The staple of business environments is coming to an end. For nearly a decade, Windows 10 has been the operating system for many businesses in Oxford.
But as the final countdown to end-of-life draws closer, it’s time for local businesses to face an important decision: upgrade to Windows 11, find a stopgap solution, or risk staying with outdated software.
Let’s explore what Windows 10 end-of-life means, the associated security risks, and how our expert managed IT support can help you navigate the road ahead.
What Is Windows 10 End-of-Life?
End-of-life refers to the date Microsoft stops supporting a product with security updates, patches, and technical support. For Windows 10, this date is 14th October 2025. After this point, no new security updates will be released – leaving any machines still running the OS vulnerable to newly discovered threats.
However, recent data reveals that only 38% of UK businesses have a defined migration strategy in preparation for Windows 10 end-of-life. That means millions of organisations are now racing against the clock to upgrade or secure their systems. Oxford businesses need to act now to avoid being caught out.
The Security Risks of Staying on Windows 10
Staying on unsupported software is more than just a small technical inconvenience. It has the potential to cause major cyber security issues, posing a significant liability. Windows 10 security risks include:
- Known vulnerabilities: Once support ends, cybercriminals can exploit existing weaknesses in the OS without fear of Microsoft patching them.
- Zero-day exploits: These are previously unknown threats. After end-of-life, any new vulnerabilities discovered will go unaddressed.
- Compliance issues: If your organisation must comply with standards like Cyber Essentials or ISO 27001, using unsupported software may put your certification at risk.
- Increased exploitation risks: Without regular updates, your system becomes a soft target for ransomware, phishing attacks, and malware.
These issues underscore the very real and growing security risks of Windows 10 after its end of life.
Is Windows 11 More Secure?
Ultimately, yes – Windows 11 was designed with modern threats in mind and includes several built-in security enhancements:
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0: This is a security chip found in newer computers – a hardware-based security feature designed to protect against firmware-level attacks.
- Secure Boot: Prevents malicious software from loading during the startup process.
- Virtualisation-based security (VBS): Isolates parts of the OS to protect critical processes and credentials.
Independent benchmarks have shown Windows 11 is significantly more resilient against modern attacks than its predecessor. For Oxford businesses handling sensitive data or operating in regulated industries, the added protection could make a substantial difference.
Is Refreshing Windows 10 a Viable Stopgap?
For some businesses in Oxford, performing a refresh of Windows 10 – like a clean installation or major in-place upgrade – can serve as a temporary measure to improve performance and stability.
A refresh can benefit all parts of your business, including updating or reconfiguring your network infrastructure to boost overall performance, improve connectivity, and address vulnerabilities.
However, it’s important to recognise that while these actions can stabilise your IT environment temporarily, they do not extend Microsoft’s official support deadline. The limitations of relying on a refresh of Windows 10 include:
- No security updates beyond October 2025, regardless of how up-to-date your system is at the time.
- Compliance risks for organisations handling sensitive or regulated data.
- Potential compatibility issues with newer software and services.
- Increased exposure if network devices or endpoints remain unprotected.
While refreshing, Windows 10 can support a phased migration; it’s not a long-term solution. To maintain strong cyber security, compliance, and operational continuity, upgrading to Windows 11 should remain the end goal.
EAC Network Solutions: Helping Oxford Businesses Prepare
At EAC Network Solutions, we are here to support Oxford businesses as they navigate Windows 10 security risks. Whether you’re in the public sector, a growing SME, or managing a complex IT environment, we help you build a practical, phased action plan:
- Audit and Assessment: We’ll review your current infrastructure, evaluate device compatibility, and flag security concerns.
- Pilot Windows 11 Deployments: Test Windows 11 in a controlled environment to ensure it meets your operational needs.
- Staff Training: Empower your team with hands-on guidance and training to minimise disruption.
- Backup and Rollback Strategies: Ensure your data is protected and rollbacks are possible if needed.
- Local Oxford Support: Our team is based nearby, offering prompt on-site assistance when required.
Book a Free OS Security Consultation Today
Windows 10 is on borrowed time, and the risks of ignoring its end-of-life are growing every day. With known vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and missed opportunities for improved security, the message is clear: now’s the time to act.
Whether you’re looking to refresh Windows 10 temporarily or plan your full migration to Windows 11, we are your trusted local partner in Oxford. We’ll help you avoid the end-of-life software risks and ensure your transition is secure, smooth, and future-ready.
Book your free OS security consultation today and build a smarter upgrade plan for your Oxford-based business.
