Windows 10 End Of Life - FAQs
- General Information
- Impact on Businesses
- Upgrade & Migration
-
Security & Compliance
- Support & Services
- Costs & Budgeting
After 14 October 2025 Windows 10 won't receive security patches, leaving systems vulnerable to cyber threats.
Outdated software may stop working with business apps and could lead to regulatory non-compliance.
Move to Windows 11 or cloud solutions for a secure, modern experience. Onecom can help.
Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach End of Life on 14th October 2025. After this date, it will no longer receive security updates or support. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions about what this means for businesses and how Onecom can help with a smooth transition.
What does "End of Life" mean for Windows 10?
"End of Life" means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for Windows 10 after 14th October 2025. While the operating system will still function, it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues.
Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?
Microsoft follows a fixed lifecycle policy, meaning that each Windows version has a set period of support. Windows 10 was launched in 2015, and Microsoft is shifting its focus to Windows 11 and future innovations.
What will happen to our PCs after Windows 10 support ends?
After 14th October 2025, PCs running Windows 10 will still operate, but Microsoft will no longer provide:
Technical support
Feature updates
Security updates or fixes
While your PC will remain functional, it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats, viruses, and malware. To ensure security and performance, we recommend upgrading to a supported version of Windows. If your current device does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, consider upgrading to a new PC for a seamless transition and an improved experience.
What are the risks of continuing to use Windows 10 after End of Life?
After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, leaving your business at risk of cyberattacks, malware, and data breaches. Additionally, software vendors may stop supporting Windows 10, leading to compatibility issues with business applications.
Will my business still be able to use Windows 10 after support ends?
Yes, Windows 10 will continue to function, but without security updates, it will not be safe for business use. Compliance requirements, such as GDPR and Cyber Essentials, may also be affected.
What happens if I don’t upgrade from Windows 10?
If you continue using Windows 10 past its End of Life, you risk:
• Security vulnerabilities due to lack of updates
• Non-compliance with industry regulations
• Compatibility issues with newer software
• Lack of manufacturer support for new hardware
Will my software and applications still work on Windows 10?
Some software may continue to work, but vendors may stop supporting Windows 10, meaning you won’t receive updates, security patches, or bug fixes. This could lead to software failures and security risks over time.
What are my options for upgrading from Windows 10?
Your main options are:
• Upgrading to Windows 11 (if your hardware is compatible)
• Purchasing new devices that support Windows 11
• Exploring cloud-based solutions, such as Windows 365 or Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop
How can Onecom help businesses transition to Windows 11 or alternative solutions?
Onecom offers:
• IT consultation to assess your current setup
• Windows 11 migration planning
• Hardware upgrades and procurement
• Cloud-based alternatives, such as Windows 365
• Ongoing IT support and security services
Will my current hardware support Windows 11?
Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements, including:
• TPM 2.0 security chip
• 8th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 2000 series processor or newer
• 4GB RAM (recommended 8GB or more)
• 64GB storage minimum
Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to determine if your devices meet the requirements.
What should I consider before upgrading to Windows 11?
• Compatibility with business software
• Hardware requirements
• Training for employees on Windows 11’s new interface
• Potential cloud migration options
Can I purchase extended security updates (ESU) for Windows 10?
Yes, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for businesses that need more time to upgrade. However, ESUs are a paid service and only provide security updates, not new features or bug fixes.
How does Windows 10 End of Life affect cybersecurity?
Without security updates, cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities, putting your business at risk of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and compliance failures.
Will my business still be compliant with industry regulations if we continue using Windows 10?
Many industries require up-to-date and secure software to meet compliance standards such as GDPR, ISO 27001, and Cyber Essentials. Running an unsupported OS could lead to compliance violations and potential fines.
What steps should I take to secure my business before Windows 10 support ends?
• Plan an upgrade strategy with Onecom
• Identify critical business applications and ensure compatibility with Windows 11
• Consider cloud-based solutions for increased security
• Implement cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls and endpoint protection
Will Onecom provide support for businesses still using Windows 10?
Yes, Onecom can assist businesses with security measures, extended support, and migration planning. However, we strongly recommend upgrading to a supported operating system as soon as possible.
How can Onecom assist with upgrading to Windows 11 or other solutions?
We offer:
• Consultation and migration planning
• Hardware and software procurement
• IT support and managed services
• Cloud-based alternatives to traditional desktops
Can Onecom help with cloud migration as part of the transition?
Absolutely! Onecom provides Microsoft Azure, Windows 365, and other cloud-based solutions to help businesses transition to a more flexible and secure IT environment.
What are the benefits of upgrading through Onecom rather than handling it in-house?
With Onecom, you get:
• Expert guidance on the best upgrade path
• Seamless migration with minimal disruption
• End-to-end support, including cybersecurity solutions
• Ongoing IT management and cloud services
How much will it cost to upgrade to Windows 11?
Costs vary depending on:
• Hardware upgrades required
• Licensing fees for Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise
• IT support and migration services
Onecom offers tailored cost-effective solutions to suit your business needs.
What does "End of Life" mean for Windows 10?
"End of Life" means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for Windows 10 after 14th October 2025. While the operating system will still function, it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues.
Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?
Microsoft follows a fixed lifecycle policy, meaning that each Windows version has a set period of support. Windows 10 was launched in 2015, and Microsoft is shifting its focus to Windows 11 and future innovations.
What will happen to our PCs after Windows 10 support ends?
After 14th October 2025, PCs running Windows 10 will still operate, but Microsoft will no longer provide:
Technical support
Feature updates
Security updates or fixes
While your PC will remain functional, it will become increasingly vulnerable to security threats, viruses, and malware. To ensure security and performance, we recommend upgrading to a supported version of Windows. If your current device does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, consider upgrading to a new PC for a seamless transition and an improved experience.
What are the risks of continuing to use Windows 10 after End of Life?
After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, leaving your business at risk of cyberattacks, malware, and data breaches. Additionally, software vendors may stop supporting Windows 10, leading to compatibility issues with business applications.
Will my business still be able to use Windows 10 after support ends?
Yes, Windows 10 will continue to function, but without security updates, it will not be safe for business use. Compliance requirements, such as GDPR and Cyber Essentials, may also be affected.
What happens if I don’t upgrade from Windows 10?
If you continue using Windows 10 past its End of Life, you risk:
• Security vulnerabilities due to lack of updates
• Non-compliance with industry regulations
• Compatibility issues with newer software
• Lack of manufacturer support for new hardware
Will my software and applications still work on Windows 10?
Some software may continue to work, but vendors may stop supporting Windows 10, meaning you won’t receive updates, security patches, or bug fixes. This could lead to software failures and security risks over time.
What are my options for upgrading from Windows 10?
Your main options are:
• Upgrading to Windows 11 (if your hardware is compatible)
• Purchasing new devices that support Windows 11
• Exploring cloud-based solutions, such as Windows 365 or Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop
How can Onecom help businesses transition to Windows 11 or alternative solutions?
Onecom offers:
• IT consultation to assess your current setup
• Windows 11 migration planning
• Hardware upgrades and procurement
• Cloud-based alternatives, such as Windows 365
• Ongoing IT support and security services
Will my current hardware support Windows 11?
Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements, including:
• TPM 2.0 security chip
• 8th Gen Intel Core or AMD Ryzen 2000 series processor or newer
• 4GB RAM (recommended 8GB or more)
• 64GB storage minimum
Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to determine if your devices meet the requirements.
What should I consider before upgrading to Windows 11?
• Compatibility with business software
• Hardware requirements
• Training for employees on Windows 11’s new interface
• Potential cloud migration options
Can I purchase extended security updates (ESU) for Windows 10?
Yes, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for businesses that need more time to upgrade. However, ESUs are a paid service and only provide security updates, not new features or bug fixes.
How does Windows 10 End of Life affect cybersecurity?
Without security updates, cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities, putting your business at risk of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and compliance failures.
Will my business still be compliant with industry regulations if we continue using Windows 10?
Many industries require up-to-date and secure software to meet compliance standards such as GDPR, ISO 27001, and Cyber Essentials. Running an unsupported OS could lead to compliance violations and potential fines.
What steps should I take to secure my business before Windows 10 support ends?
• Plan an upgrade strategy with Onecom
• Identify critical business applications and ensure compatibility with Windows 11
• Consider cloud-based solutions for increased security
• Implement cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls and endpoint protection
Will Onecom provide support for businesses still using Windows 10?
Yes, Onecom can assist businesses with security measures, extended support, and migration planning. However, we strongly recommend upgrading to a supported operating system as soon as possible.
How can Onecom assist with upgrading to Windows 11 or other solutions?
We offer:
• Consultation and migration planning
• Hardware and software procurement
• IT support and managed services
• Cloud-based alternatives to traditional desktops
Can Onecom help with cloud migration as part of the transition?
Absolutely! Onecom provides Microsoft Azure, Windows 365, and other cloud-based solutions to help businesses transition to a more flexible and secure IT environment.
What are the benefits of upgrading through Onecom rather than handling it in-house?
With Onecom, you get:
• Expert guidance on the best upgrade path
• Seamless migration with minimal disruption
• End-to-end support, including cybersecurity solutions
• Ongoing IT management and cloud services
How much will it cost to upgrade to Windows 11?
Costs vary depending on:
• Hardware upgrades required
• Licensing fees for Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise
• IT support and migration services
Onecom offers tailored cost-effective solutions to suit your business needs.
Upgrading to Windows 11 with Onecom ensures your business stays secure, efficient, and future-ready.
Through flexible financing, managed IT services, and tailored upgrade plans, Onecom makes transitioning to Windows 11 affordable and scalable, ensuring businesses get the best return on investment.
Here’s why Onecom is the ideal partner for a smooth transition:
Windows 11 provides built-in security features like Zero Trust security, TPM 2.0, and advanced threat protection, ensuring your business remains safe from cyber threats. Onecom helps you meet GDPR, Cyber Essentials, and ISO 27001 compliance standards.
With faster boot times, efficient multitasking, and an intuitive interface, Windows 11 enhances workforce productivity. Onecom ensures a seamless deployment, so your team experiences minimal downtime.
Windows 11 is designed for the modern workplace, with built-in Microsoft 365, OneDrive, and cloud-based management tools. Onecom helps businesses adopt cloud solutions like Windows 365 and Azure, enabling secure remote work and collaboration.
Onecom offers end-to-end migration services, from device assessment and software compatibility checks to installation and user training. Our dedicated IT support team ensures a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
As the UK’s leading business telephony and cloud communications provider, Onecom can help your business transition from Windows 10 smoothly and securely.