Microsoft has announced it is ending support for the Windows 10 Operating System on October 14, 2025. This means Microsoft will no longer offer security updates, technical support, or patches for the long-standing operating system. Organizations should plan now for how to upgrade to Windows 11 before support ends to prevent risks from running unsupported software.
If you’re already on Windows 11, there is nothing to worry about. But if your business is still using Windows 10, it might be worth planning an upgrade in the near future to avoid potential risks and disruptions.
Risks of Not Upgrading to Windows 11
System vulnerability
Any vulnerabilities discovered after the end of life for Windows 10 would not be resolved, leaving your system and business exposed to digital threats.
Compliance failure
Operating systems that are no longer supported by the manufacturer may fail to comply with industry regulations and standards. Compliance frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS often mandate the use of supported and secure software. Non-compliance can also result in significant fines and reputational damage.
Out-of-date software and apps
Newer apps and software will no longer be compatible with your system, as developers would be focused on supporting the newest operating systems.
Operational disruptions
Without ongoing support and updates, you may encounter compatibility issues with software and hardware, leading to operational inefficiencies. Critical business applications may cease to function optimally, impacting productivity and service delivery.
Less file protection
Along with the system vulnerability, your files and data are now at high risk, and with the lower security, potential hackers and cyber threats can get through and corrupt or steal your data.
Benefits of Upgrading to Windows 11
Windows 11 Has Increased Security
For those migrating to Windows 11, the system is much more secure and resistant to malware and other potential threats.
“New Windows 11 PCs are more secure, with a reported 62% drop in security incidents and 3x reported reduction in firmware attacks.”
“Features like secure boot, virtualization-based security, memory integrity, Secured-core PC, the vulnerable driver block list, Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) defaults contribute to the additional security as compared with Windows 10 devices.”
Source: How to prepare for Windows 10 end of support by moving to Windows 11 today | Windows Experience Blog
Built-in generative AI — Copilot
Microsoft’s generative AI tool Copilot, combines the most relevant updated data using ChatGPT and Bing web-scraping, quickly becoming the favored AI assistant for Windows 11 users.
Improved included apps
All apps that are included in Windows 10 are much improved when making the move to Windows 11, including a better overall experience with music and podcast players, a new video editor app, a refreshed screenshot tool, and focus sessions.
Consistent and appealing interface
Windows 11 is a professional grade interface, including easy to navigate tools and menus, monitor docking, all new organizational layout tools and widgets, HDR performance, and a more visually appealing interface.
How Can Businesses Prepare to Upgrade to Windows 11?
Assess current systems
Identify all devices running Windows 10 and evaluate their roles and criticality. Determine if there are integrations or instances where additional measures need to be taken prior to updating to Windows 11. Assess application compatibility, particularly any non-Microsoft security or endpoint management solutions, to ensure that they function as expected on Windows 11.
Install updates
Ensure all Windows and system updates are installed to the latest supported versions. If there are other updates your business has been putting off, plan to begin them so they don’t hold up your transition to Windows 11.
Evaluate device compatibility
If you have a mix of devices on different versions, you will need to evaluate the compatibility of moving to Windows 11. Things to consider are the type of hardware, system firmware, and Windows version each machine is currently running and whether the update path varies between categories of devices.
Check your device specs against Microsoft’s Windows 11 compatibility to see if they are compatible to move to Windows 11. Windows Update also offers a way to assess upgrade eligibility. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Evaluate your infrastructure and tools
Before deploying Windows 11, assess your deployment infrastructure (tools such as Configuration Manager, Microsoft Intune, or other similar) and current configurations (including security baselines, administrative templates, and policies that impact updates). Do you have the right tools in place for a successful deployment? Do you have proper settings and policies defined to support devices on Windows 11?
Back up your files
Your organization likely already regularly backs up important data (if not, now is a great time to start!). However, it is worth a quick exercise to take an updated backup and test the recovery process to guarantee that your backups are functional, easy to implement, and work as intended. This allows you to easily roll back an OS update if it ends up having unintended consequences that you need to resolve.
Plan for a budget
Develop a timeline and budget for upgrading your systems to a supported operating system, such as Windows 11. Determine if you have the resources and experience in-house to update to Windows 11 or whether you will need to supplement with an IT partner and the costs associated with it for your budget.
Create a Windows 11 deployment plan
The optimal approach to transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 depends on the size, complexity, and specific needs of your endpoint environment.
Create a catalog of compatible devices to upgrade to Windows 11. Document and outline the Windows 11 deployment process. Run preview builds on a pilot group of machines and virtual devices. Create a timeline with assigned resources to reduce downtime. Engage with Microsoft or a Microsoft Partner for additional guidance and support.
Consider approaches such as upgrading devices with Windows Autopilot and Microsoft Intune, reimaging Windows 10 machines with disk cloning software, or reimaging with file-based computer imaging software.
Prepare your support team
Prepare communications on rollout dates, offer training, and prepare materials to ease the transition process for your team. Even with training on the new system, expect an influx of support requests to your IT helpdesk as users get acquainted with the new user interface and functionality.
Moving to Windows 11 for Business
For those that do not think they can make the October 2025 cutoff, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) at an additional cost per license. ESUs will include critical security updates for Windows 10 PCs without any new features and design changes. That said, ESUs are meant to only be a temporary solution and will not exist for longer than three years. The best route for businesses looking to make the most of their workplace technology and plan for the future is to move to a more modern and evolved OS such as the upgrade to Windows 11.
The keys to a successful transition are consistent with any OS upgrade or feature update: do the research, base your decisions on data, utilize tools and features to streamline tasks or entire phases of the process, and prioritize the safety, security, and productivity of end users through technology, change management, training, and communication.
