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Microsoft has officially announced that Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025. After that date, no more free security updates will be released. For small businesses, this isn’t just a technical detail - it’s a security and business risk. Cybercriminals often target outdated systems, and without regular patches, Windows 10 devices will quickly become vulnerable.
World-wide it's estimated that 50% of PCs are still running Windows 10, which is pretty shocking with the deadline so close. In our local community, the number is lower than 20%, but still, there's not a lot of time left!
At Ekaru, we’ve been helping local businesses prepare for this transition for many months, but now the deadline is under a month away. We've posted blogs, sent emails, made a lot of phone calls, hosted workshops... and now the time is here! If your business still has Windows 10 machines, here’s what you need to know - and what your options are.
What It Takes to Upgrade to Windows 11
Not every computer running Windows 10 can make the jump to Windows 11. Microsoft has set specific hardware requirements, and while they may look “technical,” here’s what they mean in plain English:
| Requirement | Official Spec | What That Means in Plain English |
|---|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a 64‑bit processor | Your computer needs to be relatively modern. If it’s more than 5 years old, the processor may not qualify. |
| RAM (Memory) | 4 GB minimum | While this is the official minimum, it would make for a very poor user experience. For reliable business use, you really want 8 GB minimum. For smooth performance and future‑proofing, 16 GB is best. |
| Available Storage | 64 GB or more | Enough room for the operating system and updates. If your drive is almost full now, you may need an upgrade. You'll need 20-30 GB of free space on the drive for the upgrade process itself. |
| TPM (Trusted Platform Module) | TPM version 2.0 | A built-in security chip. Most newer PCs have this, but many older systems don’t. |
| Firmware / Boot | UEFI with Secure Boot | A modern version of BIOS that adds security protections. |
| Graphics & Display | DirectX 12 compatible, 720p display, 9”+ screen | Most business monitors meet this automatically. |
Bottom line: If your PC is fairly new (usually less than 5 years old), it may be eligible for an upgrade. With older machines, upgrades are often difficult, and in many cases, simply not possible.
Your Three Main Options
With Windows 10 reaching end of support, here are the paths forward:
1. Upgrade in Place (for Compatible Machines)
If your system meets the requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 with no additional license cost. The process involves backing up your files, making sure Windows 10 is fully up to date, enabling TPM/Secure Boot if needed, and then running the upgrade through Windows Update.
Pros: Lower cost than buying new hardware, keeps your existing setup.
Cons: Performance may be limited if your hardware just barely meets the specs.
2. Replace Older Systems
If your computers are 5 years old or older, it’s time to replace them. This is often the most cost-effective and secure option.
Pros: Better performance, longer lifespan, more secure, lower overall maintenance.
Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires planning and migration.
3. Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates as a temporary solution. This provides critical security updates only - no new features or support.
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Year 1: ~$61 per device
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Year 2: ~$122 per device
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Year 3: ~$244 per device
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This cost doubles each year, and after three years the program ends. While this can buy time, it’s not a good long-term strategy.
Pros: Buys time if you can’t replace all systems immediately.
Cons: Expensive, temporary, and doesn’t provide new features or non-critical fixes. You'll still have an older, slower computer.
For the DIY Business Owner: How to Upgrade Yourself
If you’d like to try upgrading your PC to Windows 11, here’s a simple checklist:
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Check Compatibility – Use Microsoft’s free PC Health Check app.
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Back Up Your Files – Always back up before making major changes.
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Update Windows 10 – Make sure you’re on a recent version.
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Check TPM & Secure Boot – Enable these in your system settings if needed.
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Run the Upgrade – Use Windows Update or Microsoft’s Installation Assistant.
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Test Everything After – Printers, apps, and backups.
If this feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many businesses prefer to have us handle this to ensure it’s done safely and with minimal disruption.
Why This Matters for Security
National cybersecurity frameworks like NIST and CIS Controls stress the importance of keeping systems patched and supported. Running outdated software is one of the top risks small businesses face. Even if your systems “seem to be working fine,” once updates stop, vulnerabilities will quickly pile up - and attackers know it.
Investing time and resources now can save far bigger costs later, whether that’s downtime, lost data, or damaged customer trust.
Our Role at Ekaru
We’ve been proactively working with local clients for months to plan and execute this transition. Some had machines that were eligible for upgrade, some opted for new hardware, and some used ESU as a short-term bridge. Every business is different, and we help find the best path forward.
On top of that, our team has been reaching out directly to local businesses with letters, emails, and phone calls. We’re itemizing which systems can be upgraded and which can’t, and then presenting clear options - whether that’s upgrading in place or planning for new systems. This proactive outreach is one of the ways we make sure our clients aren’t caught off guard.
With the October 14 deadline approaching, now is the time to act. Don’t wait until you’re left unprotected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my Windows 10 computer stop working after October 14, 2025?
A: No, your computer will still continue to work. Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that, there will be no more free security updates.
Q: What happens if I keep using Windows 10 after support ends?
A: Your computer will still work, but it will no longer receive security patches. That makes it much more vulnerable to cyberattacks and malware.
Q: Can all Windows 10 computers upgrade to Windows 11?
A: No. Your PC must meet Microsoft’s hardware requirements, including a compatible processor, at least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB or more recommended), 64 GB of storage, and a TPM 2.0 security chip. Many older computers do not qualify.
Q: What are my options if my computer can’t run Windows 11?
A: You can purchase Extended Security Updates (a temporary solution), or, if your system is more than five years old, it’s usually best to replace it with a new computer.
Q: How much do Extended Security Updates cost?
A: Microsoft charges per device, starting around $61 in the first year. The cost doubles each year, so it’s only a short-term option. Note there is no support for the product, just security updates. You'll need a Microsoft account to be able to get the Extended Security Updates.
Q: Can I upgrade to Windows 11 myself?
A: Yes, if your PC is eligible. You’ll need to back up your files, update Windows 10, and follow Microsoft’s upgrade process. However, many small businesses prefer professional help to avoid downtime and ensure a smooth transition.
Q: How can Ekaru help with the transition?
A: We’re already reaching out to local businesses to identify which systems can be upgraded, which need replacing, and to plan the best path forward. We make the process safe, smooth, and secure.
Next Steps
If you’re unsure whether your computers are ready for Windows 11, or which option makes the most sense for your business, we’d love to help. We can provide a quick, no‑obligation assessment to review your systems and guide you to the best solution.
👉 Contact Ekaru today and let’s make sure your business is ready for the future.
About the author:
Ann Westerheim, PhD is the Founder and President of Ekaru, a Technology Service Provider of cybersecurity and IT services for small and medium businesses in the greater Boston area. Ann is an accomplished technology innovator and leader with three engineering degrees from MIT. She has twenty years of high tech experience in research, advanced development, product development, and as an entrepreneur. Her career has spanned a vast range of technology endeavors including research in thin film semiconductors and superconductors, microprocessor fabrication, development of early Internet medical applications, and now focusing on the application of technology in business. She has an avid focus on the "last mile" of technology and decreasing the digital divide.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/annwesterheim/ Let's connect!