Windows 10 Support and Upgrades: What You Need to Know

With Microsoft touting the latest iteration of its operating system, Windows 11, many are still considering options on whether to make the jump from Windows 10. Need I say more, the transition has not gone very well, especially for people who own older hardware or some critical software that doesn’t yet support this new OS. In this blog post, we will describe the status regarding Windows 10 support, the consequences of moving on to Windows 11, and how to manage these changes effectively. At, we make it happen by ensuring a smooth transition and providing expert support tailored to your needs.

Windows 10 Support Timeline

Microsoft has extended the deadline for critical update of Windows 10 until 2025, changing a deadline that was previously set to end in August 2024. This is good news for many who had not yet made the shift to Windows 11. However, after this date, Windows 10 will not be entitled to free critical updates, thus leaving the system uncovered against security vulnerabilities.

The Cost of Further Windows 10 Support

Microsoft surprised all by announcing that Windows 10 would be the first-ever iteration to require a paid subscription for continued updates beyond its stipulated extended support deadline. Such a move marks a big turn away from the traditional model for updates and may come to many as a shocking blow. The cost of this extended support will be very expensive, running into hundreds if not thousands of pounds per year, depending on the size and details of the implementation.

Why Many Are Reluctant to Upgrade to Windows 11

There are several reasons that most people are not at an easy pace to switch over to Windows 11:

Hardware Compatibility:

Windows 11 is going to be more demanding in terms of hardware performance than its predecessor. Many older machines, especially those in large enterprises, do not meet these needs. Upgrading any such system might involve substantial costs, not only in terms of licensing fees but also hardware upgrade or replacement.

Software Compatibility:

For most businesses, and especially specialized ones like architecture, software compatibility is a major concern. For instance, AutoCAD or a myriad of other similar industry-specific applications still are unsupported for Windows 11, hence quite difficult for professionals to go with a seamless upgrade without getting a system disruptor upgraded.

Transition Cost:

It is not cost-effective to upgrade the entire fleet of machines and make all software compliant. For large organizations, this will involve investment in new hardware, retraining of workers, and fixing emerging issues that crop up during the switch.

Machines Ship with Downgraded to Windows 10 On Them

In this case, downgrading could be applied to the new machine in order to run Windows 10 if it comes pre-installed with Windows 11, for those who may find themselves in a similar situation. Here is how it works in a nutshell.

Checking the Downgrade Rights:

First and foremost, it is essential to check whether a new machine’s license allows you to downgrade. This usually happens in the case of devices bought from vendors who allow downgrade rights.

Back up your data:

Ensure that all important data is backed up before starting the process.

Create Windows Installation Media:

Download the installation media of Windows 10 from Microsoft’s website and create a bootable USB drive.

Perform a Clean Install:

Boot from the USB drive and follow the installation process to perform a clean install of Windows 10.

Install Drivers and Updates:

All drivers and updates should be upgraded to keep the system smooth after installation.

Conclusion

While Microsoft is pushing and pushing for Windows 11, any individual or institution has to decide on the pros against the challenges of the upgrade. With an extension to August 2025 of shell life in Windows 10 and then beginning the paid updates, there still is much time to decide rightly. Downgrading from Windows 11 on new hardware is feasible if one needs to adhere to Windows 10 at least for some time, provided it has meticulous planning and execution.

In case further assistance on downgrading or managing the Windows environment is needed, do not hesitate to ask. We stand ready to help you go through these transitions and make sure all your systems are secure and functional.