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August 28, 2025

Windows 10 Support is Ending

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. To keep UW-owned devices secure and connected, you should upgrade to Windows 11 or, if you cannot upgrade, request an Extended Security Update (ESU).

Upgrade to Windows 11 or Request an ESU for UW-owned Devices

If your computer is managed by departmental IT or a local IT group, they will handle this transition. Contact your IT support team if you have questions.

If you manage your own UW-owned computer, follow the steps below.

Step 1: Check if your device is running Windows 10

  • Click the Start Menu (Windows icon in the lower left corner)
  • Select Settings
  • Go to System > About
  • Look under “Windows specifications” to see your version

Step 2: Upgrade Eligible Devices to Windows 11

  • Click the Start Menu (Windows icon in the lower left corner)
  • Open Settings
  • Go to Update & Security > Windows Update
  • If your device is eligible, you’ll see an option to upgrade to Windows 11. Follow the prompts to install

Step 3: Request an ESU if your device cannot upgrade

  • The Extended Security Update (ESU) program is a temporary, one-year solution that provides limited critical security updates for Windows 10 while you work to upgrade or procure a new device
  • To request an ESU license, fill out the ESU Request Form
  • As part of the request, you’ll be asked to:
    • Confirm CrowdStrike Falcon is installed on your device
      • CrowdStrike Falcon is mandatory for all Windows devices requiring an ESU
    • Outline a replacement plan for the computer (template provided in the ESU Request Form)
    • Have your supervisor acknowledge responsibility for the device

UW Medicine has its own process for Windows 10 upgrades and ESU requests. You DO NOT need to take any action. They will contact you if this changes.

Why Upgrading Matters

When Microsoft ends support, Windows 10 computers will stop receiving security updates. Unsupported systems are vulnerable to attacks, may lose access to UW networks, and often can’t run required research or teaching software. Moving to a supported operating system ensures trusted solutions for the UW community, safeguards research and teaching that have global impact, and helps us maintain the secure, reliable environment you expect from UW-IT.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

In the Settings app on your Windows device, select System > About > Windows specifications.

Extended Security Updates (ESUs) are a temporary option from Microsoft that provide limited security updates for Windows 10 after support ends on October 14, 2025.

ESUs do not include new features or full updates, and some apps may still stop working on Windows 10. This option should only be used as a short-term bridge while you make plans to upgrade to Windows 11 or procure a new device.

Upgrade to Windows 11 if your device is eligible.
If you cannot upgrade, purchase and install an ESU directly from Microsoft.

Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After that date, Windows 10 computers will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support.

    • Your computer will become more vulnerable to security risks.
    • You may lose access to UW networks and services, possibly without warning, if unpatched vulnerabilities threaten University resources.
    • You could lose access to coursework, research tools, teaching resources, or administrative systems.

Yes. UW Medicine has its own process for handling Windows 10 devices. You DO NOT need to take any action. They will contact you if this changes. Devices will be updated or replaced as part of an organization-wide project.