MC1172531 – Protect your Windows 10 devices after Microsoft support ends

Product:

Defender, Defender XDR, Windows

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

User impact, Admin impact, Retirement

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft ends Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025, stopping security updates and technical support. Microsoft Defender will still offer limited protection. To stay secure, upgrade to Windows 11 or use the Extended Security Update (ESU) program if upgrading isn’t immediately possible. Review compliance needs accordingly.

Details:
As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10. This means that Windows 10 devices will no longer receive security or feature updates, nor technical support from Microsoft. While these devices will continue to operate, the lack of regular security updates increases their vulnerability to cyber threats.
Microsoft Defender will continue to provide detection and protection capabilities to the extent possible on Windows 10 and other legacy systems. Keep in mind that security solutions on legacy systems are inherently less secure and may not be able to receive all new features, so please review the important actions you can take.
Actions you can take:
Upgrade to Windows 11: This is the best way to ensure your endpoints remain protected and compliant. Devices running Windows 10 will be more vulnerable, even with ongoing security intelligence updates (SIUs).
Extended security update (ESU) program: If upgrading isn't immediately possible, Microsoft offers ESU for Windows 10. ESU provides critical and important security updates but does not include new features or technical support.
For further guidance, connect with your Microsoft account team or check out these resources:
End of support for Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and Windows 7 | Microsoft Windows
How to prepare for Windows 10 end of support by moving to Windows 11 today | Windows Experience Blog
[Compliance considerations:]
Review compliance considerations as appropriate for your organization.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-10-15

updated:
2025-10-15

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased Vulnerability to Cyber Threats
Without security updates, Windows 10 devices will be more susceptible to malware and cyber attacks, leading to potential data breaches.
   - roles: IT Security Manager, System Administrator
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/windows/end-of-support?icid=SSM_Search_Windows10Endofsupport_Surface_CTA2&r=1

Limited Security Features
Microsoft Defender will not be able to provide the latest security features on Windows 10, reducing overall protection effectiveness.
   - roles: IT Security Manager, End User
   - references: https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/10/31/how-to-prepare-for-windows-10-end-of-support-by-moving-to-windows-11-today/

Compliance Risks
Organizations may face compliance issues if they continue using unsupported Windows 10 devices, as they may not meet regulatory security standards.
   - roles: Compliance Officer, IT Manager
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/windows/end-of-support?icid=SSM_Search_Windows10Endofsupport_Surface_CTA2&r=1

Increased IT Support Burden
The IT department may experience a higher volume of support requests due to issues arising from unsupported systems, impacting overall efficiency.
   - roles: Help Desk Technician, System Administrator
   - references: https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/10/31/how-to-prepare-for-windows-10-end-of-support-by-moving-to-windows-11-today/

User Experience Degradation
Users may experience performance issues and lack of new features, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End User, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/windows/end-of-support?icid=SSM_Search_Windows10Endofsupport_Surface_CTA2&r=1

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, it will stop providing security updates and technical support for this operating system. Think of it like owning an older car model that the manufacturer no longer makes parts for. You can still drive the car, but if something breaks, finding the right parts and fixing it becomes more challenging and potentially risky.

Without regular security updates, Windows 10 devices become more vulnerable to cyber threats, much like how an older car without regular maintenance might be more prone to breakdowns. Microsoft Defender will still offer some level of protection, but it's like having an older alarm system in your car; it can still deter some threats, but it may not be as effective as newer systems.

To keep your devices secure, consider upgrading to Windows 11. This is similar to trading in your old car for a new model with the latest safety features. If upgrading isn't immediately possible, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Update (ESU) program for Windows 10. This program is like a temporary warranty extension that covers critical security issues but doesn't include new features or regular support.

Review your organization's compliance needs to ensure that any decisions align with legal and regulatory requirements. This is akin to ensuring your vehicle meets all road safety regulations. For more detailed guidance, you can consult with your Microsoft account team or explore online resources provided by Microsoft.