Microsoft has announced they will discontinue support for Windows 10 effective October 14, 2025. This will include ALL versions of Windows 10. Microsoft cites the significant advances in security in Windows 11 as the prevailing reason. Windows 10 is the most common operating system PCS has found in office evaluations. While the OS will likely still function, no support will be provided. Most importantly, the Windows Defender security system will no longer be supported in the Windows 10 OS version.
What happens to my PC when Windows 10 reaches the end of support date?
As of October 14, 2025, PCs running Windows 10 will still function, but Microsoft will no longer provide the following:
- Technical support
- Feature updates
- Security updates or fixes
While your Windows 10 PC will continue to function, it will be at greater risk for viruses and malware when Windows 10 reaches end of support.
Will my Windows 10 PC stop working?
No. Your PC will continue to work, but support for Windows will be discontinued. You will no longer receive security updates, and Microsoft will no longer be available to provide Windows 10 technical support.
What does this mean for my practice?
To remain HIPAA compliant, you will need to upgrade all your devices to Windows 11. Utilizing a non-supported operating system is a huge risk for your network and can result in data loss, breaches and damage to data.
Why is this a HIPAA issue?
HIPAA states that covered entities must make “reasonable attempts” to protect the security of patient information. While reasonable is not defined, it would be impossible to defend a breach of data related to a non-supported operating system. Significant fines for recent breach violations have been based on lack of updated and secure technology. Use of non-supported operating systems, residential class routers, and factory default firewalls have already been cited as no longer “reasonable”.
What options do I have for staying supported on a Windows operating system?
There are a few options for using a supported version of Windows:
- Installing Windows 11 on your current PC – If your PC meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11 and is eligible to upgrade directly to Windows 11, you might have already received a notification about upgrading. To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.Windows Update will tell you if your PC is ready to upgrade and provide instructions on how to install your free upgrade.
- New PC with Windows 11 – If your PC is not eligible, or if you want a new PC with Windows 11 pre-installed, you might want to start looking for a new device now.
- Extended Security Updates (ESU) program – If you need more time before moving to Windows 11, a one-year Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for $30 USD will help protect your Windows 10 device. For more information about the ESU program, see Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10.
How much does it cost to upgrade to Windows 11?
It’s free. But only Windows 10 PCs that are running Windows 10, version 22H2 and meet the minimum hardware specifications will be able to upgrade. To check if your PC is eligible for the free upgrade go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
What about my diagnostic devices running on Windows 10?
Manufacturers are or should be aware of this issue and should be taking steps to upgrade the OS on their devices. The manufacturer will decide on timing, pricing, or upgrades. Whatever their decisions, YOU must ensure ALL your devices are operating on a supported OS.
Will my Microsoft 365 apps be supported when Windows 10 reaches end of support?
Support for Microsoft 365 apps on Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025, when Windows 10 reaches end of support. Although these applications will continue to run on Windows 10, we strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11 to avoid performance and reliability issues with using those apps over time.
Is there a need to do this now?
We encourage everyone to take action sooner rather than later, as interactions between some of your existing software applications, and especially equipment, can require time to resolve.
What can I do with my old computer?
If you have are replacing a device, make sure that you take proper steps when discarding or recycling old devices. You should securely transfer any PHIto your new device and ensure that you completely erase and destroy any data on the old device.
You can read more about the Windows 10 operating system changes at https://www.microsoft.com/windows/end-of-support
If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to us at info@PracticePerformancePartners.com