Windows 10 is on Its Last Legs - What Your Business Needs to Know

Remember Windows 7? One day, it was happily running on millions of computers, and the next - boom! No more support, no more updates, and businesses scrambling to upgrade.

Well, guess what? Windows 10 is next in line for retirement.

Come October 2025, Microsoft will officially pull the plug on Windows 10. That means no more security updates, no more bug fixes, and no more technical support. And while your computers won’t suddenly stop working, keeping Windows 10 could be like leaving your front door wide open for cybercriminals. (Spoiler: they love outdated software.)

So, if your business is still running on Windows 10, it’s time to start planning your next move. And don’t worry, we’re here to help!

What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?

You know that little notification in the bottom right corner of your screen telling you there’s an update available? Well, after October 2025, those notifications will disappear forever - because there won’t be any updates to install.

Here’s what that actually means for your business:

🚨 Security risks:
No updates = no security patches. Cybercriminals target outdated systems because they know vulnerabilities won’t be fixed. If you handle customer data, financial records, or any sensitive info, this is a big deal.

⚠️ Compatibility issues:
New software (and even updates to existing programs) will be designed for Windows 11 and beyond. Over time, you might find that some of your critical apps stop working properly - or at all.

🤷‍♂️ No technical support:
If something goes wrong, Microsoft won’t be there to help you. That means unexpected downtime, frustrating workarounds, and potentially costly fixes.

Basically, staying on Windows 10 after 2025 is a bit like driving an old car without insurance - you can do it, but it’s risky, and when something goes wrong, you’re on your own.

So, What’s the Solution?

The good news? Windows 11 is here, and it’s packed with features designed to make your life easier. From enhanced security to improved productivity tools, it’s built for modern businesses. And the best part? The upgrade is free (as long as your hardware can handle it).

Before you upgrade, though, you need to check if your computers are ready for Windows 11. Microsoft has specific hardware requirements, including:

✅ A relatively modern processor
✅ 4GB+ of RAM (ideally more for smooth performance)
✅ Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 for extra security

💡Not sure if your devices meet the requirements? Microsoft offers a PC Health Check Tool that tells you in seconds whether your computer is Windows 11-ready.

And if your hardware isn’t compatible? Well, that’s where you might need to start thinking about newer devices. It might sound like an expense you’d rather avoid, but modern machines are faster, more secure, and built to last longer - saving you money (and frustration) in the long run.

How to Upgrade to Windows 11 Without the Headache

Upgrading an operating system can feel like a big deal, but with the right approach, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free. Here’s how:

🗓 Pick the right time:
Avoid upgrading during your busiest period. Stagger the transition if necessary - one department at a time, so work isn’t disrupted.

💾 Back up everything:
Before you start, make sure all your important files and settings are backed up. Use external hard drives or cloud storage for extra security.

👨‍💻 Check software compatibility:
Ensure all your critical business applications work with Windows 11. If not, you may need to update or replace them.

📢 Keep your team informed:
Let your employees know when the upgrade is happening and what they need to do. (Nobody likes surprises when it comes to their work computer!)

Once you’ve done all the prep work, the actual installation process is straightforward. Just follow Microsoft’s step-by-step guide, and you’ll be up and running in no time.

Why Windows 11 is Worth It

If you’re thinking, "Okay, but is Windows 11 really that much better?" - the answer is yes. Here’s why:

🚀 Faster and more efficient - Improved speed and multitasking features like Snap Layouts help you work smarter.

🛡 Better security - Built-in protections against malware, phishing, and cyber threats keep your business safe.

🎯 AI-powered tools - Features like Windows Copilot help automate tasks and improve productivity.

📞 Integrated Microsoft Teams - Easier communication with built-in Teams chat and calls right from your taskbar.

Time to Make a Move

The countdown to Windows 10’s end-of-life is ticking, and waiting until the last minute could leave your business vulnerable. By planning ahead, you can avoid security risks, keep your software running smoothly, and make the transition to Windows 11 as painless as possible.

Need help making the switch? We’ve put together a free guide that walks you through the whole process - from checking compatibility to ensuring a smooth upgrade.

📥 Download your free guide now:
👉 https://www.adkinsio.co.uk/windows-10-end-of-life

Or, if you'd rather let the experts handle it for you, we’re here to help! Get in touch today:

📞 0800 112 6789
📧 ashley@adkinsio.co.uk

Windows 10 is retiring soon - don’t get caught unprepared. 🚀