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Reasons and implications of the end of Windows 10 support
There is no such thing as a truly "permanent" software license. Every software application - from CAD tools to operating systems - evolves to meet changing needs, new hardware, emerging security threats, and integration with modern digital ecosystems. Old versions come to an end, and new versions come to the market to keep pace with technological progress.
A significant milestone in this evolution is fast approaching: the end of support for Windows 10 on the 14th October 2025, exactly 10 years after its launch - now just a quarter of a year away. This should come as no surprise, Microsoft announced this stage in the Windows lifecycle many years ago. Yet alarmingly, 41% of PCs in the United Kingdom are still running Windows 10 (Statcounter), despite its imminent sunset.
After 14th October 2025, Microsoft will stop providing free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security patches for Windows 10. While your computer will still work, we strongly recommend upgrading to Windows 11, which offers a modern and efficient environment designed to meet today's higher security requirements. Security is perhaps the most compelling reason to avoid remaining on an unsupported operating system.
Additionally, Microsoft will phase out support for its Office apps and Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 by that same date. Other app makers (including Autodesk) will also phase out their support for Windows 10. For example, Autodesk Fusion will no longer be installable on Windows 10 starting January 2026, and support for other major tools like AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit is expected to end by March 2026..
How to switch to Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the most logical and secure response to the end of Windows 10 support. The upgrade is free and easy to do directly from your current Windows 10 CAD workstation - no need to reinstall all your applications.
However, there are two potential major hurdles to consider before making the switch:
1) Your computer does not meet the minimum requirements to run Windows 11 – see https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11-specifications - the most common obstacles include: a TPM 2.0 chip, a DirectX 12-capable graphics card, and sufficient disk space.
2) You're using older versions of CAD/BIM/CAM/PDM applications (or other critical applications), they may not be officially supported on Windows 11. In many cases, unsupported versions won’t function reliably - or at all - even if they install. Do not rely on backward compatibility.
Overcoming the two main obstacles
If your current workstation doesn't meet Windows 11 requirements, upgrading or replacing the machine is your only viable option. In many cases, this is a timely decision - older hardware is likely beyond its practical lifespan. Upgrading not only ensures compatibility, but also delivers benefits like improved performance, reliability, and access to modern technologies.
At ARKANCE, we will be happy to help you choose the optimal hardware configuration tailored to your specific CAD workflows.
This solution can be simple but also complicated, depending on the links between the applications you use. Subscription licenses or Flex tokens include access to the latest versions of CAD software, so a simple, long overdue re-install of a new version may be sufficient (and free). We recommend consulting our experts to discover all the possible consequences of switching to new versions in the case of more complex structures of interconnected applications (PDM, fabrication management...).
In special cases, it is even possible to stay on Windows 10, for which the so-called Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, a paid support for security patches, is used. Or isolating the computer (e.g. on your shop floor) from the surrounding environment with potential security threats.
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Next steps
The deadline for the end of support for Windows 10 is fast approaching, and advance planning is essential to avoid disruption. If your organisation still uses Windows 10 workstations, we recommend budgeting to replace them (if they are outdated) and scheduling time to upgrade to new software versions. This time must include verifying that all of your business-critical applications are compatible with the new Windows 11 operating system.
At ARKANCE, we’re here to support you through this transition. Leverage our expertise to ensure a smooth and future-ready upgrade. Contact ARKANCE to get started.