Windows 10 Support Ends Tomorrow! What Business Owners Need to Do Now

What happens to my business computers after Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025? 

If your company is still running Windows 10, the answer is simple. After October 14, your computers will keep turning on, but your protection ends. 

Microsoft will officially stop providing free security updates, patches, and technical support for Windows 10, leaving every device exposed to new cyber threats. For small and midsized businesses in Washington and Oregon, that’s more than an inconvenience; it’s a serious security and compliance risk. Companies in regulated industries like healthcare, financial services, and legal will be hit the hardest. Once support ends, running Windows 10 could violate compliance frameworks such as HIPAA, GLBA, and FTC Safeguards, all of which require up-to-date security systems. A single outdated workstation could trigger an audit failure, fines, or even a breach notification nightmare. 

The bottom line: Windows 10 End of Support isn’t just an IT deadline, it’s a business risk you can’t afford to ignore. 

Why It Matters for Business Owners 

You’ve got a company to run, the last thing you need is an unexpected IT disruption or compliance issue. But ignoring the Windows 10 deadline could lead to serious business consequences: 

Compliance and Legal Exposure 

If you handle regulated or sensitive data, healthcare, financial, or customer information, running an unsupported OS could trigger compliance violations under frameworks like HIPAA, FTC Safeguards, and GLBA. That means potential fines and liability that your business can easily avoid by upgrading now. 

Security Risks 

Once support ends, your Windows 10 systems become an open target for hackers. Without Microsoft’s regular security patches, even one infected device could compromise your entire network. 

Software Compatibility Problems 

Modern business software is constantly updated for newer systems. After October 14, many of your critical tools may slow down, glitch, or stop working altogether. 

What Are Your Options? 

If your PCs are still running Windows 10, here’s what you can do: 

1. Upgrade to Windows 11 
This is the most secure and future-ready option, but not every PC can handle it. Windows 11 requires modern hardware, including TPM 2.0 and secure boot support. 

2. Replace Old PCs 
If your devices don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, it might be more cost-effective to replace them. Many businesses in Washington and Oregon are taking this opportunity to refresh aging hardware and improve performance. 

3. Enroll in Microsoft Extended Security Updates (ESU) 
You can temporarily extend protection by enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program, but this is a short-term patch, not a long-term fix. 

4. Do Nothing (Not Recommended) 
Running unsupported systems leaves your business vulnerable to cyberattacks, downtime, and compliance risk. This is not the time to gamble. 

Extended Support: The Temporary Lifeline 

If you need a little more time, Microsoft offers a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) option after October 14. 

For personal use devices, pay $30 or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points, and for businesses, pay $61 per device for the first year. But remember this is only a one-year extension, not a permanent solution. You still need to plan your full upgrade before the next expiration. 

How to Prepare Your Business Now 

Before upgrading or replacing devices: 

• Back up your data to ensure no files are lost. 
• Work with your IT provider to identify which PCs are compatible with Windows 11 and which need replacement. 
• Create a migration plan to avoid downtime and disruptions. 

At Teknologize, we’re helping businesses throughout Washington and Oregon make this transition seamless, no last-minute chaos, no security gaps, no hidden costs. 

Windows 10 End-of-Support FAQs

1. Can I still use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025?

Yes, but it’s risky. The system will continue to run, but without security updates, your data becomes vulnerable to cyber threats.

2. What if my computers can’t upgrade to Windows 11? 

You can either replace those PCs or temporarily enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for one additional year of patch support.

3. What happens if I miss the deadline?

You’ll lose access to critical security updates, potentially putting your business at risk of data breaches, compliance issues, and system failures.

4. How can Teknologize help? 

We specialize in helping businesses across Washington and Oregon plan and execute their Windows 11 migration, with zero downtime and full data protection. 

Final Reminder 

Don’t wait for the “unsupported OS” alerts or a cyber incident to force your hand. 

Act now, protect your business, and move forward with confidence. 

About Teknologize

Teknologize is a SOC 2 Type II accredited Managed IT and Cybersecurity provider serving small to mid-sized businesses across Washington and Oregon. We deliver full-service Managed IT Support, Co-Managed IT Support, advanced Cybersecurity Solutions, and IT Compliance Services for regulated industries, including Healthcare, Financial Institutions, the Utilities Sector, Manufacturing, and Professional Services.

👉 Book a Discovery Call to see how Teknologize can support your business.

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