Free support for Windows 10 ends in TWO WEEKS

It might not be a flood, a fire, or a power cut. It could be something as simple as sticking with an old operating system. In just over two weeks, Microsoft will officially stop providing free support for Windows 10. It’s reaching end of life. That means no more security updates, no bug fixes, and no help from Microsoft if something breaks. For businesses still running Windows 10, this isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s a serious risk. Without security updates, every Windows 10 machine becomes a potential entry point for cyber criminals. And with cyber attacks on the rise, this isn’t a “maybe someday” kind of problem. It’s a right-now threat. You wouldn’t leave the front door to your office wide open – so why leave your systems vulnerable?

Some businesses are hoping they can buy themselves a little time with Microsoft’s extended security updates (ESUs). Yes, they’ll be available. But they aren’t free. And they’re just a temporary sticking plaster, not a long-term solution. They also get more expensive each year, and don’t give you access to any new features or improvements. Just basic protection.

The better choice is to upgrade to Windows 11. It’s faster, more secure, and better equipped to support the way businesses work today. But here’s the thing: upgrading isn’t always as simple as pressing a button. Some older devices won’t meet the system requirements for Windows 11. That means you might need to plan for new hardware too. Which is why waiting until the last minute isn’t a good idea.

Right now, time is short. If you’re still on Windows 10, you need to act immediately. Your first step is to find out which devices can be upgraded, and which ones can’t. From there, you’ll need a clear plan to make the switch quickly, with as little disruption as possible.

That’s exactly where Blowfish Technology IT support  comes in. My team and I can help you move to Windows 11 smoothly, safely, and quickly. Whether it’s reviewing your current setup, helping you choose the right new devices, or handling the upgrade for you from start to finish, we’ve got you covered.

Please don’t leave this until the clock runs out. Get in touch today, and let’s make sure your business stays protected.

Why Windows 10 end of life is a risk you can’t ignore

End of life for an operating system is more than a marketing banner. It signals that the platform will no longer receive the security updates, bug fixes, or quality-of-life improvements that keep it resilient in today’s threat landscape. For Windows 10, this means:

• No security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities
• No ongoing compatibility fixes for newly released software
• Escalating risk as cyber criminals increasingly target older, unsupported software

In a business environment, even a single unpatched device can compromise a whole network. The cost of a breach goes beyond immediate downtime; it can erode trust, dent customer relationships, and trigger regulatory or contractual consequences.

ESUs: a temporary patch, not a long-term strategy

Extended Security Updates (ESUs) can offer a short-term cushion, but they come at a price and with limitations:

• They are not free and will become more expensive year by year
• They provide security updates only, with no benefit of new features or performance improvements
• They do not guarantee compatibility with future software or hardware
• They still require ongoing management, monitoring, and testing

Relying on ESUs is effectively delaying the inevitable upgrade decision. For many businesses, a strategic upgrade to Windows 11 is the more prudent path to maintain security, efficiency, and feature parity with modern applications.

Planning a Windows 11 upgrade: a practical approach

A well-executed upgrade minimizes disruption and maximizes the benefits. Consider the following steps:

• Inventory: Catalogue all Windows 10 devices and identify which meet Windows 11 system requirements. Note processors, RAM, storage, TPM, and compatibility with essential software.
• Assessment: Determine which devices can be upgraded in place and which require new hardware. For devices that can’t be upgraded, plan a phased replacement or a secure virtualization strategy.
• Roadmap: Create a realistic timeline that avoids peak business periods. Factor in pilot groups, user training, and staged rollouts.
• Compatibility checks: Validate critical applications for Windows 11 compatibility. Work with vendors for updates or alternatives if needed.
• Change management: Communicate changes to users, provide training, and prepare support channels for a smooth transition.
• Security posture: Reassess security configurations, backup strategies, and endpoint protection to align with Windows 11 capabilities.

If you’re unsure where to start, partner with a trusted IT services provider who can tailor a plan to your organization’s size, sector, and risk profile.

How Blowfish Technology IT Support can help

We understand that for many businesses, time is of the essence. Our approach is practical, transparent, and focused on minimizing downtime during the transition. We can support you in several ways:

• Comprehensive assessment: Review current hardware, software, and security posture to determine upgrade feasibility.
• Hardware recommendations: Suggest cost-effective devices that meet Windows 11 requirements and align with your workload needs.
• End-to-end upgrade management: From planning to deployment, we handle imaging, driver updates, application compatibility testing, and user onboarding.
• Security hardening: Configure Windows 11 with best-practice security settings, enable advanced threat protection, and ensure robust backup and disaster recovery integration.
• Post-upgrade support: Provide ongoing IT support to address any issues, optimize performance, and monitor for potential risks.

If you’re ready to act, we’ll tailor a plan that keeps disruption to a minimum while delivering a secure, modern platform for your business.

End-of-life for Windows 10 is not just a software update issue—it’s a business risk. Procrastination can turn a manageable upgrade into a crisis that halts productivity and jeopardizes security. By planning ahead, validating hardware, and choosing Windows 11, your organization can maintain resilience, improve performance, and stay protected against evolving cyber threats.

Remember: time is of the essence. Free security updates may be ending soon, but you can secure a smoother transition with the right strategy and support. Blowfish Technology IT Support, IT Support Blackburn, IT Support Altrincham, IT Support Lancaster, IT Support Salford, IT Support Wirral, IT Support Stockport, is ready to help you move forward confidently and quickly. Reach out today, and let’s ensure your business stays protected in a rapidly changing tech landscape.