Windows 10 has been a dominant and widely trusted operating system, and many users and organizations have stuck with it due to stability, compatibility, and familiarity. But even robust platforms have limits—and now it's time to prepare for Windows 10’s sunset.
Support Status for Windows 10
End of support date: October 14, 2025 Microsoft Learn+3Microsoft Support+3Microsoft Learn+3
After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide feature updates, nonsecurity bug fixes, or regular security patches for most editions of Windows 10. Microsoft Support+1
The final version of Windows 10 (Home, Pro, Enterprise, Education) is version 22H2. Microsoft Learn+3Microsoft Learn+3Microsoft Learn+3
Exceptions & extended support:
Some Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) or IoT Enterprise editions have extended lifecycles beyond October 2025. Microsoft Learn+2Microsoft Learn+2
Microsoft offers a Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that allows for security updates beyond EOL — typically for one extra year (until October 2026) for qualifying devices. Microsoft Support+2Microsoft Learn+2
Also for organizations, extended support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 is planned until October 10, 2028. Microsoft Support+1
Microsoft follows a defined product lifecycle policy: release → regular support → extended support → retirement. Microsoft Learn+2Microsoft Learn+2
Ending support allows Microsoft to focus development and resources on newer systems (e.g. Windows 11) that incorporate modern security, architecture, and feature improvements. Windows Blog+2BizTech Magazine+2
After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop issuing security updates or patches for standard Windows 10 editions. Microsoft Support+2Microsoft Learn+2
Technical support ends — Microsoft support agents will no longer assist with issues in Windows 10 after EOL. Microsoft Support+1
The OS will still run, but without ongoing maintenance, your system becomes increasingly vulnerable to new malware, exploits, and security threats. Microsoft Support+2Microsoft Learn+2
Microsoft 365 apps will continue functioning, but using them on an unsupported OS increases the risk of performance issues and compatibility breakdowns over time. Microsoft Support+2Microsoft Learn+2
Upgrading in a corporate environment can be more complex. It’s recommended to work with an IT professional to ensure the migration is completed smoothly and securely. This will help guarantee that:
All systems are properly upgraded.
Firewalls, antivirus, and security tools are configured and optimized.
Legacy hardware and software are tested for compatibility.
Depending on your environment, additional steps may be necessary to verify that business-critical applications and workflows continue to function correctly after the transition.