If you’re still running Windows 10 in your business, there’s a date you need to circle in red on your calendar:
October 14, 2025 — the official end of support. 

That’s the day Microsoft says goodbye to Windows 10. No more updates. No more patches. No more technical support.
And no safety net if something breaks. 

A surprising number of businesses haven’t made a plan yet—and if you’re one of them, it’s time to rethink that. 

We’re not saying it to scare you. We’re saying it because we’ve seen what happens when businesses wait too long. 

What’s Actually Ending? 

Let’s break it down:
When Microsoft ends support, that means no more security fixes, no technical help, and no guarantees that things will keep running the way they always have. 

In short? If something goes wrong, you’re on your own. 

You may not notice issues on October 15th… but over time, software stops working the way it should. Compatibility problems pop up. Vulnerabilities grow. And unsupported systems become an open invitation for hackers. 

That’s not a risk any business should take—especially when it’s avoidable. 

So Why Haven’t More Businesses Upgraded? 

Three words: hardware compatibility issues. 

Windows 11 has stricter requirements than past upgrades. A lot of the devices still running Windows 10 simply won’t make the cut. That means you can’t just click “update”—you’ll need new machines, and that brings added cost, time, and logistics. 

Now layer in real-world issues like: 

  • Hardware shortages 
  • Budget cycles 
  • Employee scheduling 
  • Vendor software that still hasn’t caught up 

Suddenly, that “quick upgrade” looks more like a multi-month project. That’s why waiting until 2025 is risky business. 

The Real Cost of Waiting 

Some businesses figure, “We’ll deal with it later.” But here’s the reality: 

  • Extended Security Updates will be pricey—and they’re not a long-term fix. 
  • Downtime gets expensive fast (especially when something breaks unexpectedly). 
  • Non-compliance is a big deal in industries like finance, healthcare, or retail. 
  • Audits and insurance renewals could be affected if you’re running unsupported software. 

And let’s be honest—emergency upgrades never go well. They cost more, take longer, and usually come with more stress than they’re worth. 

What Does a Smart Business Do Instead? 

They plan now. Not later. Not next quarter. Now. 

A solid business continuity plan makes sure this shift doesn’t mess with your operations. It covers: 

  • What devices need to be replaced 
  • What software needs to be tested 
  • How and when updates will happen 
  • How to avoid downtime during rollout 
  • What to do if something goes sideways 

Think of it like getting your car serviced before a road trip—not waiting until you’re stranded on the side of the highway. 

How TAG Makes It Easy 

At TAG, we live for this kind of thing. Our IT consulting team ensures that while other businesses are scrambling last-minute, our clients are already done, sipping coffee while their systems hum along happily. 

Here’s how we help: 

1. Start with an Audit

We inventory everything—devices, software, compatibility—so we know what we’re working with. 

2. Check Compatibility

We figure out which systems are good to go and which need upgrades. 

3. Plan Your Path

You get a clear timeline and action plan that fits your business, your schedule, and your budget. 

4. Coordinate Rollouts

We time upgrades to minimize disruptions (and yes, we do after-hours or weekend work when needed). 

5. Test, Back Up, Validate

We double-check that everything is working, backed up, and ready before flipping the switch. 

6. Stay in the Loop

You’re never wondering “what’s next?” because we walk you through the process every step of the way. 

Tick, Tock… The Clock Is Running 

We’re not trying to be dramatic—but October 14, 2025 is coming faster than it looks. 

Even if it feels like you have “plenty of time,” a full upgrade takes months when done right. And the closer we get to the deadline, the harder it will be to find hardware, book vendors, or get personalized support. 

You don’t want to be in line behind everyone else who waited until the last minute. 

Ready to Future-Proof Your Business? 

TAG is here to make the transition easy, stress-free, and done on your terms—not Microsoft’s. 

Let’s build your business continuity plan now—before this becomes a last-minute scramble. You’ll thank yourself later. 

Schedule your planning session with TAG today.
We’ll help you stay ahead of the curve, stay secure, and stay in control. 

FAQs on Windows 10 End of Life  

What does “end of support” or “end of life” mean for Windows 10?

It means Microsoft will stop providing security patches, bug fixes, feature updates, and technical support. While the system will still run, it will become increasingly vulnerable. 

Will my computer still work after the end-of-support date?

Yes, but without updates, your system will be at greater risk for cyberattacks, compatibility issues, and performance problems over time. 

What are the risks of continuing to use Windows 10 past October 2025?

Risks include exposure to security threats, non-compliance with industry regulations, potential software failures, and limited support from third-party vendors. 

How do I know if my hardware can run Windows 11?

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool or review system requirements like TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, adequate RAM, and compatible processors. 

Is there still time to plan a migration?

Yes, but don’t wait too long. A proper migration can take several months for planning, testing, and rollout. 

What impact does EOL have on compliance and insurance?

Unsupported systems may cause compliance failures in regulated industries and could affect your ability to maintain or renew cyber insurance. 

Why is acting now important?

Delaying increases the risk of hardware shortages, higher costs, rushed upgrades, and operational downtime.