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Microsoft Ending Windows 10 Support

Still running Windows 10? It’s time to plan your upgrade to stay secure and supported.

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.

If you have not yet discussed your upgrade needs with Squirrel, use the form to setup an initial consult.

Appointments are booked on a first-come, first-served basis.

Resources:

List of impacted and unimpacted Squirrel Products
Windows 10 EOS Notice
Windows 11 Compatibility Checker.

Product Details

Unimpacted Products

PRODUCT
STATUS
WS152 Series Workstations Uses Windows 10 Enterprise IoT LTSC 2021. Supported until 2032.
WS140/WS141/WS142 Series Workstations Uses Linux operating systems.
Kitchen Armor 10″ – 17″ All-in-one Screens Uses Android operating systems.
IP Check and Requisition Printers IP Printers have no reliance on your terminal operating systems.

Hosts + Terminals Impacted by Windows 10 EOL

PRODUCT
UPGRADE PATH
Windows 10 PC Upgrade OS to Windows 11 or replacement with a new PC.
WS150/WS151 Series Workstations Upgrade OS to Windows 10 Enterprise IoT LTSC 2021.
WS10PX Workstations Requires a hardware upgrade.

Peripherals Impacted by Windows 10 EOL

PRODUCT
UPGRADE PATH
Systech Serial Printer Hubs Upgrade printers to IP-enabled models or replace with Brainbox hub.
QSR Automations eXpert / eXceeD KDS Controllers Upgrade to the Kitchen Armor Edge Windows 10 IoT Controller.
Kitchen Armor Edge Win10P KDS Controller OS upgrade or replacement with a new Kitchen Armor Edge Controller.
VMware Workstation Version 16 and Prior Requires an upgrade to VMware Workstation Version 17.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do customers need to upgrade to Windows 11 or is it optional?
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, customers will no longer receive security updates or patches, significantly increasing the risk to their brand and infrastructure. It is strongly recommended that all customers upgrade to Windows 11 for desktop systems or to Windows Enterprise IoT LTSC 2021 for Squirrel terminals.
Will Windows 10 devices still function after EOL?
Yes, Windows 10 devices will continue to operate after EOL. However, they will be increasingly vulnerable to security threats due to the absence of updates. Over time, customers may also experience application instability as vendors discontinue support and certifications for Windows 10.
Can customers upgrade their devices to Windows 11 on their own?

Some PC’s may be eligible.  Customers can check compatibility using the Microsoft tool: Windows 11 Compatibility Checker

However, some hardware like Systech hubs and QSR controllers will not meet Windows 11 requirements and should be replaced.

What devices absolutely cannot be upgraded and must be replaced?

  • Systech hubs (incompatible with Win11 or modern peripherals)

  • QSR eXpert / eXceed controllers

  • Unsupported tablets that can’t handle Win10 IoT or lack OEM support

Will Squirrel Cloud eliminate the need for Windows PC OS upgrades in the future?

Yes. Squirrel Cloud POS is ideal for customers wanting to future-proof and reduce infrastructure costs.

Squirrel Cloud reduces hardware dependency such as a need for a host PC. It also offers:

  • Mobile First: Squirrel Apps for iOS, Android, Windows make mobility simple

  • Always have the latest: Get automatic updates in the background

  • Restaurant Data Anywhere: Access your restaurant data anywhere on any device

Are there upgrade incentives or bundles available?

For many, moving to Squirrel Cloud will be the best option both from a savings perspective and a future-proof solution for long term management.

There are also a few upgrade promos and bundle available to support our customers. Reach out to your representative or fill out the form above and our team will be pleased to review these options with you.

What's the difference between Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 IoT LTSC 2021?

Windows 10 Pro is a general-purpose desktop OS used on notebooks and PCs. Microsoft will stop supporting it on October 14, 2025.

Windows 10 Enterprise IoT LTSC is a specialized embedded OS, licensed through OEM channels, used on Squirrel terminals. It is security-hardened, and built for long-term stability and support. Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021 is supported until 2032.

What are the risks of not upgrading?

Failing to upgrade from Windows 10 after October 14, 2025 carries significant security risks:

  • No security updates: Microsoft will cease releasing patches, including those for critical zero-day vulnerabilities, malware defenses, and system-level exploits.
  • Increased threat exposure: Attackers will actively target unsupported Windows 10 systems.
  • Reduced compatibility: Complementary applications may stop supporting Windows 10.
  • PCI Security: Unsupported systems may violate Requirement 2.2.4 of PCI, which mandates that components be supported and protected from known vulnerabilities.