newest features for web browsers, enterprise applications, creative software, and security software.
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Lack of Support
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Another concern is that Microsoft will not extend technical support to Windows 10 users.
If there is ever a problem with a PC, it would now be entirely up to the user to fix the issue and go through troubleshooting, configuration, installation, etc., all on their own.
Without access to Microsoft's technical support, any system failures or critical issues may lead to significant downtime and could disrupt business operations.
Eligibility for Windows 11
The following are the minimum hardware requirements necessary to upgrade your PC to Windows 11.
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Processor
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- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
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RAM
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- 4 gigabytes (GB)
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Storage
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- 64 GB or larger storage device
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System Firmware
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- UEFI, Secure Boot capable
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TPM
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- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
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Graphics card
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- Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver.
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Display
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- High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel.
Devices that are currently using Windows 10 22H2 and meet these requirements are eligible to upgrade to Windows 11 for free.
Options
The simplest solution is to upgrade to Windows 11. The option to upgrade for free for eligible users makes the transition as easy as possible.
However, for those who are adamant about sticking to Windows 10, Microsoft released an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that can be purchased annually for the next three years.
Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program
The ESU program is a temporary solution from Microsoft that allows users to continue using Windows 10 and receive critical security updates. This eliminates a major concern.
However, that is all the ESU program provides. Bug fixes, new features, and technical support from Microsoft will still not be extended to Windows 10 users. This program strictly includes updates related to necessary security patches, meaning these updates will not enhance your PC or its performance in any way.
ESU Price Breakdown
ESU license will be sold on annual periods, with the final release set to expire October 10, 2028. This is only a temporary solution from Microsoft meant to give users time to switch over to Windows 11 if their PC’s hardware does not support it.
This program will be priced at $60 for year one, the price doubling every consecutive year. The price is cumulative, meaning if you join in Year Two or Three, you’ll need to pay for both the current and previous years.
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For users who purchase starting Year One:
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Year One
- $60
Year Two
- $60 (Year One) x 2 = $120
Year Three
- $120 (Year Two) x 2 = $240
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Users who purchase starting Year Two:
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Year Two
- $60 (Year One) + $120 (Year Two) = $180
Year Three
- $120 (Year Two) x 2 = $240
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Users who purchase Year Three:
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Year Three
- $60 (Year One) + $120 (Year Two) + $240 (Year Three) = $420
This program is available for a maximum of three years, so there won’t be any more extensions after October 2028. This is a viable option for those who don’t want to make the switch this year, but most definitely is not an alternative to upgrading to Windows 11.
Is Switching Necessary?
There is no need to switch immediately, especially with the purchase of an ESU license, but switching to Windows 11 or a different operating system is necessary. The ESU program is a great way to buy time to purchase hardware that supports Windows 11 or switch to a different OS.
It is unsafe to continue using Windows 10 and will not work long term as programs and applications stop being compatible with the OS.
Switching sooner rather than later will enhance your business’ security, performance, and help avoid unnecessary future costs.
today and allow us to facilitate the transition for your business.
