Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will no longer be supported as of October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes.
This means that systems running Windows 10 will be non-compliant with the Security of Connected Devices Standard and become increasingly vulnerable to security threats. All systems running Windows 10 must be addressed before October 14, 2025, to avoid security and operational risks.
End-of-support OSes are not allowed on the HSVPN; any Windows 10 system not mitigated through of one of the three options below will not be allowed on the HSVPN after October 14, 2025.
** EN-IT staff will reach out to owners/users of identified at-risk devices regarding mitigation strategies and solutions. BME, CS, and MSE departments will continue to follow their individual workflow processes - You can also request assistance via ENGR-IT@virginia.edu
Available Risk Mitigation Strategies
1) Upgrade to Windows 11: Highly recommended for most users and systems.
- Windows 11 provides continued support, improved security, and modern features.
- Ensure hardware compatibility before upgrading.
2) Purchase Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU): Minimally Viable Solution - Not Recommended
- For systems that cannot yet be migrated (e.g., legacy applications or hardware dependencies), Microsoft will offer paid Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 through October 2028.
- Requires Windows 10 version 22H2.
- ESUs provide critical and important security patches only.
- Not fully supported and no guarantee of ongoing compatibility or viability for intended use.
3) Utilize Windows 10 LTSC 2021 (21H2)
- The LTSC (long-term servicing channel) edition will be fully supported by Microsoft until January 12, 2027.
- ESUs will not be available for this edition after its end-of-support date.
- According to Microsoft’s design, LTSC is intended for special-purpose devices or situations, not for general-purpose devices or workstations.
For more information regarding Windows 10 End of Support, please contact an EN-IT staff member via email to Engr-IT@virginia.edu or visit https://security.virginia.edu/windows10end
**Please note that the BME, CS, and MSE departments will continue to follow their individual workflow processes. For questions or clarification regarding these procedures, kindly reach out directly to the respective department staff.