EPC Group Releases Triage Plan for October 2026 Microsoft Deadlines

EPC Group, a Houston-based Microsoft consulting firm, has released a three-week triage plan to help organizations prepare for a critical triple deadline on October 13, 2026. On this date, three key Microsoft products will reach the end of their support cycles: Office LTSC 2021, Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) Year 1, and the third and final year of ESU for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2.

According to Errin O’Connor, Founder & Chief AI Architect of EPC Group, the most significant exposure occurs where unsupported systems overlap, such as a Windows 10 PC running Office LTSC 2021 connecting to a Windows Server 2012 file server. This scenario leaves organizations vulnerable, as every link in the chain will be unsupported after October 14, 2026.

The triage plan involves a structured three-week approach. Week one focuses on counting and categorizing devices, ensuring accurate inventory before any license or ESU purchases. Week two assigns each device to one of four paths: migrating to Microsoft 365 Apps on a supported Windows 11 device, installing Office LTSC 2024 for on-premises needs, purchasing Windows 10 ESU Year 2 as a temporary solution, or retiring/replacing unsupported devices. Week three executes these plans in deadline order, ensuring compliance and security.

EPC Group emphasizes the importance of this plan, highlighting its experience in managing large-scale Microsoft 365 engagements. The firm’s License Optimization Assessment and consulting services are designed to streamline the transition process, ensuring organizations meet the October 2026 deadlines without disruptions.