Still using Windows 10?

That’s the situation many businesses are heading for right now with Windows 10. Time is running out, fast. Microsoft has confirmed that free support for Windows 10 ends on 14 October when it reaches end of life. That’s only a few weeks away. And with the time it takes to plan, budget and roll out a full upgrade across your business, it’s dangerously close. Here’s the thing: when support ends, it really ends. That means no more security updates, no more bug fixes, no help from Microsoft if something goes wrong. Yes, you’ll still be able to use your Windows 10 devices, but you’ll be doing so in the dark, with a big target painted on your back for cyber criminals.

If you’re wondering whether your business is at risk, you’re not alone. A recent survey found that 18% had no idea support was ending. Another 14% had considered it but hadn’t started planning. That’s a lot of businesses at serious risk of disruption, data breaches, or worse. And yes, Microsoft will offer extended security updates (ESUs), but they’re not free. It’s a temporary patch, not a solution, and the price goes up every year. The better option? Moving to Windows 11 now, while there’s still time to do it properly and without stress.

In this post, we’ll break down what ends when support ends, what Windows 11 brings to your business, practical steps to upgrade, potential pitfalls, and how to partner with the right IT support to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re still using Windows 10, keep reading—this is essential thinking for the health and security of your operations.

The risk clock: what ends when Windows 10 support ends

• Security updates stop: Your devices become increasingly vulnerable to new threats. Exploits that were previously patched could be used to compromise accounts, data, and networks.
• Bug fixes halt: Software glitches that impact productivity may go unresolved, leading to downtime and user frustration.
• Microsoft support dries up: If you encounter a problem, the blanket of official help starts to shrink, leaving you more exposed to extended downtime and slower incident resolution.
• Compliance concerns rise: Many regulatory frameworks require timely security updates and vulnerability management. Unsupported software can put you out of compliance.
• ESU is not a silver bullet: Extended Security Updates can extend life by a year or two, but they’re paid, optional, and they increase in cost annually. They’re a bandaid, not a long-term strategy.

The bottom line is straightforward: continuing to rely on Windows 10 after October deadlines is a calculated risk that grows every day. If your business depends on sensitive data, remote workers, or mixed-device environments, the risk multiplies.

Windows 11: what it offers for modern business

Windows 11 isn’t just a newer label on the same OS. It’s designed with modern work in mind—hybrid teams, collaboration, and security at the forefront.

• Enhanced security by default: Windows 11 includes built-in security features designed for threat prevention, device integrity checks, and improved credential protection.
• Better performance on modern hardware: It’s optimized for current CPUs, faster wake-from-sleep, and a more responsive user experience, which helps with productivity.
• Improved collaboration tools: Deep integration with Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and Copilot support streamlines communication and document workflows.
• Hybrid work readiness: Features that support remote and flexible work arrangements, including easier management of diverse devices within a single ecosystem.
• Streamlined deployment: For IT teams, Windows 11 can simplify device management, policy enforcement, and security updates when paired with modern management tools.

Of course, there’s a caveat: not every Windows 10 device can run Windows 11. Some older hardware will require upgrades, and that planning needs to happen now to avoid last-minute scrambles and budget spikes.

Planning your upgrade: a practical, step-by-step approach

1. Assess your current fleet

   • Inventory devices: identify which machines can run Windows 11, which require hardware upgrades, and which should be replaced.
   • Check compatibility: verify CPU, RAM, storage, TPM, and secure boot requirements. Some devices may need firmware updates or replacement.

2. Map out eligibility and priorities

   • Prioritize devices used by executives, frontline staff, and high-risk roles (finance, HR, IT, customer data handlers).
   • Decide between a phased rollout or a big-bang upgrade, keeping business continuity in mind.

3. Budget realistically

   • Account for OS licensing (if applicable), hardware upgrades, peripherals, and potential downtime during migration.
   • Include training costs and potential software compatibility testing.

4. Create a rollout plan

   • Define milestones, success criteria, and rollback procedures.
   • Plan communications to users: what changes to expect, how support will work, and where to go with questions.

5. Test and validate

   • Pilot with a representative group before broader deployment.
   • Verify critical apps, business processes, security configurations, and backup integrity.

6. Learn and optimize

   • Collect feedback, monitor performance, and adjust the rollout timeline as needed.
   • Ensure ongoing security posture with updated policies, patching schedules, and monitoring.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Underestimating hardware needs: Even if some devices can technically run Windows 11, you may want to plan for performance headroom to prevent bottlenecks.
• Software compatibility gaps: Critical line-of-business applications may require updates or alternative solutions; engage vendors early.
• Training and adoption friction: Users may resist changes or struggle with new layouts; invest in coaching and concise, practical guides.
• Insufficient backup and recovery testing: Ensure your disaster recovery plans are not compromised during migration.

The business case for acting now

Time is of the essence. The longer you delay, the more you compound risk and cost. By moving to Windows 11, you not only reduce the threat surface but also unlock modern productivity features that align with hybrid work models and evolving collaboration practices. Proactive upgrading can protect data, maintain regulatory compliance, and keep projects on track.

If you haven’t started preparing, please, do it now. Ask your IT support partner, “Are we ready for Windows 10 end of life?” If the answer’s anything but a confident “yes,” make a plan. Not just about upgrading to Windows 11, but about whether your IT support partner is as much of a partner as you thought.

The looming end of Windows 10 support is more than a timetable—it's a reality check for business continuity and security. Upgrading to Windows 11 offers tangible benefits for speed, security, and collaboration, but it requires careful planning and execution. By assessing your hardware, budgeting for a measured rollout, and partnering with a capable IT support provider, you can navigate this transition with as little disruption as possible.

If you’re still using Windows 10, now is the moment to act. Start the conversation with your IT partner, map out a practical upgrade plan, and set a clear timeline. The sooner you begin, the smoother the transition will be, and the less your business will suffer from the risks of operating beyond support. Ready to take the next step? Blowfish Technology IT Support, IT Support Westhoughton, IT Support Farnworth, IT Support Frodsham, IT Support Prescot can help you chart a clear path to Windows 11 readiness and beyond. Get in touch.