It seems like just yesterday we were reveling in the announcement from Microsoft that Windows 10 would be the last version of Windows. No more upgrades, no more end-of-service support, no more IT hassle. It seemed utopian.
Now here we are. We’re well into Windows 11 — waiting for Windows 12 — and dealing with the end-of-service for Windows 10. How things change.
It won’t be long until October 14, 2025, arrives. This date is significant because it is the current end of support date for Windows 10.
That means that any machines running Windows 10 — even the latest version of 22H2 (from the second half of 2022, per the version number listed in the OS) — will no longer receive security patches and updates. While Windows 10 will continue to function, it won’t be secure.
It is important to note that since the end of 2022, Windows 10 has only been getting security patches and not any new features or operational updates. Windows 10 — like the versions before it, including Windows 8, Windows Vista, and even Windows XP — will continue to function but will not be securely connected to the internet and should have physical access restricted as well.
In some cases, you might have to continue to run old, unsupported operating systems. Before doing so, please be sure to consult with your IT staff or an outside vendor to get the best practices and ensure these systems are safe and secure.
Remember to review non-IT systems, as well
This could also be a good time to review those old lighting, HVAC, and phone systems that might need to be upgraded, if they only run on older operating systems.
We recommend ensuring all machines are upgraded to Windows 11, 24H2 (from the end of 2024 — the most recent version of Windows 11) by October 14, 2025. Running operating systems that are no longer under support is dangerous, and I’ve seen churches and ministries compromised because they are running software that is not being patched.
We know October 14, 2025, is coming … and so do the bad actors.
Take inventory of your computer hardware
While most machines can run Windows 11, and the upgrade is free, there are always a few exceptions. Taking inventory now and creating an upgrade plan will ensure the weeks leading up to October 14, 2025, are stress-free.
Get educated!
As with any significant operating system upgrade, it is also wise to plan some end user education and training.
We want our users to be productive and not frustrated by software changes. Windows 11 does move a few things around, so a bit of training now can save a lot of support calls later. It also can help users feel empowered by IT and not restricted by changes they cannot control.
Hopefully, your IT team is already leading you down this path. If not, find out why or look for an outside resource to help ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.
It is also worth noting that Microsoft might change this date to give some more time, but the end is nevertheless near for Windows 10.
Here’s to getting everything migrated to Windows 11 before Windows 12 comes out!
Jonathan Smith is the President of MBS, Inc. and the Director of Technology at Faith Ministries in Lafayette, Ind. He is an author and frequent conference speaker. Follow him on X @JonathanESmith.
