Windows 10 is heading for end-of-life on the 14th of October 2025, but it’s not just another routine update – it’s actually a lot more serious than that. When Microsoft ends support, it won’t just stop releasing new features. It will put a stop to vital security updates, leaving any business still relying on the system completely exposed to cyber threats.
Unsupported systems like Windows 10 quickly become a magnet for attackers. The longer the delay in upgrading, the greater the risk of data breaches, compliance failures, and costly downtime. The National Cyber Security Centre warns that outdated software “makes high-impact security incidents more likely,” noting that attackers can exploit “remotely accessible vulnerabilities, which can have a catastrophic impact across an entire organisation.”
Rather than treating Windows 11 migration as a simple refresh, it should be seen as a strategic cyber security upgrade. This blog explores the risks of staying put, walks through the migration process, and shows how managed IT support can make the switch seamless and secure.
The Risks of Staying on Unsupported Systems
When Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, you can’t quite expect to just carry on as normal. Things might seem the same on the surface, but as soon as support stops, it will actively introduce risk into your IT environment. Unsupported systems no longer receive security patches, leaving known vulnerabilities wide open to exploitation. Unfortunately, it’s a problem that’s far too frequent – according to the Cyber Breaches Survey 2025, applying software updates ranked as one of the least common rules and controls put in place by businesses to minimise cyber risk.
Cybercriminals are quick to take advantage of these weaknesses. Without protection against newly discovered threats, unsupported devices become easy entry points for malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. And once inside, attackers can move laterally across your network – potentially affecting every device, user, and file.
For businesses handling sensitive data or subject to industry regulations, the risks multiply. Compliance standards like GDPR, Cyber Essentials, and sector-specific requirements demand that software is kept up-to-date. Running an unsupported operating system could jeopardise your compliance status and lead to reputational damage or financial penalties.
What’s more, outdated systems can also affect performance and compatibility. As software vendors optimise for Windows 11, older platforms will struggle to keep up – leading to unstable systems, software conflicts, and frustrated teams.
Put simply, delaying your Windows 11 migration doesn’t buy you time. It buys you risk.
The Business Impact of Delaying Migration
The longer your business stays on Windows 10 after its end-of-life, the more vulnerable and inefficient your operations become. But it’s not just about exposure to threats; it’s also about the real-world consequences that follow.
Disruption and Downtime
Without ongoing updates, the chances of system crashes, malware infections, or software conflicts jump up. Not only can things get expensive quickly (the median cost of downtime for small businesses is £7500), but for industries like manufacturing, education, or care—where uptime is crucial—it can also result in:
- Missed deadlines or lost productivity
- Disruption to service users or students
- Damage to your reputation
Strain on Staff and IT Resources
Many organisations rely on small IT teams or non-technical staff who’ve taken on support roles by default. Delaying migration adds to their burden:
- Constant troubleshooting of preventable issues
- Time wasted on workarounds and fixes
- Stress from trying to manage unsupported systems
Barriers to Business Growth
Old systems limit what your business can do. Delaying Windows 11 migration holds back:
- Adoption of cloud-based tools and modern software
- Streamlined remote and hybrid working
- Integration with more secure, efficient platforms
The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to keep up. Postponing a necessary upgrade means falling behind, not just on technology, but on the productivity, resilience, and scalability it enables.
Switching Seamlessly: The Windows 11 Migration Process
There are plenty of reasons why businesses might initially put off migrating to Windows 11, one being that the thought of migrating to a new operating system can feel daunting – especially for businesses that rely on complex setups or bespoke software. But with a structured approach, the move to Windows 11 doesn’t have to disrupt your day-to-day operations.
Here’s how a smooth, secure migration should look:
- Audit Your Devices and Software
Start by identifying which hardware and applications can support Windows 11 and which can’t. This helps determine:
- Devices that are ready to upgrade
- Systems that may need replacing
- Applications that require compatibility checks
A thorough audit beforehand helps to avoid any surprises mid-migration.
- Create a Clear Scope of Work
Once the audit is complete, a scope of work should be drawn up. This includes:
- A full breakdown of tasks and timelines
- Hardware or licensing costs (if replacements are needed)
- A clear plan that gives you full visibility and control
This clarity helps you budget confidently and plan ahead.
- Schedule the Rollout to Minimise Disruption
With the groundwork done, the migration can be scheduled in phases, ensuring:
- Key systems remain operational throughout
- Employees experience minimal downtime
- The change is carefully managed around your team’s workflow
The right planning makes the process feel seamless, rather than stressful.
More Than a System Refresh
Moving to Windows 11 isn’t just about keeping up with the latest software—it’s a smart way to strengthen your business’s defences. While it may seem like a routine update, Windows 11 includes important changes that help protect your systems against today’s growing cyber threats.
Better Built-In Protection
While you’ll already have the baseline security that’s inherent to running the latest software, Windows 11 also has security features that are switched on by default to help stop threats before they cause damage. These include:
- Tools that stop unauthorised software from running during start-up
- Extra layers of protection to keep important processes separate from potential attacks
- Support for more secure devices right out of the box
Stronger Defences Against Cyber Threats
Older systems are more likely to be targeted by attackers. Without up-to-date protection, your business could be exposed to:
- Malware or ransomware attacks
- Phishing emails that steal login details
- New and unknown threats that Windows 10 can’t defend against
Windows 11 is designed to help block these risks before they reach your team or your data.
Helping You Stay Compliant and Prepared
Many industries now expect businesses to use supported, secure systems. Upgrading makes it easier to:
- Meet requirements like Cyber Essentials or GDPR
- Avoid fines or legal issues caused by weak systems
- Keep operations running smoothly, even if something goes wrong
If your business handles sensitive information—or simply wants to stay secure and competitive—upgrading to Windows 11 is critical.
Take the Next Step with EAC
At EAC Network Solutions, we take a security-first approach to every upgrade – delivering clear plans, minimal disruption, and complete peace of mind. We make sure upgrading becomes an opportunity to strengthen your security, improve performance, and future-proof your systems.
With support for Windows 10 ending soon, the choice is clear: upgrade now or face growing risks later. From security gaps and compliance issues to productivity slowdowns, the consequences of delaying a Windows 11 migration can hit a lot harder and faster than many businesses expect.
Book your free consultation with us today, and we’ll assess your current setup, highlight any risks, and provide a tailored plan to help you move forward confidently.
