Table of Contents
- Is Your Business Prepared for the Negative Consequences of Windows 10 End of Life in 2025?
- Key Products Reaching End of Life
- What End of Life (EOL) Means
- Windows 10 End of Life: Details and Options
- Mainstream Support Ends
- Extended Security Updates (ESU)
- Additional ESU Notes
- Alternative Security Solutions: 0patch
- Suitability
- LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) Variants
- Action Steps
Is Your Business Prepared for the Negative Consequences of Windows 10 End of Life in 2025?
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 22H2 and several other products on October 14, 2025. After this date, these products will not receive security updates or official support, increasing the risk of vulnerabilities and compliance issues for both individuals and organizations.
Key Products Reaching End of Life
- Windows 10 22H2
- Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019
- Microsoft Project and Visio
- Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps for Office
- Microsoft Exchange Server 2016 and 2019
- OneNote for Windows 10
What End of Life (EOL) Means
Software continues to function but no longer receives security patches or technical support from Microsoft. Increased exposure to cyber threats, malware, and compatibility issues with new hardware or software .
Windows 10 End of Life: Details and Options
Mainstream Support Ends
- Windows 10 22H2 will not receive updates after October 14, 2025.
- Microsoft recommends upgrading to Windows 11 or purchasing new hardware with Windows 11 pre-installed.
- Windows 10 remains widely used, with many users hesitant to switch due to stability and familiarity.
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
- For Consumers: One-year ESU available, approximately €30 per device. Details on availability are pending.
- For Enterprises: Up to three years of ESU can be purchased. Pricing starts at $61 for the first year, doubling each subsequent year.
- ESU sales are handled by Cloud Solution Providers (CSPs), but availability may be limited until closer to the EOL date.
Additional ESU Notes
ESU may be included for Windows 10 endpoints connected to Microsoft 365 via Windows 365 instances with appropriate licensing. Some administrators report challenges in sourcing ESU licenses ahead of the deadline.
Alternative Security Solutions: 0patch
0patch by ACROS Security provides “micropatches” for critical vulnerabilities in Windows 10 after official support ends.
Patches are applied in-memory, minimizing system changes and downtime.
Pricing:
- Free version: Covers only serious vulnerabilities
- Pro version: €24.95 + VAT per device/year
- Enterprise version: €34.95 + VAT per device/year
Subscriptions lock in pricing for two years, offering predictable costs.
Suitability
Ideal for private users, freelancers, and small businesses needing extended protection without migrating immediately. Effectiveness depends on continued software support from other vendors (browsers, banking apps, etc.), which may expire by 2028–2029.
LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) Variants
- Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC: Receives up to 10 years of support (for versions before 21H2); newer LTSC versions receive five years.
- Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC: Maintains 10-year support.
- Used licenses for LTSC SKUs may be available and legally transferable within the EU.
- Licensing for IoT variants may be more restrictive for new buyers.
Action Steps
- Audit your current systems for affected software.
- Plan upgrades to Windows 11 or LTSC variants where feasible.
- Budget for ESU or 0patch if you must continue using Windows 10.
- Monitor third-party software support for Windows 10 post-2025.
- Verify license transfer options for LTSC in your region.
October 14, 2025 marks a significant deadline for users of Windows 10 and several Microsoft productivity products. Proactive planning—whether through official ESU, alternative patching solutions, or migration to supported platforms—will help ensure ongoing security and compliance .