Microsoft’s end‑of‑support (EOS) for Windows 10 is fast approaching—on October 14, 2025 for most editions. After that date, no security updates or technical assistance will be available, leaving your organization exposed to new vulnerabilities and compliance gaps. The key question isn’t if you’ll need to upgrade, but when and how.
Below is a quick‑start guide to help you transition smoothly without disrupting operations or breaking budget constraints.
1. Map Your Current Landscape
| What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Device inventory – Count PCs, laptops, servers, IoT devices still running Windows 10. | Determines migration scope and hardware upgrade needs. |
| Application compatibility – List all critical business apps (ERP, CRM, custom software). | Some legacy applications may not run on newer OSes or require re‑licensing. |
| Security posture – Review current patch levels, antivirus coverage, and endpoint protection. | Identifies gaps that could be exploited once EOS hits. |
Tip: Use tools like Microsoft Endpoint Manager (Intune) or third‑party inventory solutions to automate data collection.
2. Decide on the Target Platform
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 11 – Microsoft’s next‑generation desktop OS. | Modern UI, improved security features, longer support lifecycle. | Requires newer hardware (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot) and may need app re‑testing. |
| Linux/ChromeOS – For non‑critical or thin‑client workloads. | Lower licensing costs, strong security model. | Steeper learning curve; some Windows‑only apps won’t run natively. |
| Hybrid – Keep legacy systems for niche roles while moving core business to newer OSes. | Minimizes disruption. | Requires maintaining two environments—more complex management. |
Choose based on your organization’s size, industry regulations, and IT skill set.
3. Build a Migration Roadmap
- Pilot Phase – Pick a small group of users or a single department to test the new OS.
- Compatibility Testing – Run all critical applications in a sandbox; address any issues (e.g., missing drivers, unsupported APIs).
- Data & Application Backup – Ensure full backups before any OS changes.
- Deployment Strategy – Use Windows Autopilot or System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) for automated provisioning.
- Rollback Plan – Keep a “golden image” of the current environment in case you need to revert.
Set clear milestones and communicate them across departments to keep everyone aligned.
4. Address Security & Compliance
- Patch Management – Even after EOS, you’ll still need to patch any remaining Windows 10 machines that remain in use (e.g., for legacy support).
- Endpoint Protection – Deploy a modern antivirus/EDR solution that supports the new OS.
- Compliance Audits – Verify that your migration plan meets industry standards such as PCI‑DSS, HIPAA, or GDPR.
5. Budget & Vendor Coordination
| Item | Cost Considerations |
|---|---|
| Hardware upgrades – New laptops/servers with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. | Bulk purchasing discounts; consider leasing options. |
| Licensing – Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, Office 365, third‑party software. | Evaluate volume licensing agreements. |
| Training & Support – IT staff training, end‑user onboarding. | Allocate time for workshops and helpdesk readiness. |
Engage with Microsoft partners early to secure discounts and technical guidance.
6. Communicate the Change
- Executive briefings – Highlight ROI, risk mitigation, and compliance benefits.
- End‑user communications – Explain what’s changing, how it will affect daily work, and where to get help.
- Support channels – Set up a dedicated migration helpdesk or ticketing queue.
Clear communication reduces resistance and accelerates adoption.
7. Final Checklist Before EOS
- All critical devices have been upgraded or replaced.
- Application compatibility issues resolved.
- Security controls are in place for the new OS.
- Backup strategy verified; restore tests passed.
- Training materials and support resources published.
- Timeline aligned with business cycles (avoid peak periods).
Bottom Line
The end of Windows 10 support isn’t a distant threat—it’s an immediate deadline that demands action now. By mapping your environment, choosing the right platform, planning a phased migration, and securing both technology and people, you can transition without downtime or security gaps.
Take the first step today: Contact Granite Tech today. We can run an inventory audit for your business, set up a pilot team, and schedule a project kickoff meeting. Your future‑proof IT infrastructure starts with a single decision—make it count.
Granite Data Tech – Your Technology Partner, Focused on Your Success.
GDT Admin