Support Timelines
Microsoft generally releases software with a defined support timeline of 5-years from end of sale for normal Windows desktop operating systems. Windows 10 will be reaching its end of life (EOL), on October 14th, 2025. This means that as of this date, Microsoft will no longer support the operating system and Windows 10 will not receive any security updates.
Upgrading systems to Windows 11 will ensure your organization is not impacted by these support deadlines. Additionally, Windows 11 offers numerous advantages over Windows 10 that make upgrading all the more enticing. However, given the potential costs in upgrading, planning your upgrades today will help avoid unexpected costs as the deadlines get nearer.
Reducing Cybersecurity Risk
There is a sizable cybersecurity risk surrounding the continued use of Windows 10 past its EOL. When a new software version is released, it comes with a number of security patches and updates. If you keep operating a system that has reached its EOL, your system is running with those unpatched vulnerabilities. Since the old software is no longer evolving, it is only a matter of time before the actors find a vulnerability and strike. The UK’s National Health Service experienced an attack for this same reason in 2017 during the switch from Windows 7 to Windows 10 resulting in $100 million dollars of damage and closed emergency rooms. It is critical to update to Windows 11 to maintain good cybersecurity posture and reduce the risk of threat.
Preparing For Windows 11
Identifying which systems need to be replaced is the first step in planning your Windows 11 upgrade journey. Once your IT department has identified these, there are several ways to mitigate the change in support status with the October 14th, 2025 date:
- Replace Your Workstation: Considering that most new PCs will have Windows 11 preinstalled, this is a viable option for your business. The natural EOL of most hardware is about five years. Assuming your business updated hardware around the time of the Windows 7 termination in 2020, you should be due for new systems regardless.
- Upgrade Your Old Hardware: If your system is eligible, you can upgrade your Windows 10 hardware to run Windows 11. You can keep your current set up a little while longer and still stay up to date with support and security.
- Security Update Subscription: There is a way around buying a new PC if your system cannot install Windows 11, but it can get a little pricey. There is an option to pay Microsoft on a subscription basis to continue sending security updates to your Windows 10 hardware. The subscription expires in 2028, and the price doubles every year you decide to honor this option. At that rate, it is wise to plan for a new workstation but for legacy applications, this can buy some organizations a little time to make the required upgrades.
Regardless of which way you opt to upgrade, it’s critical to start planning a path towards Windows 11 today.
simpleroute Can Help
When you decide to upgrade your hardware to get Windows 11, call simpleroute and we will assist with your workstation replacement. Send us an email and we will help with the transition, making sure everything is installed and transferred properly.