Still relying on Windows 10 extended support? Don’t leave it too late

A lot of businesses are still running Windows 10.

And on the surface, that probably feels fine.

The PCs still work, security updates are still arriving through Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme, and there’s no immediate pressure to change anything.

But that safety net has an expiry date.

Extended support was never meant to be permanent

Windows 10 officially reached end of support in October 2025.

The ESU programme was designed to give businesses extra time to prepare, not to act as a long-term solution.

And that extra time runs out in October 2026.

After that:

• No more security updates

• No vulnerability fixes

• No protection against newly discovered threats

At that point, continuing to use Windows 10 becomes a genuine security risk.

Why many businesses are delaying the move

For a lot of organisations, the hesitation is understandable.

Windows 10 is familiar, stable, and still appears to work perfectly well day to day.

And because Microsoft makes enrolling into ESU relatively simple, it can create the impression the issue has effectively been solved.

In reality, it’s only been postponed.

The bigger risk isn’t only technical

Running unsupported operating systems affects more than security.

It can also create problems around:

• Cyber insurance

• Compliance requirements

• Supplier expectations

• Client security standards

More businesses are now expected to demonstrate they’re running supported and secure systems.

Once Windows 10 falls out of support completely, that conversation becomes much harder.

Some devices won’t support Windows 11

This is where planning becomes important.

Some older PCs can upgrade to Windows 11 without issue.

Others won’t meet the hardware requirements at all.

And leaving that discovery until the last minute often leads to rushed hardware purchases, disruption for staff, and unnecessary expense.

Now is the right time to review your estate

If your business is still relying on Windows 10 extended support, the key is making sure there’s a clear upgrade plan in place before the 2026 deadline arrives.

That gives you time to:

• Check compatibility

• Budget properly

• Replace ageing devices gradually

• Avoid unnecessary disruption

Because once ESU ends, Windows 10 effectively drops out of the supported business world altogether.

If you’re unsure which devices can upgrade to Windows 11 or whether you’re likely to face hardware replacements, we can help review your current setup and plan the next steps properly.