If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve used Windows 10 for years, and it has served you well. But like every version before it, Windows 10 has an expiration date. On October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will officially reach its end-of-life (EOL). Windows 10 end-of-life means it will no longer receive updates, security patches, or support from Microsoft.
If you’re not sure what Windows 10 is (like many users), don’t worry! Windows 10 is like the foundation of a house for your computer. As the operating system, Windows 10 holds up everything your computer does, from its programs to its security features. As time goes on, this foundation needs maintenance, and eventually, it may not support heavier “floors” (new programs and features) that your computer needs.
Keeping Windows 10 past end-of-life is like discovering cracks in your home’s foundation and not fixing them. Your home/computer may still hold up for a while, but it’s no longer safe to rely on as it once was. To reinforce why this matters, let’s start by taking a look at what’s at stake.
The Risks that Come with Windows 10 End-Of-Life
Outdated Software and Cybersecurity
Once Microsoft stops updating Windows 10, your computer becomes vulnerable to new security threats. Without regular updates, hackers can exploit any unpatched vulnerabilities to access your data. These cyber-attacks may not happen immediately, but vulnerabilities will spring up as Windows 10 becomes more outdated. This means it’s only a matter of time until an attack finds your business if you lag behind on upgrading from Windows 10.
It’s not just small threats: major security breaches could happen if you continue using an unsupported operating system. As we mentioned, hackers are already gearing up to target any weaknesses in Windows 10 after its end-of-life data. Your business isn’t too small to be targeted. Without ongoing security updates, outdated systems become low-hanging fruit for cybercriminals.
Do you remember the transition from Windows 7? Many businesses faced security incidents because they delayed upgrading, leaving them exposed to threats that were easily preventable. Maybe this affected your business. Regardless, it is an issue that you do not want to take lightly.
Be on the lookout for increased phishing scams and fraudulent messages as hackers aim to capitalize on Windows 10 end-of-life. Businesses are at greater risk of falling for fake upgrade prompts or malicious links disguised as official Microsoft notifications, especially as October 14 draws closer.
Compatibility Concerns
This risk is easy to miss, but relevant. As Microsoft phases out support for Windows 10, other vendors will too. This includes everything from software providers to device manufacturers. If you rely on third-party applications or peripherals, such as printers, you may experience sudden compatibility issues. And let’s be honest, we all rely on these tools and take their usage for granted.
Outdated drivers and unsupported software can easily lead to a consistent loss of productivity for your business, as well as unplanned expenses if you’re left scrambling to find workarounds.
The Cost of Last-Minute Solutions
Speaking of scrambling at the last minute, waiting too long to start the upgrade process is more than just stressful: it’s a costly mistake. Many businesses find themselves scrambling to upgrade as the end-of-life date approaches, leading to them paying for band-aid IT services and vastly increasing the chance of downtime for clients if the process doesn’t go smoothly (which it rarely does.)
Proactive planning is key to avoiding the rush and the higher costs associated with last-minute upgrades. It’s much better to pinpoint an issue with end-of-life upgrading sooner rather than later, while you still have time to calmly solve the problem.
The Risk of Not Prioritizing the Upgrade
For many companies, Windows 10 end-of-life can feel like “just one more thing” on an already full plate. We get it. Day to day responsibilities are demanding and preparing for an operating system transition can easily get pushed down your priority list. However remember this: dragging your feet will lead to paying a much steeper price later. If this is your business, don’t worry. It’s not all doom and gloom. You’re already taking a much needed step by reading through this blog post that many businesses won’t.
As we’ll explain in the next sections, there are many benefits to prioritizing the upgrade to Windows 11 other than just preventing risks.
The Opportunities that Come with a Timely Upgrade
A Fresh Start with New Hardware (And a New Operating System)
The end of Windows 10 presents a perfect opportunity to review your currently technology setup. New hardware means better performance and fewer disruptions, and Windows 10 EOL gives an excellent reason to make the switch. It’s often cheaper in the long run to replace your oldest workstations with new Windows 11 compatible hardware.
Here are some guidelines to gauge if your hardware is in need of a fresh start:
- If you’re using computers that are five years or older, it’s time for an upgrade.
- For businesses with relatively new hardware within 3 years of usage, upgrading the Windows license to Windows 11 can extend the life of these machines without the expense of a full replacement.
- For workstations that are within a year of usage, you may already be using Windows 11. If not, upgrading the license should be seamless.
Windows 11 has also matured a lot since its initial launch. Today’s version is user-friendly and optimized for business use, combining familiar functionality with updated versions of the tools that you are already used to.
Enhance Security and Future Proofing Your Business Technology
If one of the biggest risks of Windows 10 EOL is the decreased security that comes with support ending, it should come as no surprise that some of Windows 11 biggest benefits are its support and airtight security features. From built-in security layers to regular patches, Windows 11 offers a more comprehensive defense against cyber threats, and not just after October 14th. These benefits are present in its current form. Additionally, making the move to Windows 11 doesn’t just upgrade your workstations for today. You’re setting your hardware up for the future.
Ensuring that you aren’t left behind as Windows 10 support expires will help your business avoid the pitfalls of sudden disruptions and costs down the road.
Preparing for the Transition: A Step-By-Step Look
Here are actionable steps that we recommend to prepare for the Windows 10 end-of-life transition and put your business in the best possible position.
1) Consult with Your IT Provider
Work with your IT provider to create an upgrade strategy. From helping you select the right hardware to handling software upgrades, an IT expert can manage the details so that you don’t have to. This means that you and your team can focus on your core business tasks while a significant portion of the transition is taken off your plate.
2) Assess Your Current Hardware
Determine the age and condition of your devices. Machines older than five years need to be replaced, while newer ones may just need a Windows 11 license upgrade. This assessment will guide your planning and budgeting in the next steps.
3) Communicate with Your Team
Keep your employees informed about the strategy you discuss with your IT provider. Set expectations for the upgrade process and make sure they understand the risks of phishing scams related to Windows 10’s end-of-life.
4) Upgrade Aged Workstations and Licenses
This step is simple if you and your IT provider took the time to properly assess your current hardware. Replace old workstations and upgrade licenses as needed before moving on to Step 5.
5) Use a Phased Rollout
Instead of waiting until the last minute, consider a phased rollout with your IT team. Upgrade workstations for a small group of employees first to test the compatibility and get feedback, then gradually move more employees to Windows 11 over time. This method reduces disruptions and makes the adoption process much smoother for everyone involved.
Have additional questions? We’re here to help!
We hope this blog post has helped you understand Windows 10 end-of-life and how it affects your business. Don’t let October 14th sneak up on you. Start preparing today with the steps we’ve outlined and your technology will be set up for the future in no time. If you don’t have an IT provider currently or have concerns about their abilities, we’re available to help. Contact us to schedule a meeting.