With end-of-support for Windows 10 less than eight months away, JB Hi-Fi Education explains the possible impacts on schools still using this system and how to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Microsoft support for Windows 10 is ending on 14 October 2025, but what does it mean for schools that are currently using this system?
It means devices still running on this operating system, or OS, will no longer receive security and feature updates. From October 2025 onwards, it will increasingly affect schools’ daily operations and vulnerability unless they transition to Windows 11.
How will Windows 10 end-of-support impact schools?
When Windows 10 reaches end of service in October 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide bug fixes for issues, security fixes for vulnerabilities, time zone updates, or technical support.
After October 14, PCs still operating on Windows 10 will continue functioning, but will gradually become less secure, says JB Hi-Fi Education Product and Data Integrity Manager, Mr Matt Nurthen.
“Education institutions that do not transition to Windows 11 prior to October 14 will be increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks as Microsoft will stop providing bug fixing or patches,” he says.
Additionally, software compatibility will be affected. Newly released updates of programs, such as M365, will no longer be supported by Windows 10 as the operating system will no longer meet the system requirements for these applications.
“Software incompatibility can cause downtime, disrupting student learning and classroom activities, as it can prevent educators from accessing essential applications,” Mr Nurthen says.
What are the benefits of Windows 11?
Windows 11 is built on the strengths and the intuitive design of Windows 10 with enhanced features to help every learner achieve their best.
With security in mind, Microsoft has described Windows 11 as the most secure Windows yet “by default and by design”1. It offers more advanced security features such as hardware-based TPM 2.0 protection, enhanced authentication, default virtualisation-based security and more.
According to Microsoft, security incidents have dropped by 62 per cent on Windows 112.
JB Hi-Fi Education notes that enhanced operating system security helps schools protect data and personal information, which provide the peace of mind required to focus on education outcomes.
“With powerful protection, Windows 11 will continue receiving the latest security updates, which will reduce the vulnerability of organisations to cyber threats,” Mr Nurthen says.
Optimised performance is another plus of Windows 11 with better responsiveness, intuitive navigation and compatibility with 99.7 per cent of applications3.
Features such as improved response time in sleep mode, multiple desktops, snap layouts and many other functions contribute to deliver a more efficient experience on Windows 11.
Lastly, Windows 11 has the capability to integrate AI and Copilot into its system, giving schools the option to offer personalised learning experiences. Designed for a new era of education, Windows 11 and Copilot empowers students with advanced resources for learning, collaboration, and creativity, all within a secure and user-friendly environment.
Start planning to upgrade to Windows 11
JB Hi-Fi Education says schools can easily transition to Windows 11 if they put some key steps in place.
“First, consider the eligibility of devices. Our team are recommending schools and IT teams start with an audit of their devices and hardware to prepare accordingly. While October seems far away, planning upgrades early will allow schools to minimise interruptions,” Mr Nurthen says.
“Secondly, upgrade eligible PCs to Windows 11. Thirdly, refresh outdated devices to new PCs. With our extensive expertise in Education, JB Hi-Fi Education can help schools find the right Windows 11 devices that will integrate seamlessly to their curriculum.”
The JB Hi-Fi Education team also provides a Buyback program for those schools upgrading faculty technology. The Buyback program supports a circular economy which extends the life of electronic devices, through repair, refurbishment, reuse and recycling. Schools can extract residual value from their old devices and receive a credit on their JB Hi-Fi Education account to offset the cost of their technology upgrades.
“Buyback programs can assist to simplify the process of transitioning to Windows 11 while reducing total ownership costs and recovering value from old devices,” Mr Nurthen says.
As a final step, he suggests raising awareness among the school’s community of the need to upgrade.
“Inform your employees, educators and parents about the school’s transition plan and the impacts the planned end-of-support can have on their devices and usage,” he says.
Want more information?
For more information on the impact of the Windows 10 end-of-support on education institutions, or on upgrading to Windows 11, reach out to JB Hi-Fi Education at 1300 752 746 or educationjbhifi.com.au.
References
- Source Microsoft: How to prepare for Windows EOS by moving to Windows 11 today, Oct 2024 https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2024/10/31/how-to-prepare-for-windows-10-end-of-support-by-moving-to-windows-11-today/
- Source Microsoft – Windows 11 Survey Report. Techaisle LLC, September 2024. Commissioned by Microsoft. Windows 11 results are in comparison with Windows 10 devices.
- Source Microsoft – Microsoft App Assure program data from October 2018 to February 2022
