Microsoft Windows 10 Support Is Ending

Here’s What You Need to Do Now Before The Deadline

The clock is ticking. Microsoft has officially announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. That means less than five months remain before millions of computers become unsupported and vulnerable. We've already helped clients across Meridian and the greater Treasure Valley prepare for previous operating system transitions, and we’re gearing up to do it again.

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a Microsoft lifecycle deadline cause confusion and panic. When Windows 7 support ended in 2020, a lot of people found themselves scrambling for last-minute upgrades. The result? Frustration, lost data, security breaches, and in many cases—unexpected costs. We don’t want that to happen to you. Let’s walk through what the Windows 10 end-of-support means and how you can plan with confidence.

What Does “End of Support” Actually Mean for Microsoft Windows?

Microsoft provides two types of support for its operating systems: mainstream and extended. Mainstream support for Windows 10 ended back in 2020, which means users stopped receiving feature updates. But critical security updates, bug fixes, and technical support have continued under extended support—until now.

Once October 14, 2025 rolls around, Microsoft will stop issuing:

• Security patches

• Performance updates

• Compatibility support for new software

• Technical assistance of any kind
  

From that date forward, Windows 10 will still run on your computer—but it will do so without a safety net. No more protection against new threats, no guarantee your apps will keep working properly, and no way to get help from Microsoft if something breaks.

That’s the real danger: running outdated software in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

Why This Matters—Even If Your Computer Still Works

We hear this all the time: “But my PC is running just fine!” And while that may be true today, that peace of mind disappears the moment a cybercriminal exploits a vulnerability that no longer gets patched. Once support ends, even trusted software becomes a potential liability. Browsers, antivirus programs, productivity tools—they all rely on a secure operating system underneath.

Without updates, your system becomes easy prey for:

• Ransomware attacks

• Phishing-based exploits

• Network infiltration

• Data corruption or theft
  

And if you’re running a business—especially one that deals with client data, healthcare information, or payment processing—you could be violating compliance requirements without realizing it.

What About Extended Security Updates (ESUs)?

Microsoft has announced that Extended Security Updates (ESUs) will be available for Windows 10—but at a cost. This service is primarily intended for enterprise and education customers and won’t be free. It’s designed to give larger organizations more time to transition, not to provide a long-term solution for everyday users.

For most home users and small businesses, upgrading to Windows 11 is the smarter long-term move—and the sooner, the better.

Can You Upgrade to Windows 11?

The answer depends on your current hardware. Windows 11 introduced stricter system requirements than its predecessor. These include:

• A compatible 64-bit processor (1GHz or faster, with 2 or more cores)

• 4GB of RAM (though 8GB or more is better)

• 64GB of storage

• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability

• TPM version 2.0
  

If your computer doesn’t meet these requirements, it won’t be eligible for a direct upgrade. In those cases, you have two options:

• Replace the device entirely with a Windows 11-ready machine

• Continue using Windows 10 and accept the risk—or invest in costly ESUs
  

We can help you assess your hardware and guide you toward the best choice. Many of our customers are surprised to learn that their current system does support Windows 11 with just a few minor upgrades.

Why Start Planning Now?

Five months away, October 2025 might seem like a distant deadline. But upgrading is rarely as simple as clicking a button—especially if you’re managing multiple machines or relying on your devices for daily business operations. Planning now gives you time to:

• Budget for hardware upgrades or replacements

• Back up important files before migrating

• Evaluate and update software licenses

• Avoid last-minute bottlenecks or installation delays

• Waiting until the last minute can lead to data loss, rushed decisions, and limited availability of trusted technicians (yes, our calendars fill up fast during major tech transitions).
  

How We Can Help

At 208Geek, we’ve been helping local homeowners and small business owners navigate tech transitions for over a decade. We don’t just upgrade your system and walk away—we build custom upgrade paths designed around your needs and budget.

Here’s how we can support you through this Windows 10 transition:

System Evaluation

We’ll inspect your existing machine to determine if it’s compatible with Windows 11. If not, we’ll help you explore affordable upgrade options or recommend replacement systems that make sense for how you use your technology.

Secure Data Backup

Before any upgrade, we always perform a full backup of your files, settings, and important data. That way, nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

Professional Upgrade Installation

We handle the actual Windows 11 installation, driver updates, and configuration to get your system running smoothly again—no error messages, no guesswork.

Legacy Software Compatibility Support

Worried about older apps? We can help test and configure compatibility settings or offer virtualization options so you can continue using legacy programs safely.

Ongoing Maintenance and IT Support

Once your system is upgraded, we can continue to offer remote and onsite IT support to help you troubleshoot, secure, and optimize your tech.

Don’t Delay

We’ve seen firsthand how disruptive operating system transitions can be when people wait too long to prepare. The end of Windows 10 support is not just a tech news headline—it’s a real deadline with real consequences. Don’t assume your machine will magically handle the change on its own.

Let’s get proactive together. Whether you want to upgrade one computer or an entire office, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Call us today or visit our shop in Meridian to schedule a system evaluation and start planning—before Windows 10 becomes history.

About 208Geek in Meridian, Idaho (And Now Also in Moscow, Idaho)

Owner/Operator Jacob Van Vliet began building and repairing computer systems for friends and family out of his home in 2001. The increasing demand for computer repair led to the opening of 208Geek in the Fall of 2005, with the vision of providing outstanding service and peace of mind. Jacob, along with his team, including his wife, Brittany, is committed to delivering unparalleled, friendly, and professional service with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. In 2024, son, Johnny, joined the team and helped expand into Moscow, where he serves the computer and IT-related needs of students and staff at the University of Idaho. The 208Geek team has been named “Idaho’s Best” for IT and computer repair for the past six consecutive years. We would love the opportunity to work with you so we can show you why!