Mark your calendars: support for Windows 10 officially ends on October 14, 2025—a decade after its launch. As the countdown begins, it’s time to prepare for what comes next.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Windows 10 End of Life:
- What this milestone means for your business.
- How to transition seamlessly and stay secure.
- An overview of supported Windows 11 versions and upgrade options.
At RCS, we’re here to help you navigate these changes confidently. Don’t wait—get the insights and solutions you need to keep your systems running smoothly. Stay ahead of the curve!
Short on Time?
Here’s the condensed version: The vast majority of POS Terminals issued by RCS run an LTSC version of Windows.
Check to see if EOL will affect your terminal : Check what version of Windows you are running.
- If Professional: Check for Windows 11 compatibility and upgrade – Windows 11 Installation Assistant
- If LTSB/C: Check Windows 10 release information. Determine when support for your version will end (it could be as far out as 2032). If support ends sooner than later, reimage with Windows 11 LTSC (if applicable) or replace the device (LTSB/C versions cannot use the installation assistant to upgrade to Windows 11. They must be reimaged).
Current Hardware Options from RCS:
- Touch Dynamic Razors now come with Windows 11 LTSC. Existing Razors with Windows 10 LTSC can be reimaged with the new OS.
- NCR CX7, HP Engage One Pro, and the Engage Go still come with Windows 10 LTSC. RCS is waiting for NCR and HP to adopt Windows 11 LTSC for those devices.
Windows 10 End of Life (EOL): What This Means for Retailers
Windows 10 End of Life (EOL) means that Microsoft will no longer provide technical support, security updates, or new feature updates for the Windows 10 operating system.
The end of support date for Windows 10 is significant because it means your PC or point-of-sale terminal will no longer receive updates that keep it secure and running smoothly.
The final version of Windows 10, 22H2, will be the last one, and all editions will continue to receive monthly security updates until then.
The following editions will receive monthly security update releases until that final date:
- Home
- Pro edition
- Pro Education
- Pro for Workstations
- Education
- Enterprise
- Enterprise multi-session
Additionally, current LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel) releases will receive updates based on their lifecycles even after this date. Its successor, Windows 11, will become the only OS, (unless Windows 12 happens to emerge next year).
So, by October 2025, if you’re running Windows 10, it will no longer receive updates. Right now, many people are still using Windows, with market share figures showing that Windows 10 remains the popular operating system, still way ahead of Windows 11.
When is EOL for Windows 10?
Microsoft has set October 14, 2025, as the official End of Life date for Windows 10.
After this date, security updates will no longer be provided, and Microsoft will cease technical support for the operating system.
However, there are some exceptions for certain enterprise editions and special IoT Enterprise Editions, which will receive extended security updates up to three years after the end of support date.
Why Windows 10 EOL Matters?
As of 14 October 2025, the following changes will be implemented:
- You will no longer receive free monthly security updates or bug-fix patches
- You will no longer receive technical support from Microsoft
- You will no longer receive feature updates
While your Windows 10 PC or point-of-sale terminal will keep working, it will become more vulnerable to security issues such as viruses, malware, and cyber threats after Windows 10 reaches the end of support.
Without monthly security update releases, any new security vulnerabilities discovered will not be patched, making your PC less safe.
This could result in losing sensitive data, cyberattacks, or poor system performance over time for businesses and individuals. Therefore, understanding the implications of Windows 10 EOL is crucial to protect your devices and data.
What Are Your Options When Windows 10 Reaches End of Life?
When Windows 10 reaches its End of Support on October 14, 2025, it’s essential to plan ahead. Depending on your needs, budget, and system requirements, here are four key options to consider:
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the recommended path for most users, especially if your PC or terminal meets the system requirements.
Check Eligibility: Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click “Check for updates.” If your device qualifies for a free upgrade, you’ll receive guidance through the installation process.
Explore New Devices: If your PC or terminal isn’t compatible, consider purchasing a new device pre-installed with Windows 11. These machines are optimized for the latest features and enhanced security, providing a better experience.
Benefits of Windows 11: Its modern design, improved performance, and advanced security updates make it ideal for today’s needs.
2. Continue Using Windows 10
You can continue using Windows 10 after its End of Life, but it comes with significant risks:
No more security updates, leaving your system vulnerable to cyberattacks.
No new features or performance improvements.
This option may work temporarily for older PCs, but the risks and limitations will outweigh the benefits over time.
3. Purchase a New Device
If your current PC is outdated or incompatible with Windows 11, investing in a new device is a smart move:
Advantages of New PCs or POS Terminals: Improved performance, energy efficiency, and pre-installed Windows 11 ensure you’re future-ready.
Long-Term Savings: A new device often includes better security features and support, reducing potential costs from system failures or vulnerabilities.
4. Use Extended Security Updates (ESUs)*
For businesses using Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for up to three years beyond the End of Life date.
ESUs provide critical security patches, allowing enterprises more time to transition to Windows 11 without compromising safety.
Microsoft Windows 11: Which Versions Are Supported?
With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10, many users are considering an upgrade to Windows 11. Here’s an overview of the support timelines for the various editions:
Windows 11 Home and Pro
- Mainstream Support: Typically lasts at least five years, expected to continue until 2026 or beyond.
- Extended Support: Adds an additional five years, likely extending until 2031.
Windows 11 Pro for Workstations and Enterprise
These editions, tailored for business and enterprise use, follow similar support lifecycles. They offer advanced features designed for improved performance and security, making them ideal for professional environments.
Microsoft has committed to regular updates and enhancements for Windows 11, ensuring ongoing support and new features for years to come.
For the most up-to-date information on Windows 11 support, visit the Windows 11 Lifecycle Page.
How to Prepare for Windows 10 End-of-Life
Here’s how you can get ready for Windows 10 EOL and ensure a smooth transition:
1. Back Up Your PC Files
Before making any significant changes, be sure to back up all your important files to an external hard drive or a cloud storage service. This ensures that your data is safe and can be restored if anything goes wrong during the transition.
Windows Backup allows you to save and transfer your files, settings, apps, and login credentials, making it easy to feel at home on your new computer in no time.
2. Check Your PC’s Compatibility
If you’re considering upgrading to Windows 11, check whether your current PC meets the necessary system requirements. You can use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to find out if your device is compatible.
3. Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC meets the requirements, you can upgrade directly to Windows 11. Ensure that your PC is fully updated and has the latest Windows 10 updates installed before proceeding with the upgrade.
4. Consider Replacing Old Hardware
If your old PC isn’t compatible with Windows 11, and extended updates are not an option, consider buying a new computer. This will not only ensure that you’re running a supported operating system, but it will also improve performance and extend the life of your device.
5. Plan for Extended Support
If you are a business relying on Microsoft Windows 10, you might want to explore extended security and feature updates through Microsoft’s ESU program*. This will help your business stay protected while you prepare to transition to a newer version of Windows.
How to Secure Your Windows 10 PC After October 2025
After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 PCs will continue to function, but without updates, they will become more vulnerable to security threats. Here’s how you can enhance security and stay protected:
1. Consider the Extended Security Updates (ESU) Program*
Microsoft will offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for users who need to keep using Windows 10 after support ends. This program provides critical security and feature updates for at least one year beyond the official end-of-support date.
- Details and pricing for the ESU program will be announced closer to October 2025.
- The ESU program is also available for commercial customers.
2. Business Users and IT Professionals
For businesses and IT teams, Microsoft provides resources to prepare for the end of Windows 10 support. Visit the Microsoft Windows Updates page to:
- Learn how to secure devices post-support.
- Explore offers tailored for organizations using cloud-based management tools.
3. Reach Out for Additional Support
If you’re part of an educational institution, non-profit, or other organization, consult your Microsoft Volume Licensing reseller or contact your Microsoft team for guidance and special offers.
*ESUs must be purchased directly from Microsoft.