Windows 10 end of life is on October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft will no longer patch Windows 10, resulting in every machine with Windows 10 becoming a security risk. The current version, 22H2, is the final security update for Windows 10.
We have already automatically upgraded most systems at all clients from Windows 10 to 11 where the system specifications we able to support Windows 11. It is our strong recommendation that any remaining machines running Windows 10 be replaced now. Keep in mind that waiting until the end of the upgrade cycle will likely result in increased demand and higher prices.
The Windows 10 end of life deadline means that systems with Windows 10 will no longer be eligible for technical fixes or security fixes. This will leave more room for threat actors to find and exploit vulnerabilities.
The Risks of Not Upgrading to Windows 11
Continuing to use Windows 10 after October 14, 2025, poses significant security risks. Without regular updates and patches from Microsoft, Windows 10 systems will become increasingly susceptible to exploitation by threat actors. This lack of support translates to a higher likelihood of security breaches, data loss, compliance issues, and stolen personal information. These risks are especially true for businesses.
Computer and peripheral vendors will also drop support for Windows 10, leading to out-of-date drivers for hardware in and around your machine. Combined with the security risks mentioned above, these lead to an increased chance of incompatibilities with existing hardware, and potential data loss or corruption, with difficult or impossible recovery.
It isn’t all vulnerabilities and fear, however: an upgraded system means improved performance and more efficient RAM usage. The benefits far outweigh the inconvenience of upgrading software or replacing the device. It is better to act now than regret that you didn’t.
How to Upgrade to Windows 11
If your operating system meets the minimum operating system requirements, the upgrade from Microsoft Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free. We are happy to check and implement any applicable upgrades for our clients. For those who want to check themselves, navigate to Settings > Privacy and Security > Windows Update.
Otherwise, an older PC will need to be replaced by a new device that meets those requirements to receive the security benefits of Windows 11. This needs to be completed before the Windows 10 EOL date, October 14, 2025.
This might seem like an unnecessary headache, but keeping the old software means keeping every vulnerability that hackers already know exist in an older system, without the protection of security updates. If your current operating system is able to be upgraded to Windows 11, doing so is a no-brainer.
New Features in Windows 11
A new PC will have Windows 11 automatically. Windows 11 features some quality-of-life updates, like a more streamlined UI, live captions, and smart recommendations in the Start menu and File explorer. The security changes, however, are even more exciting.
With Windows 11, when you walk away from their device, it is automatically locked. Even better, the device will wake up when you come back. This protects someone from in-person threat actors who might seize the opportunity of an unlocked device.
Smart App Control will block any disreputable apps from being downloaded, further protecting you from human error.
Most excitingly, Windows Hello introduced passkeys, which are a form of authentication that is typically more secure than traditional passwords. When signing onto sites and apps who support it, a user will log in with their username and passkey.
Unlike passwords, passkeys cannot be phished or stolen. They can live on an authenticator app on a phone or a password manager and often include an additional form of user verification, such as a password, PIN, or biometrics. Examples of biometrics verification include Face ID or Touch ID. This makes signing on easier and more secure.
Conclusion
The impending end of life for Windows 10 is a call to action for all users. Upgrading to Windows 11 is not just a matter of embracing new features that will assist operations but also needed for critical security updates to ensure security and compliance.
Stay ahead of threats by upgrading systems today.