Windows 10 End of Support
Summary
Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will no longer be supported as of October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes.
This means that systems running Windows 10 will be non-compliant with the Security of Connected Devices Standard and become increasingly vulnerable to security threats. All systems running Windows 10 must be addressed before October 14, 2025, to avoid security and operational risks.
End-of-support OSes are not allowed on the HSVPN; any Windows 10 system not mitigated through of one of the three options below will not be allowed on the HSVPN after October 14.
Available Risk Mitigation Strategies
1) Upgrade to Windows 11: Highly recommended for most users and systems.
Windows 11 provides continued support, improved security, and modern features.
Ensure hardware compatibility before upgrading.
2) Purchase Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU): Minimally Viable Solution - Not Recommended
For systems that cannot yet be migrated (e.g., legacy applications or hardware dependencies), Microsoft will offer paid Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 through October 2028.
Requires Windows 10 version 22H2
ESUs provide critical and important security patches only.
Not fully supported and no guarantee of ongoing compatibility or viability for intended use.
Contact [email protected] to purchase ESU licenses.
3) Utilize Windows 10 LTSC 2021 (21H2)
The LTSC (long-term servicing channel) edition will be fully supported by Microsoft until January 12, 2027.
ESUs will not be available for this edition after its end-of-support date.
According to Microsoft’s design, LTSC is intended for special-purpose devices or situations, not for general-purpose devices or workstations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?
Windows 10 was released in 2015. Following Microsoft’s standard support lifecycle, October 14, 2025, marks the end of its 10-year support window.
What happens if I keep using Windows 10 after October 2025?
Your system will not receive any security updates, putting it at increased risk for malware, ransomware, and compliance violations.
System posture checking by the Opswat client already prevents devices with out-of-support OSes from accessing the HSVPN, protecting UVA’s highly sensitive data. Beginning October 14, Opswat will prevent Windows 10 systems (except LTSC editions and those with installed ESUs) from accessing the HSVPN.
ITS only verifies service compatibility with supported operating systems.
How can I tell if my hardware is compatible with Windows 11?
Use the PC Health Check tool or refer to Microsoft’s minimum hardware requirements.
What if I can't upgrade to Windows 11?
If you have a legitimate business or technical need to keep Windows 10, you must purchase Extended Security Updates (ESUs) or use the LTSC edition to remain supported.
How do I request ESU licenses?
Submit a request to [email protected].
How long will ESUs be available?
Microsoft will offer ESUs for Windows 10 through October 2028, sold in annual increments. However, each year will increase in cost.