Date Published: 8 Sep '25

October 14, 2025 — Microsoft pulls the plug on Windows 10.

That’s not a “maybe.” It’s locked in.

When the clock hits midnight:

• No security patches → Every new exploit is permanent.
  
• No support → No one at Microsoft will take your call.
  
• No compatibility → Software and vendors will start cutting ties.
  

If you’re running a business, that’s not just “old tech.” That’s a risk to revenue, security, and compliance.

The Latest as of September 2025

• Free Extended Security Updates (ESU): One extra year of updates if you link your PC to a Microsoft account via cloud backup or redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points. Otherwise, $30 per device.
  
• Business ESU Options: Multi-year ESUs available through October 2028 — but prices climb every year.
  
• Microsoft Account Required: No account, no ESU. One account can cover up to 10 devices.
  
• Browser Lifeline: Edge and WebView updates will continue until October 2028 — but that doesn’t secure your OS.
  
• Third-Party Support Vanishing: Apps and games (e.g., Final Fantasy XIV) already announcing end-of-support for Windows 10.
  
• SMB Reality Check: Roughly 65% of small businesses still have no migration plan in place — which means hardware shortages and cost spikes are coming.
  

Get a free ZaheZone compatibility check. We’ll tell you exactly which machines are ready, which need upgrades, and which need replacing.

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Why This Still Aren’t Just “Friendly Reminders”—It’s NOW or Never

• Security Threats Aren’t Wrapping Up
  Surface-level risks persist—but each month past October, vulnerabilities become critical targets.
  
• Compliance & Insurance Won’t Bend
  Outdated systems could cost more in fines, penalties, or operational disruption than proactive upgrades.
  
• Hardware Bottleneck Incoming
  Demand for Windows 11-ready machines is surging. The later you wait, the higher the cost and the longer the lead times. Early adopters win.
  
• ESU Is a Bridge—not the Destination
  It gives you one more year—that’s it. Use it to stage, not stall.

The ZaheZone Migration Advantage

Most businesses think “just upgrade the OS” — but ZaheZone turns the Windows 10 deadline into a controlled, strategic upgrade that protects productivity, compliance, and future growth.

Here’s how ZaheZone helps:

1. Microsoft Upgrade Guidance

• We handle the entire upgrade process — from Windows 10 to Windows 11 — with minimal downtime.
  
• We’ll ensure your devices meet the new hardware requirements or help you choose the right replacements.

2. ESU Setup Without the Hassle

• We register your devices for Extended Security Updates if you need extra time.
  
• We manage Microsoft account linking for maximum coverage.
  

3. Future-Proof Hardware & Setup

• Source Windows 11-ready and AI-enabled machines.
  
• Fully configure them so your team is ready from day one.
  

4. Staff Transition & Support

• Provide training so your team uses Windows 11 features effectively.
  
• Ongoing technical support to keep productivity high.

Your September Action Plan

1. Run Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool to see if your systems can run Windows 11.
   
2. Contact ZaheZone for full Microsoft migration support.
   
3. Take the IT Business Impact Quiz to find your upgrade readiness score.
   
4. Lock in any required hardware before prices and wait times spike
   

Start the Business Technology Scorecard or contact ZaheZone for one-on-one help.

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You can wait, scramble, and overspend… Or plan, migrate, and gain an advantage while your competitors are still in panic mode.