Sage 100 Tip of the Month: Plan now for the end of Windows 10 certification

Change isn’t always welcome, especially when it comes to operating system upgrades. If you’ve ever delayed a Windows update (or two… or ten), you’re not alone. However, for Sage 100 users running on Windows 10, an important deadline is approaching that makes planning ahead essential.

Sage has announced updates to its compatibility roadmap following Microsoft’s end of Windows 10 support. This month’s tip explains what’s changing, when it takes effect, and what Sage 100 users should do now to stay compliant and avoid disruption.

Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. In response, Sage has confirmed that Windows 10 certification for Sage 100 will end after the final 2025 payroll update. Beginning with the April 2026 payroll release, Sage 100 will require Windows 11 to ensure compatibility with payroll updates and future Sage 100 versions.

Changes timeline:
Here’s a clear breakdown of the timeline and impact:

• December 2025
  Sage will test Sage 100 Payroll version 2.26.0 for compatibility with Windows 10. This will be the last payroll release verified for Windows 10.
• April 2026 and beyond
  Sage will no longer certify Sage 100 for Windows 10. Any payroll releases or Sage 100 updates after this point will require Windows 11.
• Affected Sage 100 Versions
  The following updates will no longer be verified for Windows 10:
  • Sage 100 2026.0
  • Sage 100 2025.2
  • Sage 100 2024.4

If your Sage 100 workstations are still running Windows 10, you’ll need to upgrade the operating system before installing these updates to ensure compatibility.

To avoid last-minute issues, Sage recommends planning your transition well in advance.

1. Inventory your Sage 100 workstations
   Identify which machines are still running Windows 10.
2. Evaluate upgrade readiness
   Confirm whether existing hardware supports Windows 11 or if replacements are needed.
3. Create a transition plan
   Schedule OS upgrades ahead of payroll updates and Sage 100 version upgrades.
4. Coordinate with IT and Sage partners
   Ensure your system environment is fully compatible before installing future Sage updates.

Waiting until April 2026 could mean delays, unsupported configurations, or unexpected downtime, especially during payroll processing.

Before upgrading, confirm that the workstation meets Microsoft’s minimum requirements for Windows 11.

1. Check Windows 11 compatibility
   • On the workstation, open Settings | Update & Security | Windows Update.
   • Select Check for updates.
   • If the device is eligible, you’ll see an option to upgrade to Windows 11.
   • If not, Microsoft will indicate that the hardware does not meet requirements.

2. Back up important data
   • Ensure all critical files, including Sage 100-related data and custom reports, are backed up before proceeding.
3. Start the upgrade
   • From Windows Update, select Download and install under the Windows 11 upgrade option.
   • Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the installation.
4. Restart and complete setup
   • The system will restart multiple times during the upgrade.
   • Once complete, log in and confirm Windows 11 is installed successfully.
5. Verify Sage 100 functionality
   • Launch Sage 100 and confirm users can access the system normally.
   • Test key functions such as General Ledger and Payroll to ensure everything runs as expected.

Payroll updates are mission-critical, and running Sage 100 on an unsupported operating system puts your business at risk for compatibility issues and disruptions. While upgrading to Windows 11 may not be anyone’s favorite project, planning now gives you control over timing, budget, and implementation, rather than being forced into a rushed upgrade later.

If you need help evaluating your environment, planning a Windows 11 transition, or preparing for upcoming Sage 100 updates, connect with our Sage experts. We can help you navigate this update smoothly and ensure your Sage 100 system is ready for what’s next. And be sure to check back next month for our next tip, where we’ll continue sharing practical guidance to help you get the most out of your system.