Preparing for the End of Windows 10 Support in October
As Microsoft phases out support for Windows 10 in October, users and businesses worldwide face an essential decision: how to transition smoothly to an updated system without disrupting operations or security. Here’s an updated guide to help you navigate this change:
- Understand What End of Support Means
When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, it will no longer receive updates, including critical security patches. This leaves devices running Windows 10 increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats and malware. Compatibility with newer software and hardware may also decline over time.
- Assess Your Current Setup
Start by conducting an inventory of all devices running Windows 10. This includes:
- Identifying outdated hardware that may not support newer operating systems.
- Listing critical applications and verifying their compatibility with Windows 11 or alternative systems.
- Checking license and support agreements for any dependencies on Windows 10.
- Upgrade to Windows 11
For most users, upgrading to Windows 11 is the logical next step. Here’s how to prepare:
- Check System Requirements: Ensure your devices meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capabilities.
- Backup Your Data: Before upgrading, create a full backup of your data to avoid potential loss during installation.
- Plan the Transition: For businesses, schedule upgrades during low-usage periods to minimise disruption.
- Plan for Hardware Replacement
Older devices may not support Windows 11. In such cases:
- Upgrade Your Hardware: Invest in modern devices compatible with the latest software.
- Budget Ahead: Anticipate costs and plan your budget for hardware replacements or significant upgrades.
- Ensure Data Security
As support ends, securing your data becomes paramount:
- Use Antivirus Software: Protect unsupported systems with robust antivirus and anti-malware tools.
- Disconnect from the Internet: For systems that cannot be upgraded, consider isolating them from networks to reduce vulnerability and Cyber Essentials requirements.
- Migrate to Secure Platforms: Move critical files to supported platforms or cloud storage with ongoing updates.
- Educate and Train Your Team
For businesses, prepare employees for the transition:
- Provide Training: Familiarise staff with new systems or features.
- Update Policies: Revise IT policies to reflect changes in software and hardware.
- Offer Support: Ensure a helpdesk or IT support is available during the transition.
- Test and Validate the Transition
Before rolling out changes across all systems:
- Run Pilot Tests: Test upgrades on a limited number of devices to identify potential issues.
- Validate Compatibility: Ensure all critical software and hardware function as expected post-upgrade.
- Keep an Eye on Extended Support Options
Microsoft has announced that extended security updates (ESU) for Windows 10 will be available to the education sector for three years.
At the time of writing, the UK pricing is not clear. However, the prices per device announced in the US double in each of the three years. For education customers, Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) pricing is set at $1 per device for the first year, $2 for the second year, and $4 for the third year, making it significantly cheaper than the commercial pricing which is significantly higher per device per year.
Using the ESU programme could be said to merely delay the inevitable, as it involves spending time and money that could be devoted to a longer-term solution. ESUs are intended only as a stop-gap measure to support the transition to Windows 11.
If you use the ESU route, this will be compliant for Cyber Essentials, you will just need to state this in the relevant question of the submission that ESU in place.
Final Thoughts
The end of Windows 10 support marks a critical moment for users and organisations to modernise their technology infrastructure. By planning ahead, evaluating options, and implementing a structured transition plan, you can ensure a seamless move to a more secure and efficient system. Don’t wait until the last minute start preparing today to stay ahead of the curve.