TL;DROn October 14, 2025, Microsoft will retire Windows 10—no more security updates, no more bug fixes, and increasing risk for businesses still running the platform. If you haven’t started planning your move to Windows 11 (or an alternative), now’s the time. Below, we tackle your most pressing Windows 10 questions and lay out a clear, five-step migration roadmap so you can upgrade confidently and with minimal downtime.
Top Windows 10 FAQs
1. What happens when Microsoft stops releasing patches?
- No more security fixes. You’re exposed to new vulnerabilities the moment they’re discovered.
- Compliance gaps. Industries governed by HIPAA, PCI or other regulations will view an unsupported OS as a risk.
- Rising downtime costs. Unpatched exploits lead to service interruptions—and each hour offline can cost a small business thousands.
2. Will my legacy apps still run on Windows 11?
- Compatibility checks: Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check or our in-house tooling to scan for unsupported applications.
- Workarounds & virtualization: For critical, legacy software, consider Windows 11’s built-in IE mode or a lightweight VM.
- Vendor updates: Many ISVs have already released Windows 11–certified versions—plan to update wherever possible.
3. How long does the migration take?
- Simple environments (≤50 devices): 4–6 weeks from assessment to hyper-care wrap-up.
- Complex setups (100+ devices, custom apps): 8–12 weeks—due to deeper testing, phased rollouts, and user training.
- Key factors: Number of users, custom software, network topology, and required downtime windows.
4. What hardware requirements matter?
- Minimum specs: 1 GHz CPU with 2 cores, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, UEFI + Secure Boot, TPM 2.0.
- Performance boost: Machines meeting Windows 11 “Recommended” specs (8 GB RAM, SSD, newer CPU) deliver faster boot and app load times.
5. How do I train my team on the new OS?
- Early adopters: Spin up a pilot group of power users to test features and generate internal champions.
- Microlearning: Short, focused video tutorials on key changes (Start menu, Settings layout, Snap Layouts).
- Hands-on workshops: Host 30–60 minute lunch-and-learn sessions in the weeks leading up to each wave.
Your 5-Step Windows 10 Migration Roadmap
- Assessment & Planning
- Inventory all devices, apps, and user groups
- Identify blockers (legacy apps, hardware gaps)
- Build a phased timeline with milestone dates
- Pilot Deployment
- Choose a representative 5–10% pilot group
- Test critical applications, network shares, printers
- Gather feedback & adjust your plan
- Phased Rollout
- Group users by department, location, or risk profile
- Schedule upgrades in waves to avoid mass disruption
- Keep clear communication on “what, when, how”
- Training & Support
- Deliver micro-learning modules & quick-start guides
- Offer office hours/hotline during each wave
- Track user issues and resolve them in real time
- Post-Migration Hyper-Care
- Monitor system health, security alerts, and helpdesk tickets
- Schedule a 30-day “tune-up” to address lingering issues
- Document lessons learned and update your internal playbook
Ready to Move Off Windows 10?
Waiting until the last minute invites risk. Whether you’re a 10-person shop or a 500-device enterprise, Stamm Technologies can tailor your migration for speed, security, and minimal user impact.
Next Steps:
- 👉 Schedule a free readiness assessment: We’ll audit your environment and deliver a custom migration plan.
- 👉 Contact us with any questions—our local Milwaukee team is standing by.
Let’s make your Windows 10 exit smooth, secure, and stress-free. Drop us a line or click the link below to get started!