Windows 10 End of Life - What to Know

On October 14th 2025 Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. For businesses running their digital signage networks using Windows 10 devices who haven’t already started planning for October, here’s what you need to know about the risks and your options moving forward.

Why It Matters

When Windows 10 reaches end of life (EOL) it will no longer receive security updates or patches. This will mean your signage network will become increasingly vulnerable to new malware and ransomware attacks.

Even if your existing setup still works perfectly, sticking with an unsupported OS is a risk - especially for devices in public or client-facing environments such as retail stores, restaurants, or schools and universities.

What Are Your Options?

There are a variety of options, both free and commercial to consider for your migration, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

1) Upgrade to Windows 11

If you have a preference for a Windows environment, the quickest option would be to upgrade to the latest version of Windows. However you will need to consider whether your digital signage hardware (media players, mini PCs, repurposed desktops) will meet Windows 11 hardware requirements and the cost implications of upgrading all hardware.

2) Extended Security Updates Programme

Microsoft is also offering an Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme. This extends critical security patches for Windows 10 devices for up to three more years. It comes at a cost however, with pricing per device and increasing each year. It can however provide a short-term solution before migrating to another operating system.

3) Migrate to a Different Operating System

Another option is to consider migrating your Windows network to a different operating system. Xibo offers commercial solutions across ChromeOS, Android, webOS and Tizen and these may offer an alternative solution to staying with Windows:

ChromeOS

If you’re looking for a secure, reliable, and sustainable solution, ChromeOS may be the answer. With ChromeOS Flex, you can breathe new life into existing PCs and laptops - including many ageing Windows 10 machines. Repurposing your device can be achieved in under five minutes, making this the ideal solution if you need to get up-and-running quickly.

Our Xibo for ChromeOS player integrates seamlessly with our CMS for optimal performance and streamlined set up.

Android

For a lightweight and efficient operating system for your digital signage, consider going mobile. This will require new hardware. However, our Android recommended hardware, developed by DS Devices, has been built and fine-tuned for Xibo for Android, offering a solution that is fully compatible with our open source CMS.

Tizen and webOS (SoC)

SoC (System-on-Chip) displays offer a sleek, integrated finish for your digital signage, without the need for external media players. In this case, you can simply replace your existing hardware with Samsung displays running Xibo for Tizen or LG displays running Xibo for webOS. Again, you will want to factor cost and your existing arrangement into your decision.

Linux

If remaining open source is important to you, Linux may be what you need. You can continue to use open source player software for your digital signage thanks to our beta programme. Be part of the development and help bring a new generation open source player to the Xibo CMS.

Start Planning Now

With only 4 months left until Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, it’s vital to begin planning your migration. This will prevent any downtime of your digital signage network and keep you protected from cyberthreats in the long-term.

If you want to learn more about how Xibo can support you in this transition, contact a member of our sales team.

Contact Sales