What Windows 10 End-of-Life Means for Businesses
When software reaches its end-of-life (EOL), it becomes outdated and unsupported. Here's how that impacts businesses still running Windows 10 after October 14th 2025:
- No more security updates or patches. Microsoft will now longer release updates to address security vulnerabilities. This leaves systems exposed to malware, ransomware, and hacking attempts
- Compatibility issues. News software and hardware are likely to be incompatible with Windows 10, limiting your ability to upgrade devices or run modern applications
- Cyber security threats. With no updates to mitigate risks, businesses become prime targets of cyber-criminals exploiting known vulnerabilities. If your organisation has Cyber Essentials accreditation, this will also not be renewed if your systems are still on Windows 10
- Vendor support cessation. Third-party software vendors may stop offering support for Windows 10 environments, leading to increased downtime and inefficiencies
Risks of Not Upgrading to Windows 11
Failing to upgrade to Windows 11 by the October deadline comes with significant consequences. Here's what you risk:
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Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: Without patches, outdated systems become easier targets for ransomware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats.
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Compliance Failures: Many regulations, such as GDPR and Cyber Essentials, require the use of up-to-date software. Sticking with Windows 10 could lead to fines or legal penalties for non-compliance.
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Reduced Productivity: Old systems slow down work processes and may be unable to support new applications, leaving your business at a competitive disadvantage.
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Rising IT Costs: Ignoring the upgrade now may lead to higher reactive costs later, such as paying for emergency fixes or data recovery following a breach.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
The clock is ticking towards Windows 10 end-of-life. Waiting until the last minute to upgrade increases the risk of business disruptions, security breaches, and compliance failures.
Take action today to ensure your business is protected and ready to thrive with Windows 11.
Download Our Checklist
Whether you're looking at getting support from your IT provider for your Windows upgrades, or doing it yourselves in-house, download our FREE checklist and guide on what steps and mitigations to take to ensure a smooth upgrade.
Mitigation Steps if You Can't Upgrade Right Away
If upgrading by October 2025 isn't feasible, there are steps you can take to mitigate risks:
- Strengthen Cybersecurity: Implement advanced threat protection, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
- Limit Internet Access: Only allow critical devices to connect online to reduce exposure.
- Segment Networks: Isolate outdated systems from main networks to contain potential breaches.
- Ongoing Risk Monitoring: Regularly review IT risks and ensure cybersecurity protocols are airtight.
