Microsoft Ends Support for Surface Hub: Key Upgrades Needed by 2025

Microsoft is charting new territory in its collaboration strategy by officially announcing the end of support for the Surface Hub and Surface Hub 2S devices. Set to occur on October 14, 2025, this decision coincides with the end of mainstream Windows 10 support. For organizations that have integrated these powerful meeting and collaboration tools into their workflows, the message is clear: it’s time to plan for an upgrade.
Below is an in-depth look at Microsoft’s announcement, what it means for IT administrators and business users, and the strategic pathways available for transitioning to a modern, secure collaboration environment.

What Does End of Support Mean?​

When Microsoft declares the end of support for a device or system, it signals the cessation of official security updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance. For the Surface Hub and Surface Hub 2S, this means:

• No more security updates or patches to address emerging threats after October 14, 2025.
• The removal of key apps, such as Microsoft Teams, from these devices.
• An eventual drop in overall functionality and an increased risk of performance or security issues as vulnerabilities evolve over time.

This transition mirrors broader trends in the tech industry. Just as millions of users brace for the end-of-support milestone for Windows 10, businesses utilizing Surface Hub devices must now consider their long-term digital collaboration strategies .

Upgrading Your Collaboration Environment​

Microsoft has laid out several options to help users navigate this change, ensuring that the transition does not interrupt the collaborative spirit that these devices are designed to support.

1. The Original Surface Hub​

For users of the original Surface Hub, the notification is unequivocal. Post-October 2025, these devices will have no further support or hardware refresh options. In practical terms, if you continue relying on your original Surface Hub beyond that date, you run the risk of operating without updated security measures and missing out on new collaborative features.

2. Surface Hub 3 Compute Cartridge​

One pathway for organizations to extend the life of their existing hardware is through the Surface Hub 3 Compute Cartridge. This upgrade option embeds updated hardware and introduces Windows 11-based Teams Rooms functionality. By investing in the Surface Hub 3 Compute Cartridge, you not only attract the benefits of modern security protocols but also ensure a smoother workflow as you transition into a new technological era.

3. Free Surface Hub 2S Migration Offering​

For current users of the Surface Hub 2S, Microsoft is offering a migration path that allows you to shift to Teams Rooms on Windows. This free migration program is available until October 14, 2025, giving organizations a window of opportunity to reconfigure their meeting spaces without immediately breaking the bank. This move is especially strategic for enterprises that depend on synchronous collaboration but are constrained by tight budgets.

4. Transitioning to Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise​

For personal and smaller-scale business use, there’s also the option to simply switch to Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise editions. Windows 11 not only offers enhanced security features but also a modernized user experience that’s been fine-tuned to support contemporary productivity demands. Notably, systems equipped with Windows 11 benefit from next-generation security technologies such as hardware-based isolation and encryption, vital for defending against today’s cyber threats.

Broader Implications: Windows 10’s Sunset and Beyond​

Microsoft’s decision to retire support for Surface Hub devices is closely tied to the broader sunset of Windows 10. With Windows 10 scheduled to lose mainstream support on the same day, this marks a significant pivot point across Microsoft’s ecosystem. Many consumer products, including applications like OneNote, are also set to be affected, forcing users to reconsider their software landscape for both business and personal use.

Security and Productivity at Risk​

Without regular security patches and performance updates, devices running unsupported software may become vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks. Think of it as driving an iconic classic car with antiquated safety features on modern highways—it might still run, but the risks are mounting every mile along the way .

Modern Workplace Demands​

In today’s ever-evolving work environments—where remote collaboration and hybrid work models are common—the need for devices that operate on current software standards has never been higher. Windows 11, with its streamlined interface and improved performance, is positioned as a natural fit for modern offices. This is not just an upgrade; it’s a leap forward in terms of both functionality and security, something that organizations cannot afford to ignore.

Planning Your Transition Strategy​

For IT administrators, the end-of-support announcement isn’t just news—it’s a call to action. Here are some key steps and considerations in planning your upgrade:

Conduct a Comprehensive Audit​

• Inventory your current devices to identify which ones are Surface Hubs or Surface Hub 2S.
• Assess the current usage scenarios and determine the potential impact of losing support.
• Identify gaps in performance and security that may worsen without timely updates.

Outline Your Upgrade Roadmap​

• Decide whether to invest in hardware refresh options like the Surface Hub 3 Compute Cartridge.
• Consider the free Surface Hub 2S migration offering if you’re running those devices, planning your migration strategy before the October 2025 deadline.
• Evaluate transitioning to full Windows 11-based setups if you’re planning a broader upgrade across devices.

Ensure Data Security​

• Backup critical data regularly especially when planning hardware migrations.
• Reevaluate your cybersecurity protocols to accommodate any increased vulnerability during the transition phase.
• Work closely with your IT security team to schedule staggered upgrade phases that avoid exposure to stagnating systems.

Budget and Resource Allocation​

• Keep in mind that while an immediate upgrade may seem costly, the long-term maintenance of unsupported systems can be far more expensive.
• Consider extended security updates (ESU) programs where available, but weigh them against the benefits of a full hardware and software upgrade.
• Factor in training for staff to make the most of the new functionalities and improved user experience available on Windows 11 setups.

Why Microsoft Is Making This Bold Move​

Microsoft’s decision to sunset support for the Surface Hub and Surface Hub 2S devices may appear abrupt, but it is rooted in the company’s commitment to continuously improving security and productivity. By redirecting resources from ageing platforms to modern solutions like Windows 11, Microsoft is ensuring that its enterprise customers can leverage cutting-edge technologies while mitigating emerging security threats. This shift is reflective of broader trends in IT, where regular upgrades are essential to maintain robust defenses in an increasingly connected and vulnerable digital world.
Looking at industry parallels, similar transitions have been witnessed with the end-of-support for older Windows editions. Past experiences have shown that failing to adapt to updated security protocols can lead to operational disruptions and security breaches. The proactive push towards a more modern ecosystem isn’t just about keeping pace with technology—it’s about staying ahead of potential threats.

Real-World Impact and Success Stories​

For many organizations, upgrading their collaboration devices has proven to be a game-changer. Take, for instance, companies that have already migrated to newer Windows 11-based Teams Rooms—they report not only enhanced security but also improved user satisfaction thanks to the intuitive design and fluid performance of modern devices. These success stories underscore the importance of heeding the end-of-support advisories and planning ahead.
In the past, Windows 10’s end-of-support timeline served as a wake-up call for IT departments, prompting many to upgrade their hardware well before the deadline. The same level of urgency now applies to Surface Hub users. Businesses that have proactively created comprehensive transition plans have managed to avoid the pitfalls associated with unsupported systems, such as security vulnerabilities, operational downtime, and compatibility issues.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Change for Future-Readiness​

Microsoft’s official announcement regarding the end of support for Surface Hub devices is a stark reminder that technology is ever-evolving. While it may seem daunting to overhaul systems that have become part of your daily operations, the benefits of updating far outweigh the temporary challenges. The push towards Windows 11 and modern collaboration tools is designed to equip organizations with the tools they need to remain competitive, secure, and agile in a dynamic business environment.
Here’s a concise summary of why this transition matters:

• End of support for Surface Hub devices on October 14, 2025, means no more security patches or technical support.
• Multiple migration paths are available, including hardware refresh via the Surface Hub 3 Compute Cartridge and the free Surface Hub 2S migration option.
• The move is aligned with the broader phase-out of Windows 10 support, emphasizing enhanced security and improved functionality on Windows 11.
• Proactive planning—through auditing, road mapping, and budgeting—is vital to avoid future complications.

By taking action now, enterprises can ensure that their meeting spaces continue to inspire creativity, improve collaboration, and maintain the security standards essential for thriving in today’s digital landscape. As Microsoft leads the charge toward a future of robust, integrated technology solutions, forward-thinking organizations will be better poised to embrace the next generation of digital collaboration and innovation.
In the ever-changing panorama of business technology, staying updated is not merely a best practice—it’s a strategic imperative. Now is the time for decision-makers to rally their IT teams, map out a migration strategy, and seize the opportunity to modernize their workspace for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

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Source: Windows Report Microsoft announces End of Support for Surface Hub and Surface Hub 2S