Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support. This significantly increases the risk of cyber threats, compliance breaches, and operational disruptions for Australian businesses and users.
What Does This Mean for Your Business?
While your Windows 10 PCs will still operate, continuing to run unsupported operating systems can lead to:
- Increased vulnerability to cyberattacks
- Software and driver compatibility issues
- Rising support and compliance risks
- Reduced productivity due to aging hardware
What Are Your Options?
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
If your PC meets Microsoft’s hardware requirements, upgrading ensures continued security, performance, and feature support.
2.Replace Legacy Devices
Older machines that cannot run Windows 11 should be replaced with Windows 11-compatible hardware. Many vendors offer modern, secure devices tailored to business needs.
3. Subscribe to Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers a one-year ESU plan (USD $30/device). This provides critical security updates beyond October 2025 while you assess longer-term strategies.
4. Explore Linux-Based Alternatives
Distributions like Linux Mint can be installed on legacy PCs, offering a secure, lightweight platform for general computing and web access.
5. Consider Virtual Desktop Solutions (Citrix)
For organisations with legacy apps or centralised management needs, Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops provide a powerful solution. You can extend the life of existing hardware by running Windows 11 or supported OS versions from secure data centres or the cloud – while presenting a consistent desktop to users.
6. Leverage Secure Edge OS with IGEL
IGEL OS is a lightweight, Linux-based endpoint operating system designed for secure, centrally managed access to VDI and DaaS environments (e.g., Citrix, Microsoft AVD, VMware). It’s ideal for repurposing Windows 10 endpoints as secure thin clients – extending life and reducing costs.
How Sense-IT Can Help
At Sense-IT, we align technology with your business goals. We support IT leaders, operations teams, and business stakeholders through change with:
- Environment Assessments – Identify hardware compatibility and lifecycle risks
- Transition Planning – Create tailored roadmaps including ESU, upgrades, VDI or IGEL migration
- Citrix and IGEL Integration Support – Configure and deploy scalable desktop environments
- Cost/Benefit Analysis – Build financial models for on-prem, cloud, hybrid, and thin client strategies
- User Experience Focus – Prepare your workforce for change through effective communication and enablement
With 60+ years of combined industry experience across MSPs, integrators, and enterprise environments, our leadership team knows how to deliver value from day one.
Let’s Talk About Your Windows 10 Strategy
Whether you’re planning to upgrade, migrate, or extend the life of existing assets, Sense-IT can help you build a path forward that’s secure, sustainable, and outcome-focused.
Contact us today to arrange a no-obligation conversation with one of our Certified Presales Consultants
