As the countdown to the end of Windows 10 support ticks away, businesses worldwide are bracing for a significant shift in their IT operations. Microsoft has announced that on 14th October 2025, it will discontinue support for the widely-used operating system, marking the conclusion of an era for its over one billion users, many of whom remain loyal despite the presence of its successor, Windows 11, since 2021.
The sunsetting of Windows 10 and the shift towards Windows 11 is anticipated to bring various transformations for businesses, both beneficial and challenging. Microsoft’s Windows 11 promises improved security features, optimised performance, and an overall streamlined user experience. However, the looming October deadline also presents risks for businesses opting to remain on the legacy system. According to reports, over half of the current market is still reliant on Windows 10, leading to concerns regarding security vulnerabilities as the operating system will no longer receive free updates post-deadline.
Steve Haskew, who leads the implementation of the Corporate Social Responsibility strategy at Circular Computing, emphasised the importance of assessing existing IT networks. "The first step is to review your IT networks and verify whether your devices can support Windows 11," Haskew stated. Companies are advised to utilise Microsoft’s free PC Health Check tool to evaluate hardware compliance with Windows 11 requirements, such as an Intel 8th-generation processor and TPM 2.0 support. For businesses whose equipment is incompatible, the financial implications could be significant, especially considering that nearly one in five laptops reportedly do not meet the necessary specifications for an upgrade.
In light of potential economic and environmental concerns related to e-waste—caused by obsolete hardware—businesses are urged to explore alternatives to Windows 11. Although Microsoft dominates the PC software market, options such as Linux and Google's OS Flex present viable pathways for firms unwilling or unable to transition to the new operating system. The latter transforms older Windows devices into cloud-managed systems akin to Chromebooks, extending their operational lifespan.
Moreover, companies are encouraged to back up sensitive data before making significant changes in their operating systems to avoid data loss during the transition. The report highlights an eco-friendly approach known as Remanufacturing as a Service (RaaS), which enables businesses to upgrade to devices that offer performance equal to or exceeding new models—with the added benefit of economic savings and a reduced carbon footprint. RaaS remanufactured laptops can be as much as 70% less costly than brand-new devices, achieving an estimated reduction of 316 kg of carbon emissions per laptop.
As businesses contemplate the end of Windows 10, Microsoft is implementing support measures to facilitate the transition. Following initial announcements in June 2021 regarding the termination of support, the technology giant recently unveiled an option for current Windows 10 users to extend their security updates for an additional year at a cost of $30 (£23).
The timing of the Windows 10 phase-out coincides with International E-waste Day, urging a reflection on the pervasive disposable tech culture. Experts suggest using this transition period to leverage opportunities in the circular economy, including participation in retailer outreach, charitable donations, and remanufacturing efforts.
As the deadline approaches, businesses are advised to strategically prepare for the changes that may arise following Windows 10's discontinuation, ensuring they not only adapt to new technology but also address the underlying economic and environmental challenges associated with such an evolution in IT infrastructure.
Source: Noah Wire Services