Windows 10 End of Support: What does this mean for you and your organisation?

Since its release in July 2015, Windows 10 has become the most used Windows operating system around the world. However, with the release of the newer and more secure Windows 11, Microsoft have announced that Windows 10 will reach end of support on October 14th, 2025. 

While it may seem like a date in the distant future now, for most organisations it’s only two budgets away! It will pay to get your plan in place now, for less stress later down the line.  

Let’s take a look at what the end of support for Windows 10 means for you. And what options you have available. 

 

What does Windows 10 going 'end of support' mean?

Put simply, this is the date when Microsoft will no longer provide support, security updates, or fix any bugs on any Windows 10 device. 

Will our Windows 10 devices stop working?

No, devices that run Windows 10 will not stop working. The software continues to be functional. However, it is advised to keep your software up to date due to the security and support functions.  

For some, this may mean you have to upgrade devices to be able to use Windows 11. Especially if devices are now getting quite old. There are a number of minimum system requirements for Windows 11 which your devices must meet to run the new operating system. 

 

Why move to Windows 11?

While generally not recommended, you could carry on running Windows 10 across your device estate if you really wanted to. It is worth noting if you are going to do this, it leaves your PCs vulnerable to security risks. Plus, moving to Windows 11 comes with it a number of impressive benefits. Including: 

• Strengthened security features making it the most secure Windows yet 
• Generative AI built in as standard  
• Improved overall performance and quicker start up times 
• Brand new look and feel fit for the modern era of work 
• Improved accessibility features across the operating system 

If you have made a decision to move to Windows 11, there are a number of things you can do to ensure a smooth transition.

 

What does Windows 10 end of support mean for your business or organisation?

With Windows 10 going end of support in 2025, there are a few things you might want to consider to ensure your organisation can continue operating undisrupted.

1. Gain an understanding of what devices your people actually need

As ways of working continue to evolve, it is important that you don’t adopt a ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to choosing devices. With many different personas across one organisation, each have unique wants and needs from the devices they use at work.  

Use this as an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding into ways of working, and determine the devices your people really need in order to thrive at work.

 

2. Use the transition as a learning opportunity 

It is a wasted opportunity to gain new technology and capabilities, just to continue working in the way ways you always have. So, the transition from Windows 10 to 11 can be used as the perfect opportunity to provide learning experiences for your teams. And boost digital skills across the organisation.

If people don't know how to use something, they won’t. Learning new skills, including new applications or systems, can positively impact productivity and efficiency as people become more and more familiar.  

 

3. Get your organisation ready for the change

While there is a lot of familiarity between Windows 10 and Windows 11, ensuring your organisation is ready for the change is crucial to the success of the rollout. Keeping communication clear, maintaining confidence in working with technology, and continuing productive working.  

Bring your people along on the journey from the start. You could do this through: 

• Engaging change communications 
• Informative learning sessions and resources 
• Providing support throughout the transition  

Getting everyone ready for the change ensures a smooth transition, allowing your organisation to continue operating without disruption. 

 

4. Consider upgrading your device estate

For an estate of older devices, you may have no choice but to upgrade before you move to Windows 11 due to the compatibility requirements. Making it the perfect time to take a look at your estate and determine if your devices are still fit for purpose.  

With technology moving so quickly, laptops and tablets can become outdated much faster than ever before. An organisation-wide device upgrade not only opens the doors for Windows 11, but can also boost productivity, improve staff retention, and keep your organisation innovative at the forefront of the latest technology.

 

How to move our organisation Windows 11

When moving to Windows 11, it's important that you don’t neglect the people side of the project. Without bringing your people along, you risk poor return on investment and a lack of user adoption. 

At Hable, we can work with you to make sure your organisation not only gets the most from your migration to Windows 11, but that every person is using the device they need to thrive at work.