Phil Gwinnell

Windows 10 end of life is coming soon. As of 14th October 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10, marking a significant transition for businesses worldwide. This end-of-life (EOL) milestone means that Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, patches, or technical assistance from Microsoft. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), this development presents critical challenges that require immediate attention to safeguard operations and data integrity

Understanding Windows 10 End of Life

When an operating system reaches EOL, the developer ceases all forms of support, including essential security updates and technical assistance. While Windows 10 devices will continue to function post-EOL, the absence of updates means that any newly discovered vulnerabilities will remain unaddressed, leaving systems increasingly susceptible to cyber threats.

Implications for SMEs.

The end of support for Windows 10 carries several significant risks for SMEs:

1. Increased Security Vulnerabilities

Without regular security patches, systems running Windows 10 will become prime targets for cyberattacks. Cybercriminals frequently exploit outdated software to infiltrate networks, leading to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and operational disruptions. The infamous WannaCry ransomware attack of 2017 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with unpatched systems. This attack exploited vulnerabilities in older versions of Windows, affecting over 230,000 computers globally and causing an estimated $4 billion in damages.

2. Compliance and Regulatory Challenges

Many industries are governed by strict data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Operating on an unsupported OS can lead to non-compliance, resulting in hefty fines and legal complications. For instance, GDPR mandates that organisations implement appropriate technical measures to protect personal data. Using an unsupported operating system like Windows 10 post-EOL could be seen as a failure to comply with these requirements, exposing businesses to potential penalties.

3. Software and Hardware Incompatibility

As technology evolves, software developers and hardware manufacturers optimise their products for current operating systems. Continuing with Windows 10 may lead to compatibility issues, hindering access to new applications and peripherals, thereby affecting productivity and competitiveness.
For example, newer versions of essential business software may not support Windows 10, forcing businesses to either forgo important updates or invest in costly workarounds.

4. Increased Operational Costs

Maintaining outdated systems often incurs higher costs due to increased downtime, more frequent repairs, and the need for additional security measures. Investing in updated technology can mitigate these expenses and improve operational efficiency.
For example, businesses may need to invest in additional security software to compensate for the lack of security updates, leading to increased operational costs.

The Security Risks of Staying on Windows 10

Choosing to remain on Windows 10 beyond its EOL date exposes businesses to several security risks:

1. Exploitation of Unpatched Vulnerabilities

Cyber attackers actively seek out unsupported systems to exploit known vulnerabilities. Without ongoing patches, these weaknesses remain open invitations to malicious actors.

2. Malware and Ransomware Threats

Unsupported operating systems are more susceptible to malware and ransomware attacks, which can lead to data loss, financial loss, and reputational damage.
For example, the WannaCry ransomware attack encrypted critical data files on over 230,000 business computers, demanding a Bitcoin ransom in return for not deleting the data. Many businesses paid the ransom, yet their data was deleted anyway.

3. Network Vulnerabilities

An unsecured device can serve as a gateway for attackers to infiltrate broader business networks, compromising multiple systems and amplifying damage.