Windows 10 Support Ends October 2025: How South African SMEs Can Upgrade Without Breaking the Bank
By Shane van der Merwe, IT Sector Head, Merchant West
If your business still runs on Windows 10, heads up: Microsoft will end support on October 14, 2025. That’s just seven months away as of now, and for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across South Africa, this deadline could mean big risks—or big opportunities. At Merchant West, we’re here to help you turn a potential headache into a strategic win with our tailored tech finance solutions.
Why the Windows 10 Support End Matters
After October 2025, Microsoft will stop delivering security updates, patches, and technical support for Windows 10. For SMEs, this isn’t just an IT issue, it’s a business risk:
- Cybersecurity Threats: No updates mean vulnerabilities pile up, exposing you to cyberattacks. South Africa already saw a 22% spike in cyber incidents in 2024 (source: SABRIC).
- Compliance Risks: Outdated systems could breach regulations like POPIA, putting your reputation on the line.
- Performance Drag: Old hardware often can’t handle Windows 11, slowing your team down.
- Globally, over 400 million enterprise PCs still run Windows 10 but lack the specs for Windows 11 (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, etc.). If that sounds like your setup, you’re not alone—but you can’t afford to wait.
The CAPEX Challenge for South African SMEs
Upgrading to new, Windows 11-ready devices isn’t cheap. With load shedding still biting, inflation hovering at 5%, and the rand’s volatility, many SA businesses can’t stomach a big capital expenditure (CAPEX) hit right now. Replacing 10 laptops could easily run R150,000+- a tough pill for cash-strapped SMEs.
A Smarter Way: Tech Financing with Merchant West
- Spread Costs: Pay for new devices over time, not upfront.
- Stay Secure: Upgrade to Windows 11-ready hardware before the deadline.
- Boost Efficiency: Modern tech means faster workflows and happier teams.
Think of it like renting a car instead of buying it outright—you get the benefits without the financial strain. Plus, we tailor solutions to your budget, whether you need five desktops or fifty laptops.
Act Now - Here’s Why
The clock’s ticking. Waiting until October risks supply chain delays (global chip shortages haven’t fully eased) and last-minute price hikes from vendors. Plus, planning now gives you time to train staff on Windows 11 and avoid disruptions.
Ready to Upgrade?
Don’t let the Windows 10 support end catch you off guard. Contact Merchant West today for a free consultation.
Call us at 021 492 0299 or fill in the form to arrange your complimentary consultation. Let’s get your tech future-ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Windows 10 support ends October 2025, specifically on October 14th, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing security updates and patches for the operating system.
Once
Windows 10 support ends October 2025
, devices running it will become vulnerable to security threats, as Microsoft will no longer provide critical updates or technical support. This can expose your business to cyber risks and compliance issues.
When Windows 10 support ends October 2025, South African SMEs risk running outdated systems that are non-compliant with data protection laws like POPIA and prone to cyberattacks. Planning early helps avoid disruption and financial loss.
Yes, you technically can. However, since Windows 10 support ends October 2025, continuing to use it means you won’t receive updates, exposing your business to significant security and performance issues.
Upgrading involves either updating compatible devices to Windows 11 or replacing hardware that doesn’t meet Windows 11’s requirements. Since Windows 10 support ends October 2025, it’s wise to assess and plan now.
To prepare for when Windows 10 support ends October 2025, you’ll need hardware with features like TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and a supported CPU. Many older devices don’t meet these specs and may need replacing.
Yes. Tech financing through providers like Merchant West allows South African SMEs to upgrade to Windows 11-ready devices without heavy upfront costs. It’s a smart way to manage the transition before Windows 10 support ends October 2025.