Windows 10 End of Support - What you need to know.

If you’re still happily clicking away on Windows 10, it might be time to have “the talk.” Microsoft recently issued a warning that support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. For businesses and home users alike, this is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a reminder that sticking with outdated software can come with significant risks.

Why You Should Pay Attention

Windows 10 has been a trusty companion for years. But without ongoing updates, it’s like leaving your front door unlocked in a neighbourhood known for tech-savvy burglars. Here’s what you need to know:

• Security Risks: Once Microsoft stops issuing security updates, your system becomes vulnerable to viruses, malware, and hackers. Think of it as leaving your Halloween treats on the counter with a note that says “free for anyone.”

• Software Incompatibility: New applications and even some websites may not run properly on Windows 10, leaving you stuck in the digital Stone Age.

• No More Support: If something breaks, Microsoft’s tech support won’t be able to help — leaving you to fend for yourself, or to call in the pros (hint: that’s us at RW Networks).

Next Steps for Windows 10 Users

Luckily, you don’t have to panic… yet. Here’s a quick roadmap for both home and business users:

• Purchase the Windows 10 Consumer Extended Security Update: The Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers customers the option to receive security updates for PCs enrolled in the program. ESU is a paid program that provides individuals and organizations of all sizes with the option to extend the use of Windows 10 devices past the end of support date in a more secure manner. This is a paid subscription purchased through the Microsoft Volume Licensing program.

  
  

• Upgrade to Windows 11: Microsoft’s latest OS comes with improved security, faster performance, and a few neat tricks like Snap Layouts for multitasking. Upgrading now is easier than waiting until you’re forced to.

• Check Your Hardware: Not all older PCs can handle Windows 11. If your machine is approaching retirement age, it might be time to consider a new computer instead of forcing an upgrade. The minimum specifications for Windows 11 are 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, but computers also need a Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM 2.0), which stores credentials in a secure chip, similar to all modern smartphones. If this sounds like a foreign language to you, don’t worry, we are happy to translate, or try your hand with the Microsoft free check tool.

  
  

• Backup, Backup, Backup: Before any big update or hardware switch, make sure your important files are safely backed up. You never know when a hiccup could turn your laptop into an expensive paperweight.

• Ask the Experts: Upgrades can be confusing. At RW Networks, we help our clients migrate safely from Windows 10 to 11, ensuring data integrity and minimal downtime.

Bottom Line

Windows 10 served us well, but all good things must come to an end, and staying behind the curve could cost you more than just frustration. By planning and taking action now, you can keep your PC secure, compatible, and stress-free.