These are the end dates for Windows 10 and Windows 11

Windows 10 is approaching the twilight of its life cycle, with support ceasing for most users on October 14, 2025. As this date looms, many are left pondering the alternatives Microsoft has in store and the timelines associated with them.

Windows 10 version 22H2 will officially reach its end-of-life on the same date, marking the conclusion of extended support for the 2015 LTSB variant (version 1507/RTM). This long-term servicing branch was designed for stability in edge applications, but as it phases out after a decade, ordinary users find themselves at a crossroads regarding their next operating system. The transition to Windows 11 is gaining momentum, yet a significant migration wave is still on the horizon.

For those still clinging to older versions, the urgency is palpable. Windows 10 version 21H2 has already reached its end-of-life as of June 11, 2024, rendering these systems increasingly vulnerable. Earlier iterations have long surpassed their expiration dates, leaving users in a precarious position.

Extended Security Updates: an expensive alternative

In response to the need for more time, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for organizations transitioning to Windows 11. Individual consumers can secure up to one additional year of support for , while organizations can extend their support for up to three years at progressively higher costs.

• The Microsoft Volume Licensing Program starts at per device in the first year.
• This fee escalates to 2 in the second year and reaches 4 in the third year.

Ultimately, a three-year ESU plan could cost 7 per PC—funds that might be better allocated towards a timely upgrade instead.

Exceptions to the rule

Microsoft’s approach to Windows 10 is deliberate. Typically, versions such as Enterprise, Education, IoT Enterprise, and Enterprise multi-session receive extended support. However, this does not apply to Windows 10 22H2, underscoring Microsoft’s intent to retire the operating system. Despite appeals from various organizations urging Microsoft to reconsider, many PCs lack the necessary hardware capabilities to support Windows 11, potentially leading to a significant increase in e-waste.

The sole exception is Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, which will remain supported until January 13, 2032. However, this version is not designed for standard client use and often features limited driver support and unresolved software bugs.

Windows 11: the logical successor?

Transitioning to Windows 11 appears to be the most logical next step, but the urgency remains. The initial version of Windows 11 (21H2) has already reached its end-of-life, while current versions have the following support timelines:

• Windows 11 22H2: until October 8, 2024
• Windows 11 23H2: until November 11, 2025
• Windows 11 24H2: until October 13, 2026

With Extended Security Updates, users can potentially utilize Windows 11 until 2029. For enterprise users, Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise offers support until October 12, 2027, while the IoT Enterprise LTSC 2024 variant enjoys security updates until October 10, 2034.

Faster upgrade cycle ahead

The support timelines clearly indicate that if Windows 11 24H2 is indeed the final major version, the subsequent transition to a new Windows system will necessitate a much quicker pace than users have been accustomed to. Both individuals and organizations would be prudent to incorporate these shorter cycles into their strategic planning.

For clarity, the following Windows releases are currently supported (excluding the only Windows 11 version that is no longer supported):