With the Windows 10 End of Life (EOL) approaching on October 14, 2025, MSPs have a significant opportunity to engage clients in hardware upgrades and long-term IT planning. The sunsetting of updates and security patches for Windows 10 will pose serious risks.
This is especially true as many existing machines will not meet the stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11, such as needing an 8th-generation Intel processor and TPM 2.0. This makes hardware refreshes essential for many businesses.
Why Start Planning Now?
- Proactive Security: Without updates, Windows 10 devices become vulnerable, creating a clear security issue.
- Hardware Constraints: Due to Windows 11’s requirements, many older machines won’t be eligible for a simple OS upgrade, forcing a full hardware replacement. This aligns with the typical 4- to 5-year refresh cycle, especially following the surge in device purchases during the pandemic.
- Prevent Last-minute Rushes: MSPs should start conversations now to prevent all clients requesting upgrades close to the EOL deadline. Early planning helps spread out costs and avoids last-minute bottlenecks.
Hardware Refresh Cycle and Planning
Many clients are unaware of the hardware requirements or the need to upgrade. Educating them early on the risks and benefits allows MSPs to stagger upgrades over time, easing the financial impact. Additionally, MSPs should consider client-specific needs, such as whether AI capabilities are necessary, as newer hardware will offer more AI-driven features.
How MSPs Can Explain Windows 10 EOL and Hardware Refreshes to Clients
MSPs can approach the conversation with clients by emphasizing the risks and gradual cost implications of not upgrading:
- Security Risks: Explain that after the EOL, Windows 10 will no longer receive security patches, leaving systems exposed to cyber threats. MSPs should stress how this could affect cyber insurance compliance — outdated software could void coverage.
- Cost of Inaction: Highlight the long-term costs of staying on unsupported hardware. This can include the potential need for emergency upgrades, higher ticket volumes, and the risk of downtime due to security breaches.
- Hardware Refresh Strategy: Discuss the importance of timely hardware upgrades. Frame the conversation around how refreshing systems early will save money by reducing the likelihood of future support costs. It also can provide opportunities for smoother transitions to newer technologies, like AI-powered systems.
- Gradual Transition: Suggest gradual upgrades to avoid overwhelming their budgets. This approach makes the process more manageable, offering flexibility while maintaining security and operational efficiency.
Broader Opportunities for MSPs Beyond PC Upgrades
The EOL of Windows 10 opens doors for MSPs to discuss other potential upgrades, including:
- Cloud Migrations: Some lightly-used PCs could be shifted to the cloud, optimizing client infrastructure and saving costs on hardware.
- Compliance and Cyber Insurance: With clients facing tighter regulations, it will be crucial to stay compliant post-Windows 10. Failure to upgrade could lead to costly insurance claims being denied.
- Modern Workspaces: The pandemic changed how businesses operate. Many clients may prefer laptops over desktops, opening new conversations around mobility, remote work setups, and peripheral sales (e.g., docking stations and monitors).
- Professional Services: Beyond hardware, MSPs can seize opportunities to offer project-based services, extended warranties, and financing options. This helps deepen their relationships with clients.
Conclusion
Windows 10 EOL is an important conversation for MSPs to have with clients now. With proper planning, it can turn into an opportunity to drive new hardware sales, improve security, ensure compliance, and open the door for broader IT conversations.
Next Steps
- Want more helpful guidance? Check out our Windows 10 End of Life and Windows 11 Upgrade Answer Center.
- Have a question for our experts? Send it to editors@channelpronetwork.com
ChannelPro has created this resource to help busy MSPs streamline their decision-making process. This resource offers a starting point for evaluating key business choices, saving time and providing clarity. While this resource is designed to guide you through important considerations, we encourage you to seek more references and professional advice to ensure fully informed decisions.
Featured image: iStock
