Don’t wait to address Windows 10 end-of-life

In less than a year, Microsoft will end all support for Windows 10, which still commands a nearly 65% market share. Come October 14, 2025, businesses that continue to rely on this operating system will face significant security and operational risks. With so much at stake, it’s critical to start planning your transition now to avoid any disruptions to your company.

Why is Microsoft ending support for Windows 10?

The operation system has served as a workhorse since its launch in 2015, quickly capturing significant business traffic across North America. However, as technology evolves, so do the requirements for maintaining secure and efficient systems. 

Microsoft’s decision to end support is a natural progression toward more updated solutions like Windows 11, which includes built-in security features, enhanced performance capabilities, and support for emerging technologies.

But what does “end of support” really mean? After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive critical security patches or updates. Without these protections, your business could be exposed to:

• Security vulnerabilities. Outdated systems are a prime target for cyberattacks, and hackers routinely target applications around the announced end-of-support dates.
• Operational instability. As other software becomes incompatible with an outdated operating system, you’ll experience more crashes and disruptions.
• Increased costs. Some businesses opt to purchase extended service updates (ESUs) that allow them to receive customized support for outdated applications. But this can be far costlier than software upgrades—and still won’t protect you from all risks.

The business case for upgrading.

For many businesses, upgrading feels like a hassle—especially when everything seems to be working fine. However, sticking with an outdated operating system is risky and can affect your company’s bottom line in several ways. CMIT Solutions has more than 25 years of experience protecting businesses from the following threats: 

• Security risks. When support ends, your system is left open to significant vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals target older systems knowing they are unpatched, and businesses running unsupported software become easy marks for ransomware, malware, and phishing attacks. This can lead to data breaches, lost revenue, and damaged reputations.
• Operational efficiency. With each new version of Windows, Microsoft introduces performance enhancements, improved productivity tools, and smoother workflows. By staying on Windows 10, your team could miss out on these benefits, limiting overall efficiency. Over time, software compatibility issues may also cause disruptions, leading to downtime that impacts your ability to serve customers.
• Regulatory compliance. Many industries such as finance, healthcare, and legal require businesses to use supported software that meets compliance standards. Running outdated systems can threaten the stability of your business, leading to fines, legal consequences, or reputational risks. Keeping your technology up to date ensures you meet industry regulations and avoid these costly penalties.

​​Preparing for the Windows 10 end-of-service deadline.

To ensure a smooth transition, it’s important to start planning your upgrade or replacement strategy at least six months before the target end-of-support date. Here’s how CMIT Solutions can help your business prepare in the coming months: 

• Assess your current systems. Take stock of all the computers in your organization that still run on Windows 10. Evaluate each machine’s age, performance, and ability to support Windows 11. Microsoft provides a PC Health Check tool that can help you determine whether your systems meet the minimum hardware requirements. Machines less than three years old are usually good candidates for an upgrade. Older devices may struggle to meet Windows 11’s requirements and should be considered for replacement.
• Develop an upgrade plan. Once you know which devices can be upgraded, create a roadmap for how and when to execute the upgrades. Prioritize machines that handle critical business functions and allocate budget for both hardware and software needs. Phase in upgrades over time to avoid overwhelming your IT resources. Factor in the cost of new hardware and any additional software licenses if needed.
• Back up your data. Before upgrading or replacing machines, ensure all important data is backed up. While regular backups should already be part of your IT strategy, this is an opportunity to ensure redundancy and reliability. In addition to cloud services, consider maintaining physical backups for added security.
• Use cloud storage. Solutions like Microsoft OneDrive or Google Drive offer easy options for syncing and backing up files.
• Test for compatibility. Ensure your key software applications will work smoothly on Windows 11. Some legacy systems might not transition easily and may require updates or alternatives. This is especially true for industries that rely on specialized software built for legacy operating systems.
• Run pilot tests: Before deploying Windows 11 across your entire organization, test the new OS on a handful of machines to identify any compatibility issues. If you use custom applications, a trusted IT provider like CMIT Solutions can confirm compatibility or find workarounds.

Avoiding the risks of extended service updates (ESUs).

Some businesses may consider purchasing Extended Service Updates (ESUs) as a temporary measure. However, relying on these updates comes with downsides. Microsoft’s ESUs for outdated operating systems can start at more than $50 per device in the first year but quickly rise in price, exceeding $200 per device in year three. 

ESUs only cover select security updates, leaving your system vulnerable to other risks. ESUs also don’t cover hardware or driver issues, meaning any malfunctions must be handled internally. While ESUs can buy some time, they are not a long-term solution. For most businesses, upgrading to Windows 11 or replacing outdated devices is a smarter strategy.

Work with a trusted IT partner.

Upgrading your systems can seem like a daunting task—but with the help of a trusted IT partner, it can actually lead to a competitive, cost-effective advantage. At CMIT Solutions, we assist businesses so they can transition seamlessly and avoid disruptions. 

We use a tried-and-true system to conduct system assessments that identify which machines need upgrading. We develop customized transition plans based on your unique needs. We ensure proper data backups and compatibility testing. And we train employees on how to use new systems while staying current on ongoing education. 

The bottom line: Start planning now.

The end-of-service deadline for Windows 10 is still nearly a year away, but waiting until the last minute to upgrade could leave your business vulnerable to security risks and operational headaches. 

By assessing your current systems, developing a clear upgrade plan, and working with a reliable IT partner like CMIT Solutions, you can ensure a smooth, secure transition to Windows 11. Now is the time to act—don’t wait until your systems are at risk.  

Contact us today to develop a plan.