When Microsoft first announced that Windows 10 would hit end of support in October 2025, it felt like we all had plenty of time. But here we are—March 2025—and the deadline is just seven months away. That’s barely two business quarters to assess your systems, acquire any necessary hardware, and complete the upgrade process.
In my experience, this is when the real scramble begins. Companies that wait until the last minute often face backorders, rushed deployments, and unexpected costs. That’s why I’m telling clients now: it’s not early anymore—but you can still get ahead of the rush.
Let’s step back for a moment. Windows 11 was officially released in October 2021. By 2023, it had become the default OS for most new business hardware, and by early 2024, Microsoft had already stopped selling Windows 10 licenses to manufacturers. Fast forward to today, and Windows 11 has been available for nearly four years. The runway is short, and on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will pull the plug on Windows 10 support.
What does that actually mean? It means no more security patches, no more bug fixes, and no more support from Microsoft. For businesses, that’s not just a technicality—it’s a security and compliance risk. Running an unsupported operating system leaves you vulnerable to cyber threats. If you’re in a regulated industry like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing, it could also put you out of compliance. I’ve also seen a growing number of cyber insurance policies that require supported systems. If you’re still running Windows 10 after the cutoff, you might find yourself without coverage when you need it most.
There’s also the hardware factor. Windows 11 has stricter system requirements—TPM 2.0, newer processors, and other hardware features that many older PCs simply don’t have. That means a lot of businesses need to replace devices—not just upgrade software. Now, imagine millions of companies and individuals all trying to do the same thing, at the same time. Sound familiar? It should. We’ve been through this before with chip shortages and supply chain delays. Prices rise, availability drops, and lead times stretch. We’re already seeing signs of hardware inventory tightening. The closer we get to October, the more crowded—and expensive—this process will become.
And it’s not just about equipment. Upgrading an entire organization takes time—planning, testing, rolling out new systems, and supporting your staff through the change. IT providers like ours are already booking up fast. If you wait too long, you might find that your provider simply doesn’t have availability when you need them. The best-case scenario? You start now and move on your own timeline—not in a panic when everyone else is scrambling.
Now, I’ll be honest: this isn’t just about avoiding problems. Windows 11 offers real advantages. Enhanced security features, faster performance, and a smoother user experience that’s designed for today’s hybrid work environments. Teams integration, better window management, and a streamlined interface all make daily work easier and more efficient. This upgrade is about future-proofing your business, not just ticking a box.
If you’re wondering whether your current devices can handle Windows 11, we can help. A quick assessment will show you exactly what’s ready and what’s not. And if you’re weighing your options, know that Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates for Windows 10—but at a steep cost and only for a limited time. For most businesses, those funds are better spent moving forward, not holding onto the past.
The window to act is narrowing, but it’s not closed. We’re helping clients right now to assess, plan, and execute their Windows 11 transitions—before they’re caught in a last-minute scramble. If you’re looking to avoid disruption, maintain security, and stay compliant, let’s talk. Our team is here to guide you through it—smoothly and on schedule.
Ken Gulick, Professional Services Leader – OXEN Technology