Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, halting free security patches and feature updates. Organisations that delay migration face hefty costs through Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme.

Rising Costs of Staying on Windows 10

According to analysis from Nexthink, companies could collectively spend more than $7.3 billion in the first year alone to maintain support. The calculation assumes that 121 million PCs will still be running Windows 10 after October 14, at an estimated $61 per device for ESU.

Nexthink also noted a 33% drop in Windows 10 endpoints between May 19 and August 1, but millions of devices remain un-upgraded as the deadline approaches.

“Unpatched Windows 10 machines are likely to be targeted by cybercriminals,” Nexthink warned, urging IT leaders to prioritise migration rather than rely on costly stopgaps.

Why Organisations Delayed

Many businesses traditionally align operating system upgrades with PC refresh cycles, meaning Windows 11 adoption has lagged despite its release in October 2021.

Some organisations cite reliance on legacy applications and peripherals as reasons for delay. However, analysts argue that Microsoft’s tighter security model—including mandatory Secure Boot in Windows 11—makes continued support for older drivers and software untenable.

The AI PC Factor

Beyond security, Microsoft is using Windows 11 to push next-generation capabilities such as Copilot+ AI features and conversational AI assistants.

“AI PCs are reshaping the market, but adoption in 2025 is slowing because of tariffs and pauses in PC buying caused by market uncertainty,” said Ranjt Atwal, senior director analyst at Gartner. Gartner forecasts that by 2026, 55% of PCs sold will be AI PCs.

Atwal noted that while Microsoft once pitched Windows 10 as “the last major version of Windows,” support is now ending as Windows 11 becomes the foundation for new AI-driven capabilities.

Migration as an Opportunity

Tim Flower, digital employee strategist at Nexthink, said businesses should view the transition as more than a compliance exercise.

“Moving from one operating system to another shouldn’t feel like a disruption; it should be an opportunity to improve how employees work every day,” Flower explained. “The goal is to avoid productivity being interrupted by an IT event and help organisations see clear benefits from their investment.”

What Happens Next

After October 14, Windows 10 machines without ESU will be left vulnerable, with no security patches, bug fixes, or performance updates. Analysts expect only a minority of organisations will pay for ESU, using it as a short-term bridge while completing migrations.