As a business leader, you probably invested significant time and resources into establishing reliable IT systems that keep your operations running smoothly. However, there is a critical deadline approaching that could impact your business security and compliance: Windows 10 end of support on 14 October 2025.
What end of support means for Windows 10
When Microsoft designates Windows 10 as end of support, it means the company will cease providing security updates, bug fixes and technical support for the operating system. This isn't simply about missing out on new features, it is about leaving your business exposed to evolving cyber threats that could potentially compromise your data, disrupt operations and damage your reputation.
Without ongoing security patches, any vulnerabilities discovered in Windows 10 after October 2025 will remain unaddressed, creating potential entry points for cyber criminals. Your systems will essentially become sitting ducks in an increasingly hostile digital environment where ransomware attacks and data breaches are becoming more sophisticated and frequent.
Upgrade and replacement planning
The Windows 10 end of support deadline presents an opportunity to strategically evaluate your entire IT infrastructure. Rather than simply upgrading operating systems, consider how this transition can address broader business challenges and position your organisation for future growth.
Here are three actions you can take immediately to prepare:
1. Conduct a comprehensive IT asset audit
Document all devices running Windows 10 across your organisation and assess their hardware specifications. Determine which systems can be upgraded to Windows 11 and which will require replacement. This inventory will form the foundation of your transition strategy and help you budget accurately for the upgrade process.
2. Develop a phased migration timeline
Create a detailed upgrade schedule that prioritises critical systems while minimising business disruption. Consider factors such as staff availability, peak business periods and dependencies between systems. Starting with non-critical systems allows you to identify and resolve issues before upgrading mission-critical infrastructure.
3. Evaluate your overall IT strategy
Use this transition as an opportunity to assess whether your current IT approach is serving your business goals effectively. Consider cloud-based solutions, modern device management tools and security frameworks that can improve efficiency while reducing long-term maintenance costs.
The clock is ticking
While there might seem like adequate time to plan, the reality is that successful IT transitions require careful coordination to avoid business disruption. Hardware assessments, software compatibility testing, staff training and data migration all take time. Attempting to rush these processes often leads to costly mistakes and productivity losses.
Smart business leaders are already beginning their planning process, recognising that proactive preparation is far more cost-effective than reactive scrambling as the deadline approaches.
Ready to secure your business's future? Contact Netway today to discuss how we can help you navigate the Windows 10 end of support transition smoothly and strategically. Our experienced team can assess your current infrastructure, develop a customised migration plan and ensure your business remains secure and compliant throughout the process.
Let us help you turn this necessary transition into a competitive advantage.
Update:
Microsoft has announced a Windows 10 Extended Security Updates (ESU) program that gives businesses the option to continue receiving security updates on their Windows 10 devices for up to three additional years. The pricing starts at USD$61 per device for the first year and doubling each subsequent year. However, ESU coverage is limited to security updates only and it does not include new features, non-security updates, design changes or general technical support for Windows 10 itself. For the most secure computing experience, it is still highly recommended for businesses to upgrade eligible devices to Windows 11 before the 14 October 2025 deadline.