It’s happening y’all! We are counting down the final months of life for Windows 10.  

*NOTE* This article is for anyone who uses a computer and/or relies on computers for their business to function. In short, everyone. 

Literally everyone needs to know if they have devices running Windows 10. 

Also, 10 points for anyone who knows the name of the band responsible for the musical masterpiece referenced in the title of this blog. An additional 10 points if you can name the album. (Answers provided at the end of article) 

When Windows 10 reaches its End of Life (EOL), which is scheduled for October 14, 2025, it will no longer receive support or updates from Microsoft. Here’s what that means for businesses and individual users: 

1. No More Security Updates 

• Increased Vulnerability: Microsoft will stop releasing security patches and updates for Windows 10. Any newly discovered vulnerabilities will remain unpatched, making your system more vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and cyberattacks. 

• Compliance Risks: If your business operates in a regulated industry (e.g., finance, healthcare), using unsupported software may put you out of compliance with industry regulations, which often require up-to-date and secure systems. 

2. No Bug Fixes or Feature Updates 

• System Instability: Bugs or glitches that are discovered after the EOL date will not be fixed, potentially leading to system instability or degraded performance over time. 

• Lack of New Features: There will be no new features, enhancements, or performance improvements. The operating system will remain static, while new hardware and software innovations may not be compatible. 

3. Compatibility Issues 

• Software Compatibility: New software releases will gradually stop supporting Windows 10. Developers typically prioritize compatibility with supported operating systems, so you may find that newer applications won’t install or run correctly. 

• Hardware Compatibility: New hardware, such as printers, graphics cards, and peripherals, may not have drivers that work with Windows 10. This can make it difficult to upgrade or expand your system. 

4. Reduced Support from Third-Party Vendors 

• Limited Third-Party Support: Many third-party software and hardware vendors will discontinue support for their products on Windows 10 after EOL. This includes antivirus software, business applications, and device drivers. 

• Decreased Service Options: IT support services may no longer provide assistance for issues related to Windows 10, as they will recommend upgrading to a supported operating system. 

5. Potential Security and Legal Liability 

• Data Breach Risks: Running an unsupported OS increases the risk of a data breach. If a breach occurs due to vulnerabilities in an outdated system, it could lead to legal repercussions, especially if sensitive customer data is compromised. 

• Insurance and Liability Issues: Cybersecurity insurance policies may not cover damages if an unsupported operating system is in use, as this could be seen as negligence. 

6. Increased Maintenance Costs 

• Higher IT Costs: Keeping an EOL operating system secure requires extra effort from IT teams, including implementing compensating controls, restricting internet access, or using third-party security solutions, all of which can increase costs. 

• Downtime and Productivity Loss: As the system ages and becomes less reliable, users may face more frequent issues, leading to productivity loss and increased downtime. 

What Should You Do Before Windows 10 Reaches EOL? 

1. Plan for an Upgrade 

• Upgrade to Windows 11: If your hardware supports it, consider upgrading to Windows 11, which offers enhanced security features, a refreshed interface, and continued support. 

• Evaluate Other Options: If your hardware does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, you may need to upgrade your hardware or consider alternative operating systems (e.g., Linux) if that fits your business needs. 

2. Assess Your Current Hardware 

• Check Compatibility: Verify if your current PCs meet the system requirements for Windows 11. If not, you may need to budget for new hardware. 

• Test Critical Software: Ensure that all business-critical software and peripherals work with the new OS before making the switch. 

3. Develop a Migration Plan 

• Create a Timeline: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start planning your migration well before the EOL date to avoid rushed decisions and disruptions. 

• Data Backup and Migration: Ensure that all important data is backed up before upgrading. Plan for data migration and testing to minimize the risk of data loss. 

4. Consider Extended Security Updates (ESU) 

• Extended Support Options: In some cases, Microsoft may offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for businesses that need more time to complete the transition. This option is typically available for enterprise customers but comes with an additional cost. 

5. Educate Your Users 

• Inform Employees: Ensure that your employees are aware of the upcoming changes and provide training if needed, especially if you’re upgrading to a new OS with a different user interface. 

When Windows 10 reaches End of Life, the lack of updates and support will increase security risks, lead to compatibility issues, and potentially disrupt business operations. To avoid these problems, businesses and users should start planning their migration to a supported operating system well in advance. Upgrading to Windows 11 or another supported OS will help ensure continued security, compliance, and access to new features. 

Need assistance determining which Windows system is running on your devices? We can help! We can also help secure your entire IT infrastructure.  

Contact Structured Technology Solutions – [email protected]  

**The Final Countdown was written by singer Joey Tempest from Swedish rockband, Europe. The song appeared on their album The Final Countdown and was released in May 1986. Please give all credit for the title of this blog to them.