Windows 10 Support Has Ended: What Midlothian Businesses Should Do Now
Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. The computers didn't stop working that day, which is exactly why many small offices, ministries and home businesses around Midlothian, Waxahachie and the rest of Ellis County are still running it. But "still turns on" and "still safe to run your business on" are two different things.
This post explains what end of support actually means, which options you have, and a simple plan to get every computer in your office onto solid ground.
What "end of support" really means
When Microsoft ends support for a version of Windows, it stops releasing regular security updates, bug fixes and technical support for it. New security holes keep being found, but on an unsupported PC they stay open. Over time, newer software and devices may also stop supporting Windows 10.
For a small business or church office, that matters because one infected computer can expose email, financial records, donor or customer information, and every other computer on the same network. A firewall helps (see our post What is a Firewall, and Why Does It Matter?), but it is not a substitute for an operating system that still receives security patches.
Your three options
1. Upgrade the PC to Windows 11
Many computers bought in the last several years can be upgraded to Windows 11. Microsoft publishes the hardware requirements, and the PC Health Check app will tell you whether a specific computer qualifies. An in-place upgrade usually keeps your files and programs, but always back up first.
2. Replace computers that can't upgrade
Older computers often fail the Windows 11 requirements. If a machine is already slow, out of warranty or needs repairs, replacing it is often the better long-term choice. Our post 5 Best Practices for Buying Technology for Employees covers what to look for.
3. Buy time with Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers a paid Extended Security Updates program for Windows 10. For organizations, it is sold one year at a time, for up to three years, and the price goes up each year. If you join in a later year, you also pay for the years you missed. ESU only delivers critical and important security fixes. It is a bridge to Windows 11, not a long-term plan. Microsoft's separate consumer ESU option is for personal devices, not business use.
A simple plan for your office
Make a list. Write down every computer: who uses it, its age, and whether it runs Windows 10 or Windows 11. Don't forget the front-desk PC, the computer that runs the sound or video system at church, and anything in a back room that "just runs."
Check upgrade eligibility. Run PC Health Check on each Windows 10 computer and note which ones can move to Windows 11.
Back up before you change anything. Make sure important files are backed up somewhere other than the computer itself. See Time and Money: Save It by Backing Up.
Check your software. Confirm your accounting, point-of-sale, church management and printer software supports Windows 11 before upgrading.
Upgrade, replace or enroll. Upgrade the eligible PCs, budget for replacements, and enroll any computer you can't retire yet in ESU so it keeps getting security fixes in the meantime.
Keep everything patched. After the move, keep Windows and your applications updated. A managed patch process makes this automatic.
Don't forget servers and other old systems
Windows 10 isn't the only thing that ages out. Older Windows Server versions, network equipment and firewalls also reach end of life. While you're making your list, include the server closet. Our network support and cybersecurity services can help you check what's still supported.
What if an old computer dies during the upgrade?
Hard drives in older PCs fail, sometimes right when you start moving data. If a drive stops working or files go missing, stop using it and contact GTS Data Recovery. Continuing to run a failing drive can make recovery harder.
How Gill Tech Services can help
Gill Tech Services is a local IT company at 560 Kirk Road in Midlothian. Tony and Donna Gill run the company, and Tony has supported small businesses and churches across North Texas with more than 29 years of experience in IT. We can inventory your computers, tell you which ones can upgrade, handle the upgrades and backups, and keep your systems patched afterward through our managed IT services. Learn more about our IT services in Midlothian, TX.
FAQ
Will my Windows 10 computer stop working?
No. It will keep running, but without regular security updates it becomes more exposed to new threats over time.
Can every Windows 10 PC upgrade to Windows 11?
No. Windows 11 has minimum hardware requirements. Microsoft's PC Health Check app shows whether a specific computer qualifies.
Is Extended Security Updates worth it?
It can be a reasonable short-term bridge for a computer you can't replace yet. It costs more each year and only covers security fixes, so plan to move to Windows 11.
Do I need to back up before upgrading?
Yes. Back up important files to a separate location before any upgrade or computer replacement.
Schedule a free consultation
Not sure where your computers stand? Call 214-817-8060 or email helpdesk@gilltechsvcs.net to schedule a free consultation. We're open Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
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