Windows 10 End of Life is on the horizon — what does this mean for you?
The risks of avoiding the Windows 11 update.
As support for Windows 10 begins to wind down, organisations must consider the impact this will have on security, performance, and future compatibility. Upgrading to Windows 11 not only provides access to modern features and improved productivity tools — including enhanced Copilot capabilities powered by AI — but also ensures continued support from Microsoft.
While many businesses are embracing the upgrade to take advantage of new technologies, others are doing so to mitigate risk. Running unsupported software can expose systems to vulnerabilities, compatibility issues, and operational inefficiencies.
There are several important consequences of not upgrading to Windows 11. Read the article below to understand how these issues could impact you directly.
1. Increases the risk of vulnerabilities
When Windows 10 reaches End of Life in October 2025, your device will no longer receive updates, including critical security patches, from Microsoft.
These security updates are essential for protecting your system from newly discovered vulnerabilities. Without them, your device becomes significantly more vulnerable to cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, and unauthorised access.
While many systems apply updates automatically, it's crucial to regularly check that your device is up to date — especially in environments where automatic updates may be disabled or delayed.
After the EoL date, Microsoft will stop releasing these patches, leaving unsupported systems increasingly exposed. To maintain protection and compatibility, it is strongly recommended that users upgrade to Windows 11 well before support for Windows 10 officially ends.
2. Compliance issues
Failure to maintain up-to-date security patches can result in compliance issues across many industries. Keeping your systems patched is often a mandatory requirement to meet standards such as Cyber Essentials, NIST 2, and other regulatory frameworks.
Neglecting these updates not only risks non-compliance but may also invalidate any existing cyber insurance policies, leaving your organisation unprotected in the event of a breach.
Regular patching reduces security risks for both your organisation and your clients. Continuing to operate on an unsupported operating system can expose you to legal liabilities and potential fines should a cyber breach occur.
3. Performance issues
Avoiding the Windows 11 update can lead to performance issues on your machine, such as slow loading times, lag, and incompatibility with newer apps.
This occurs because the old software will struggle to keep up with newer applications and workloads that are better supported through Windows 11. Upgrading to Windows 11 before Windows 10 EoL is essential if you want to avoid these kinds of issues.
4. No more technical support
Microsoft offer technical support in the form of regular updates, security patches, and feature enhancements. This allows your machine to run smoothly with minimal interruptions.
However, if you are still using Windows 10 software by October this year, you will no longer receive any of these features. This can result in technical issues such as security problems, slow loading times and lag.
To avoid this, it’s important to upgrade your system to Windows 11 before the October 14th deadline.
5. Enhanced new features
The Windows 11 update comes with brand new features to help you stay ahead of the game.
With a more integrated co-pilot feature, to a modern user interface and higher performance, Windows 11 is sure to improve the way you work.
It’s also important to keep in mind that with Windows 10 EoL on the horizon, competitors in your industry may also be considering upgrading to the new software. It’s important to make sure your technology keeps up with the demands of your industry, and that you stay ahead of the game.
There are many reasons to upgrade to Windows 11 before the Windows 10 EoL deadline. We know that making the jump to new software can be daunting – that’s why we’re here.
At Vibrant Networks, we’re offering free health checks to companies with five machines or more in Walsall, Birmingham, and the rest of the West Midlands. This will help you to find out whether your machines are compatible with Windows 11, and allows us to help you to upgrade. If you’re interested in our help with a health check or PC upgrade, contact us today!
