Support for Windows 10 will end on 14 October 2025, marking the end of an era. First released in July 2015, the Operating System (OS) has stood the test of time for a decade, but it will soon be time to say goodbye. With support and security updates no longer available beyond October 2025, the remaining systems will become vulnerable to emerging threats and disruption.
Organisations must carefully plan their next steps as Microsoft phases out updates and patches. This blog will explore everything you need to know, cover options for transitioning to Windows 11, and explain why planning is crucial. We’ll also discuss how effective equipment lifecycle management can help you avoid supply constraints and rising costs, and get the most value out of your equipment investments.
What Does the End of Windows 10 Support Mean for Your Business?
Increased Cyber Security Risks
Cybercriminals consistently search for and attack systems with outdated software and operating systems, taking advantage of unpatched vulnerabilities. If your business continues to operate Windows 10 beyond the End of Life (EOL) date, you’re significantly increasing the risk of a breach, which could lead to potential financial, operational, and reputational damage. A breach in an unsupported environment can even invalidate cyber insurance, potentially leaving you without coverage during an attack.
Loss of Support and Compatibility
Microsoft provides technical assistance and software updates for its supported Operating Systems. Without this support, troubleshooting system issues becomes difficult, and compatibility issues will begin to emerge with newer software and hardware, creating further challenges with integrating new technologies into your business.
Plan Your Upgrade Before the EOL Date
We recommend planning now to avoid disruptions and ensure business continuity. Evaluate your equipment inventory and consider upgrading to Windows 11 or replacing older devices. By acting early, you can ensure a smooth transition and get ahead of challenges that come with waiting until the last minute.
How Can an Unsupported OS Derail Your Cyber Security Strategy?
Compliance and Security Frameworks
The ACSC Essential Eight is a set of recommended strategies for every Australian business, developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) to help mitigate cyber risks. One of the key controls in the Essential Eight is ‘Patch Operating Systems,’ which requires patching operating systems and security vulnerabilities within acceptable timeframes. The lack of updates post Windows 10 EOL directly contradicts the ‘Patch Operating Systems’ control, impacting your organisation’s overall maturity level and potentially leading to non-compliance if you have specific requirements to adhere to the Essential Eight.
Unpatched Operating Systems
Operating systems without the proper security patches are sitting ducks for cybercriminals. When Windows 10 reaches EOL, critical updates will cease to provide patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Attackers regularly target organisations using outdated software and take advantage of vulnerabilities in unpatched systems to deploy various types of attacks. Furthermore, the risk is increased in interconnected IT environments, where a single, compromised device can lead to widespread network disruptions.
Unsupported OS Could Void Your Insurance
Using unsupported OS may affect your cyber insurance coverage. Many insurance providers limit the cover available for known vulnerabilities. These limitations generally apply to vulnerabilities in hardware or software that have reached EOL or there was a patch or fix available and no action taken. Operating on an unsupported OS, such as Windows 10, after October 2025 can negatively impact your insurability or in some cases, limit the cover of your policy.
The Strategic Advantage of Early Action
Businesses that take a proactive stance on Windows 10 EOL will have a strategic advantage in multiple ways. Upgrading early to Windows 11 can help you avoid impending stock shortages and price surges as demand for new devices increases toward the deadline. This allows you to secure the best equipment at competitive prices. Also, as more businesses rush to upgrade, IT service providers will have limited capacity. It would be advisable to act sooner for prioritised service, minimising disruption and ensuring a smoother migration.
Stock Shortages and Price Surges
If the Windows 7 EOL in 2022 is anything to go by, we expect to see demand for new devices surge, leading to stock shortages and price increases, as the Windows 10 support deadline approaches. Businesses that delay their transition could end up paying a premium or settling for less-than-optimal hardware. Planning early lets you secure the right equipment at competitive prices, ensuring a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Limited Capacity of IT Service Providers
Keep in mind your IT provider will experience an influx of upgrade requests, and their capacity to accommodate latecomers is limited. Carrying out an early upgrade ensures that your business is prioritised, avoiding delays that could impact your operations. Early planning also allows for a more strategic approach, minimising disruptions and providing a seamless migration.
Options for Transition: Upgrade, Replace, or Extend?
With the Windows 10 EOL, businesses have a few paths to consider, each with its pros and cons:
Upgrade to Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 is free for Windows 10 PCs running the most current version and meeting the minimum hardware requirements. The upgrade keeps your OS supported and current with all critical updates and security patches. You can enjoy most apps on Windows 11 OS as you did on Windows 10 with new and added features and performance capabilities, from enhanced productivity tools to state-of-the-art security capabilities. However, upgrading has its challenges. Compatibility issues may arise, especially for older devices that might fail to meet the hardware specifications set by Windows 11.
Replace Outdated Devices
For many businesses, replacing older equipment with new Windows 11-ready devices is the best long-term solution. Devices older than three years are already beyond their recommended service life. With only a limited lifespan remaining, the time and effort required to upgrade them is often better spent refreshing devices.
By replacing these devices, you benefit from a better user experience, improved performance, and enhanced reliability. Implementing a proactive equipment lifecycle plan can ensure your technology always stays up-to-date, is more cost-effective and minimises disruptions to your employees.
Extended Security Updates (ESU)
If an upgrade or OS replacement is not immediately possible, companies can opt for Extended Security Updates (ESU) from Microsoft, providing security patches for a limited time beyond Microsoft’s support. However, the ESU is only provisional, as the costs will grow yearly. It is also not a substitute for full support since no new features or compatibility updates will be provided. This may be feasible for enterprises requiring more transition time, but it should be viewed as a short-term solution.
A Proactive Strategy: How to Prepare for Windows 10 End of Life
We recommend starting with three steps to prepare your organisation for EOL.
Conduct a System Audit
Identify all devices running Windows 10 within your organisation and understand the age, warranty coverage and compatibility of existing devices with Windows 11. Use tools like Microsoft’s PC Health Check to assess which systems are compatible with Windows 11. If they aren’t, an update to Windows 11 is not possible.
Evaluate your upgrade options
After auditing your systems, determine whether upgrading your current hardware is feasible or replacing older devices with new Windows 11-ready models is a better investment. Consider factors like the age and condition of your current infrastructure to make the most informed decision.
Plan Your Budget
Budgeting for a large-scale upgrade can be challenging, but flexible options that spread the costs over time are available. Rather than tying up capital in technology that quickly becomes outdated, these alternatives provide flexibility, financial benefits, and access to the latest technology you need to remain competitive. This approach allows businesses to keep their technology up to date without the burden of large upfront costs, similar to how many companies already manage printers and other office equipment.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The end of Windows 10 support is more than just a software change. It is a critical point that may affect security and operational continuity within your business. Delaying your upgrade may expose your organisation to cyber threats, inflated costs, and operational delays.
Secure Your IT Future with Rodin
Rodin can support your transition from Windows 10 to a secure, updated environment. Our experts can help assess your current systems, plan an upgrade, and help you migrate to Windows 11. With over 30 years of experience, we understand the unique needs of today’s businesses and commit ourselves to helping you stay secure and compliant. Visit our Services page to secure your place in our upgrade schedule and avoid delays.
