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Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025

Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025

After the 14th October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for Windows 10.  Your PC will still work however when Windows 10 reaches End Of Life (EOL), you have several options to consider ensuring you maintain security and functionality on your PC. Here are some of the main ones.  AbbeyICT or your IT Services provider can advise.

  • Upgrade to Windows 11

First, check if your hardware meets the system requirements for Windows 11.  Microsoft have provided a link which will test this automatically or check against the table, below.  If preferred ask your IT Services company to do this check for you.

https://­www.­microsoft.­com/­en-gb/­windows­/windows-11#­pchealthcheck

If compatible, you can upgrade directly from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Microsoft often provides upgrade paths through Windows Update.

Windows 11 offers new features and a refreshed interface, which may enhance your computing experience.  Microsoft have created a feature comparison highlighting the differences between the Windows 10 and 11, link below.

Compare Windows 11 Versions: Windows 11 Home & Pro vs. Windows 10 | Microsoft

  • Switch to an Alternative Operating SystemA more radical approach however, these are options.  Some include Linus, macOS, Chrome OS etc.  These again may require new hardware to fully support the features.  AbbeyICT would recommend Microsoft.
  • Extended Security Updates (ESU)Microsoft may offer ESUs for a fee, particularly for enterprise users. This can provide additional time to transition away from Windows 10.  AbbeyICT can advise you is in doubt and if eligible the associated costs.
  • Continue Using Windows 10 (we suggest with Caution)While not recommended due to security risks, you can continue to use Windows 10 without updates. This option is risky as it leaves your system vulnerable to security threats.
  • Security MeasuresEnhance your security by using third-party antivirus software, regularly backing up data, and avoiding risky behaviours e.g. downloading unknown files, visiting untrusted websites etc.
  • VirtualisationYou can run Windows 10 in a virtual machine on another host operating system. This can help mitigate some security risks if the host OS is secure and regularly updated.  This option is useful if you need to run specific applications that only work on Windows 10.
  • Cloud-based SolutionsServices like Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop, Amazon Work Spaces or other solutions allow you to use a virtual Windows environment, which can be updated and managed centrally.  Many applications now have robust web-based versions, reducing dependency on the local OS.  AbbeyICT can offer advice if this is an area of interest.

Other Considerations

Backup Data: Before making any major changes, ensure all important data is backed up

Compatibility: Verify that critical applications and peripherals are compatible with the new OS you plan to use.

Training and Adaptation: Allow time to adapt to the new system, especially if switching to a significantly different OS like Linux or macOS.

Suggested Minimum System Requirements for a Windows 11 PC

System Items

Min Requirements

Processor

1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)

RAM

4 GB

Storage

64 GB

System Firmware

UEFI, Secure Boot capable

TPM

Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0

Graphics Card

DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x

Display

9” with HD Resolution (720p)

Internet Connection

Internet connectivity  to perform updates and download and take advantage of some features

Additional Requirements

Cortana: Requires a microphone and speaker.

DirectStorage: Requires an NVMe SSD to store and run games that use the Standard NVM Express Controller driver and a DirectX 12 GPU with Shader Model 6.0 support.

DirectX 12 Ultimate: Available with supported games and graphics chips.

Presence: Requires a sensor that can detect human distance from the device or intent to interact with the device.

Intelligent Video Conferencing: Requires video camera, microphone, and speaker (audio output).

Multiple Voice Assistant (MVA): Requires a microphone and speaker.

Snap: Requires a screen that is 1920 effective pixels or greater in width.

Mute/Unmute from Taskbar: Requires video camera, microphone, and speaker (audio output). App must support feature to enable global mute/unmute.

Spatial Sound: Requires supporting hardware and software.

Teams: Requires a video camera, microphone, and speaker (audio output).

Touch: Requires a screen or monitor that supports multi-touch.

Two-factor Authentication: Requires the use of a PIN, biometric (fingerprint reader or illuminated infrared camera), or a phone with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.

Voice Typing: Requires a PC with a microphone.

Wake on Voice: Requires Modern Standby power model and microphone.

Wi-Fi 6E: Requires new WLAN IHV hardware and driver and a Wi-Fi 6E capable AP/router.

Windows Hello: Requires a camera configured for near-infrared (IR) imaging or fingerprint reader for biometric authentication.

Windows Projection: Requires a display adapter that supports Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) 2.0 and a Wi-Fi adapter that supports Wi-Fi Direct.

Contact AbbeyICT for information covering other items not listed, e.g. Copilot

Posted and tagged Windows, Windows 10, EOL, End of Life, Windows 11, Upgrade, October 2025, 2025, October on