Windows 10 is end-of-life: what Melbourne businesses need to do now
Windows 10 support ended in October 2025. If your business is still running it, here's the risk and your options for moving to Windows 11.
Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025. If your business is still running it, here is the plain-English risk and your options.
On 14 October 2025, Microsoft ended free support for Windows 10. That does not mean your computers stopped working — it means they stopped receiving the free security updates that patch newly discovered vulnerabilities. Every month that passes, an unsupported PC becomes a little more exposed.
Why running an unsupported OS is a real risk
When researchers and attackers find new vulnerabilities in Windows, Microsoft normally releases a patch. On an unsupported system, those patches no longer come — so known holes stay open permanently. Attackers specifically scan for unsupported systems because they are soft, predictable targets. Running Windows 10 unprotected into 2026 is a growing liability, and many cyber-insurance policies now expect supported operating systems as a condition of cover.
Your options
Upgrade eligible PCs to Windows 11
free for machines that meet the hardware requirements (notably TPM 2.0 and a recent enough processor). This is the cleanest path for most.
Replace older hardware
PCs that do not meet Windows 11 requirements need replacing. Often the right call anyway for machines several years old.
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers paid ESU as a temporary bridge, buying time but not a long-term answer. A stopgap, not a strategy.
What to do now
Start with an audit: which machines run Windows 10, which can upgrade to Windows 11, and which need replacing. From there it is a simple plan — upgrade what can be upgraded, replace what cannot, on a sensible timeline and budget. We handle this end to end, from the audit through to procuring and deploying replacement devices configured and secured before they reach your staff, as part of managed IT.
Do not let it drift
The risk of an unsupported OS is not dramatic on day one — it compounds quietly. The businesses that handle this well treat it as a planned project now, rather than an emergency after an incident. If you are unsure what you are running, that uncertainty is itself the first thing to fix.
Frequently asked questions
When did Windows 10 reach end of life?
14 October 2025. After that date, Microsoft stopped providing free security updates for Windows 10.
Is it safe to keep using Windows 10?
It still runs, but without security updates it becomes increasingly vulnerable, and many insurers and compliance frameworks now expect supported operating systems.
Can my PC upgrade to Windows 11 for free?
Yes, if it meets the hardware requirements (including TPM 2.0 and a supported processor). Older machines that do not qualify need replacing.
What are Extended Security Updates?
A paid Microsoft program providing security updates for Windows 10 beyond end of support — a temporary bridge, not a long-term solution.
Get a Windows 10 audit and plan
We will audit your fleet and give you a clear, costed upgrade plan. Call 1300 053 948 or book a free review.
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