Microsoft operating system Windows 10 will reach the end of support (EoS) in October 2025.
While your PC will still work, Microsoft “will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10” as of October 14, 2025. Microsoft is encouraging users to begin the shift to Windows 11 now.
This change will impact many businesses and our customers in Oshkosh, Neenah, Appleton, and the surrounding areas. To minimize the impact on your business and ensure a smooth transition, it is best to start preparing for the change in the coming months.
How Fox Cities Businesses Can Prepare for the End of Windows 10
If you’re already working with our team at Computer Corner, we’ve got you covered and will be working with you directly to ensure a smooth transition. If not, we’ve put together some guidelines for Fox Cities businesses to prepare for the shift from Windows 10.
Assess Your Current Infrastructure
Start by identifying any company devices still running Windows 10. Review the hardware specs, software dependencies, and lifecycle status to determine whether the device is compatible with Windows 11. If you have older devices that don’t meet Windows 11 system requirements, you’ll need to make a replacement plan and budget.
Consider Operating System Alternatives
Windows 11 is the natural successor, but it’s not the only option. Review and evaluate its benefits, including enhanced security and productivity features.
Depending on your business needs, you might also consider alternatives such as Linux, Mac, or Chromebook operating systems. Keep in mind that some devices and software connections may not be compatible with different operating systems.
Plan Your Transition Budget
Budgeting effectively for the transition from Windows 10 ensures that leadership and financial stakeholders are aligned and the migration aligns with organizational goals. Budget approval and financial planning can take some time, so it’s best to get started on this process sooner rather than later.
As you set your budget, here are some key financial considerations:
- Device Replacement Costs: If existing devices don’t meet Windows 11 or other operating system requirements, get quotes and budget for updated equipment or hardware upgrades. You may get bulk discounts if you purchase multiple devices at once.
- Licensing: Review all current licensing agreements, subscriptions, and contracts to determine whether they include and align with Windows 11. You may need to budget early cancellations or upgrade fees.
- Accessories: If you’re replacing devices, you may also need to budget for other accessories such as keyboards, mice, webcams, cables, and monitors to make sure they’re compatible.
- Logistics & Deployment: Be sure to account for shipping devices to various locations or remote employees, recycling outdated electronics, and other logistical costs.
- Software Compatibility: Whether it’s a homemade solution one of your team members developed or it’s a specific manufacturing software that only works with certain operating systems, identifying software or applications that are needed for your business operations and which operating system they are compatible with can help your team develop a transition or support plan.
Set a Migration Timeline
To minimize business disruptions and budget impact, it’s best to plan upgrades and replacements and spread them out throughout the coming months. Try to schedule all migrations to be complete by June or early July to give yourself three months to troubleshoot and allow for contingencies.
Break the migration into manageable milestones, ensuring plenty of buffer time for unforeseen delays. Communicate these milestones to leadership and department heads to help keep everyone on track.
A good way to organize the process is by specific departments or location. If possible, perform upgrades during off-hours or during periods of reduced activity to minimize downtime.
Create Backup and Recovery Plans
A robust backup and recovery strategy is essential when transitioning from Windows 10 to prevent data loss and handle potential issues during or after the migration.
Back up the entire system, including OS configurations, applications, and user data, before initiating the migration. Perform incremental backups of critical files and data during the migration to capture changes made after the full backup.
After migration, confirm that all files, applications, and configurations were transferred correctly and are fully operational. Deploy real-time or daily backups to maintain data integrity and ensure minimal data loss in case of future issues.
Plan for Extra Training & IT Support
Training and support are critical during the transition from Windows 10 to help users adapt to the new environment, take advantage of productivity-enhancing features, and maintain workflows.
To start, provide a clear overview of the new operating system’s interface, key features, and benefits. Highlight differences from Windows 10, such as updates to file management, settings navigation, and security enhancements.
Be sure to block some dedicated time to support employees who may need extra assistance and training or troubleshoot issues.
Windows 11: Key Features & Upgrades
- New eye-catching user interface
- Auto HDR and dynamic lighting
- Smart recommendations in Start menu and File Explorer to help users find and organize files
- Passkeys are integrated with Windows Hello
- Easy system waking and locking
- Extra security with Smart App Control
- Live captions in Teams calls
- Windows Studio Effects for video calls
- And more!
Review all updates and compare Windows 11 to Windows 10 with this Microsoft guide.
Need Help With the Transition?
If you need extra assistance transitioning computers to Windows 11 or a new operating system, Computer Corner is here for you. Our team of IT experts can help streamline the process and keep your business up and running.
Contact us today to learn more about the end of Windows 10 support and how it may impact your business.
