As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and ecosystem readiness, we are sharing the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) and Hardware Lab Kit (HLK) end-of-support plan for Windows 10, in alignment with its upcoming end-of-support (EOS) milestone on October 14, 2025.
Key Updates
WHCP Windows 10 Certification Deprecation
WHCP will begin deprecating the certification process for Windows 10 following its official end-of-support date on October 14, 2025. Windows 10 LTSC 2021 release (22H2) and HLK 22H2, which will remain supported through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program in 2028.
For Windows Server certification, HLK versions 1809 and 22H2 will continue to be used for Windows Server LTSC releases until their respective EOS dates described under Server Policy. https://aka.ms/WHCP
How this deprecation affects you
- Hardware Dev Center
o HDC will continue to accept HLK packages for all Windows 10 versions. We will announce timelines for when HDC will stop accepting packages built on unsupported HLK and Windows 10 versions. Further announcements on the timeline will be shared on our blog.
o Partners are strongly encouraged to transition to supported HLK versions to avoid disruptions in certification workflows.
- HLK & Windows 10 Supports
o Effective October 14, 2025, Microsoft will end support for all unsupported Windows 10 versions and their corresponding HLK releases, except for the versions supported through Extended Security Updates (ESU) and Windows Server LTSC programs. After this date, Microsoft Premier Support will no longer accept HLK cases for unsupported versions.
o As of October 14, 2025, downloads for unsupported HLK releases will be removed from https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/test/hlk/.
This deprecation plan is designed to provide clarity and predictability as we collectively transition toward modern platforms. For additional context on the Windows 10 ESU program and lifecycle, please refer to the public announcement: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/windows-itpro-blog/when-to-use-windows-10-extended-security-updates/4102628.
We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to supporting your success through this transition.
Microsoft