Windows 10 Support Has Ended. What Should Your Business Do Now?

Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. That does not mean Windows 10 computers suddenly stopped working, but it does mean they no longer receive regular security updates from Microsoft unless they are enrolled in an Extended Security Updates program.

For home users and businesses, this is a good time to take inventory of older computers and decide what should be upgraded, replaced, or retired.

Why this matters

A computer that no longer receives regular security updates becomes a bigger risk over time. The machine may still turn on and run familiar software, but new security issues will not be patched the same way they were before.

That matters for:

• business email
• accounting systems
• customer files
• shared documents
• saved passwords
• remote access
• line-of-business applications

If a Windows 10 computer is used only for a limited task, there may be a short-term plan that makes sense. If it handles important business data, it should be reviewed.

Your main options

Most businesses have three practical choices.

1. Upgrade the computer to Windows 11

Some Windows 10 computers can be upgraded to Windows 11. This is usually the simplest option if the hardware is compatible and the computer still performs well.

Before upgrading, check:

• processor compatibility
• memory
• storage type and available space
• software compatibility
• printer and scanner compatibility
• backup status

Do not start the upgrade without a backup.

2. Replace older hardware

If the computer is slow, unreliable, or not Windows 11 compatible, replacement may be the better choice. This is especially true for older hard-drive-based systems, machines with limited memory, or computers used for business-critical work.

A replacement can also be a good opportunity to review:

• data transfer
• Microsoft 365 setup
• email configuration
• printer setup
• backup plan
• security software
• user permissions

3. Use Extended Security Updates temporarily

Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for eligible Windows 10 devices. This can buy time, but it should not be treated as a permanent plan. Extended updates are mainly for critical and important security fixes. They do not make an old computer new, and they do not solve hardware or software compatibility problems.

For many businesses, Extended Security Updates are best used as a bridge while planning replacements or upgrades.

What we recommend

Start with a simple review.

Make a list of every Windows 10 computer in your business and note:

• who uses it
• what software it runs
• whether it contains important data
• whether it can run Windows 11
• whether it is slow or unreliable
• whether it is backed up

From there, decide which systems should be upgraded, replaced, or temporarily covered while you plan the next step.

Need help checking your computers?

Fox Business Systems helps customers in Manhattan, Junction City, Fort Riley, Wamego, and surrounding Kansas communities with computer upgrades, replacements, repairs, data transfer, backups, and business IT support.

If you are not sure whether your Windows 10 computers should be upgraded or replaced, we can help you review your options.

Call 785-776-1452 or visit Fox Business Systems at 531 Fort Riley Blvd in Manhattan, KS.