Windows 10 Support Will End – Here’s What You Need to Do!

  • 29 January 2025
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Windows 10 Support What to Do

Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. If your IT provider hasn’t informed you about this yet, it’s time to ask why.

When Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, it will no longer receive security updates or technical support. This means businesses that fail to upgrade risk increased security vulnerabilities, software compatibility issues, and potential compliance problems. For creative agencies, PR firms, and marketing teams that rely on effective collaboration and secure client data, ignoring this change isn’t an option.

  • So, what should you be doing now to stay ahead of this transition?

1. Do You Know Which Devices Need Upgrading?

Your business needs a clear inventory of all company devices. Not all machines running Windows 10 will be eligible for a simple upgrade to Windows 11. Older devices may not meet Microsoft’s minimum system requirements, which means they will need replacing.
Your IT provider should already have a report available, showing:
  • Which devices are currently running Windows 10
  • Whether they meet the system requirements for Windows 11
  • What the cost of upgrading will be (software and labour)
  • How long the upgrade process will take per device
If they haven’t provided this, ask them why not.

 

2. What’s the Cost of IT Support for Upgrading?

Even if your PCs can handle Windows 11, the upgrade process isn’t just a simple install. It requires:
  • Backup planning to ensure no data is lost during the upgrade.
  • Device reconfiguration so that settings, software, and security policies remain intact.
  • Testing and troubleshooting to verify everything works as expected post-upgrade.
This all takes IT support time – and time costs money. Understanding the true cost of an OS upgrade now will allow you to budget appropriately, rather than scrambling at the last minute.

 

3. What Do Employees Work From During Upgrades?

For a creative or marketing agency, having a PC out of action for even a few hours can mean lost productivity and missed deadlines.
Consider:
  • Staggered upgrades to avoid disrupting multiple team members at once.
  • Temporary workstations or loan devices if the upgrade process takes longer than expected.
  • Cloud-based workflows to enable team members to continue working from other devices during the transition.
A good IT provider will help you create a zero-downtime plan so that your business operations aren’t disrupted.

 

4. Should You Replace Older PCs Instead?

If a PC is more than 4–5 years old, upgrading may not be the best investment. While an upgrade might seem cheaper, the reality is that an older machine may still struggle with performance, security, and compatibility issues.
Factors to consider when deciding between an upgrade or replacement:
  • Hardware limitations: If a PC doesn’t meet the minimum Windows 11 requirements, upgrading is off the table.
  • Performance impact: Will an older machine run Windows 11 smoothly, or will it slow down over time?
  • Future-proofing: Buying new devices now may save money in the long run compared to paying for short-term fixes.
Your IT provider should be guiding you on the best course of action based on your budget and business needs.

 

5. What’s the Risk of Doing Nothing?

Let’s be clear: running Windows 10 after support ends is a security risk.
With no security updates, cybercriminals will actively target outdated systems because they know vulnerabilities won’t be patched.
Potential risks include:
  • Increased malware and ransomware threats
  • Data breaches and regulatory compliance issues (especially for businesses handling client data)
  • Software compatibility problems as new applications stop supporting Windows 10
If your IT provider hasn’t raised these concerns with you, it’s a red flag.

 

What Should You Do Now?

  1. Request a system audit: Your IT provider should deliver a report detailing all devices and their upgrade status.
  2. Plan your upgrade strategy: Decide whether to upgrade existing machines or replace them, and determine IT support costs.
  3. Budget accordingly: Consider both short-term upgrade costs and long-term benefits of new hardware.
  4. Schedule upgrades early to avoid last-minute disruptions.

 

If your current IT provider isn’t being proactive about this change, it may be time to reconsider your IT support partner. At Cubit Technology, we specialise in helping creative and marketing agencies stay ahead of IT challenges.

 

Need a Windows 10 end-of-life strategy? Get in touch today to discuss your upgrade plan and ensure your business stays secure and productive.