Still on Windows 10? The clock is ticking

Michael Tunstall

August 30, 2025

What would happen if one of your business’s most important tools suddenly became unsafe to use?

That’s exactly the risk facing companies still running Windows 10.

On 14th October 2025, Microsoft ends free support for Windows 10. That’s not far away — and considering how long it takes to plan, budget, and roll out upgrades, the deadline is closer than it looks.

And when support ends, it really ends:

  • No more security patches

  • No more bug fixes

  • No Microsoft support if things go wrong

Yes, your devices will still switch on. But without updates, they’ll become prime targets for cyber criminals.

Many businesses are unprepared

A recent survey found:

  • 18% of business owners don’t even know support is ending

  • 14% know but haven’t started planning

That leaves a huge number of organisations heading into October unprotected — risking disruption, data breaches, and expensive downtime.

What about Extended Security Updates?

Microsoft will sell ESUs… but they’re expensive, temporary, and the cost rises every year. It’s a sticking plaster, not a fix.

Why upgrade to Windows 11 now?

Windows 11 isn’t just the next version of Windows. It’s:

  • Faster and more secure

  • Designed for modern, hybrid working

  • Built with productivity tools like Copilot, Teams, and OneDrive baked in

  • Packed with the latest defences against today’s cyber threats

But here’s the catch: not every Windows 10 device can run Windows 11. Hardware upgrades may be needed. And the later you leave it, the more disruptive and costly that becomes.

The bottom line

October 2025 is a hard deadline. Leave it too late, and you’ll face rushed decisions, higher costs, and bigger risks.

If you haven’t already started, act now. Ask your IT support partner: “Are we ready for Windows 10 end of life?” If they can’t confidently say yes, it’s time to make a plan.

And if you’d like expert help moving to Windows 11 with minimum disruption, my team and I are here to make it smooth and stress-free.

Get in touch today.

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