End of Windows 10 support: extension, risks and solutions for businesses
The countdown is on: on October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. In concrete terms, this means the end of free security updates for millions of users, both individuals and professionals. A decision that not only raises questions, but is also a cause for concern for businesses that have not yet planned their migration.
Good news, however: Microsoft has announced a one-year extension to critical updates, thanks to the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. But beware: this temporary solution comes with significant limitations, and can in no way replace a genuine migration strategy.
In this article, we take a look at the conditions for this extension, the risks for organizations that are slow to migrate, and above all the solutions that Darest offers to support companies in this major challenge.
Free extension under strict conditions
Microsoft has confirmed that certain devices running Windows 10 will be able to benefit from security updates after October 2025. This extension via the ESU program is an exceptional and temporary measure.
However, it is based on specific conditions:
- The computer must be linked to a Microsoft account
- Registration must be performed via the Windows Backup application
- Only critical and important security updates will be provided, not functional upgrades.
For businesses, these constraints raise a number of issues: compatibility of environments, large-scale account management, integration into existing security policies... All of which make this solution unrealistic in a professional context.
A paid alternative to save time
If the conditions of the free program cannot be met, Microsoft also offers a paid ESU program. This extends the availability of critical updates for a further three years, with progressive pricing: CHF 75 plus VAT for the first year, CHF 150 for the second and CHF 300 for the third. This increase in cost reflects Microsoft's incentive to encourage rapid migration to Windows 11. For companies unable to complete their transition on time, these licenses represent a temporary option that Darest can set up and administer, in order to maintain an essential level of security until the migration is complete.
The risks of delayed migration
There are several risks in relying solely on this extension:
- Exposure to cyber attacks: unpatched flaws after 2026 will leave systems vulnerable
- Loss of software compatibility: some business applications will stop working properly on Windows 10
- Impact on compliance: security and data protection standards may no longer be respected
- Long-term cost: extending the life of an obsolete system often ends up costing more than a planned migration.
The extension should therefore be seen as a grace period to prepare the transition in earnest, and not as a lasting solution.
Darest: transforming a constraint into an opportunity
At Darest, we understand that each organization has its own specific challenges: size of installed base, regulatory constraints, critical software, continuity of service. That's why we offer a proven methodology to help you migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
Our approach includes :
- Compatibility audit: analysis of your workstations, applications and infrastructure to identify risks and priorities
- Progressive planning: migration in phases, to limit interruptions and secure each stage.
- Appropriate hardware renewal: modern, high-performance workstations that comply with Windows 11 requirements and are "IA-ready
- Secure deployment: configuration, staging and testing for a smooth transition
- Training and support: user support for smooth, efficient adoption
- Guaranteed compliance: compliance with safety standards and solutions for the certified destruction of old equipment
Anticipating today for tomorrow's security
The end of Windows 10 support marks a crucial milestone for all businesses. Microsoft's proposed extension offers a little respite, but only pushes back the deadline.
By planning now, you can turn this constraint into a modernization opportunity: improving performance, strengthening security, adopting tools adapted to new uses, and preparing for the integration of emerging technologies like AI.
With Darest, you benefit from a trusted partner to secure, modernize and optimize your IT environments.