Windows 10 Is Retiring Soon – Here’s What That Means for Your Shop Floor
To be straight with you, Microsoft is pulling the plug on free support for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. Your PCs won’t just quit working on that date, but they will stop getting the regular tune-ups like security patches and updates that keep them running smooth and safe.
I know the production floor doesn’t stop for something like an “operating system lifecycle,” but here’s why this change matters more than most folks think.
Why It Matters for Manufacturers
1. Security holes you can drive a forklift through
Once updates stop, hackers and ransomware crews start circling. In manufacturing, it’s not just email that’s at risk. It’s your ERP system, machine controllers, supplier data, and customer drawings. A breach can idle machines faster than a blown spindle bearing.
2. Software that stops playing nice
ERP/MRP vendors, CAD/CAM tools, even the software that runs your inspection equipment all keep moving forward. After Windows 10’s end of life, some tools will slow down, misbehave, or quit working altogether. That’s downtime you can’t afford.
3. Compliance headaches
If you’ve got CMMC, NIST, ISO, or OEM security requirements, running unsupported Windows could knock you out of compliance. That’s not just a paperwork problem. It can put contracts at risk.
Your Options Without Grinding Production to a Halt
If your current PCs don’t meet Windows 11’s stricter hardware requirements, here’s what you can do:
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Buy new, but shop smart
Get hardware that’s Windows 11-ready and built to last. Think of it like replacing an old press before it fails mid-job. -
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft is offering one more year of paid security updates. It’s a band-aid, not a cure, but it buys time to plan upgrades without rushing. -
Switch to Linux
A bigger cultural shift and not for every shop, but it’s an option for certain workstations. -
Ignore it (not recommended)
That’s like running a CNC with no oil. You will pay for it eventually.
Before You Make a Move
No matter what path you take, back up your critical files before you touch anything. That means ERP databases, machine programs, and customer drawings.
How We’re Helping Local Shops
We’ve been walking Metro Detroit manufacturers through this transition with minimal downtime by:
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Checking which machines are upgrade-ready
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Planning rollouts around production schedules
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Keeping ERP, shop floor controls, and office systems in sync
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Making sure compliance stays intact
If you want to skip the headaches and get a straight answer on your best option, give us a call for a free 10-minute discovery chat. We’ll map out your safest, most cost-effective path forward.
📞 248-264-4680 – One call and you can get back to running your plant instead of worrying about Windows.
