Thinking of Skipping the Windows 11 Upgrade? Here’s Why That’s a Bad Idea
Windows 10 is working fine for your business, so why rush to upgrade? You might think switching to Windows 11 isn’t urgent, that your current computers will keep running smoothly, or that the cost of upgrading isn’t worth it.
But here’s the reality: sticking with Windows 10 after its End of Life (EoL) in October 2025 is a risky move. Without security updates, your business will be far more vulnerable to cyberattacks, software failures, and compliance violations. Over time, programs will stop working properly, your systems will slow down, and you may even face regulatory fines for running outdated software.
If you think delaying the switch won’t impact your business, think again. Here’s why upgrading is a smart move, and what you need to do next to prepare for Windows 10 EoL.
What Happens When Windows 10 Reaches End of Life?
When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, it will stop releasing updates that fix security flaws, known as vulnerabilities. Hackers actively search for these weaknesses to find ways to break into computers, steal data, or install malicious software like ransomware.
Normally, when a new security flaw is discovered, Microsoft releases a software update, called a patch, to fix the issue and protect users. After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer release these patches for Windows 10. Any new security issues that emerge will remain open and unpatched, making Windows 10 an easy target for cybercriminals.
In addition to security risks, many business applications will no longer be optimized for Windows 10, leading to performance problems and compatibility issues.
The Risks of Staying on Windows 10 EoL
If you don’t upgrade to Windows 11, you could run into serious problems, including:
Increased Security Threats
Hackers frequently target outdated operating systems because they know they have security gaps that will never be fixed. Without updates, your business will be vulnerable to:
- Ransomware attacks, where hackers lock your files and demand payment to restore access.
- Data breaches, which could expose sensitive business and customer information.
- Malware infections, which could slow down or completely disable your systems.
Business Software May Stop Working
Many software providers stop supporting older operating systems because they are no longer updated. Over time, this means:
- Applications like accounting software and customer relationship management (CRM) systems may start crashing or running slowly.
- Some programs, especially newer versions, may not work at all on Windows 10.
- Web browsers will eventually stop receiving updates, making some websites unusable.
Compliance Issues Could Cost You
If your business handles sensitive customer data, such as financial information, medical records, or personal details, you may be required to meet security and privacy regulations. Using an outdated, unsupported operating system could put you out of compliance with laws such as:
- HIPAA (healthcare industry regulations)
- PCI-DSS (payment security standards)
- GDPR (European data protection laws)
Failing to meet compliance requirements can result in penalties, lawsuits, or loss of customer trust.
System Performance Will Get Worse Over Time
Even if your computers seem to be working fine now, unsupported software tends to slow down over time. You may experience more frequent crashes, longer loading times, and an overall drop in performance, making everyday work more frustrating for your team.
How to Stay Secure After Windows 10 EoL
Upgrading may seem like a hassle, but planning ahead will help you avoid security risks and business disruptions. Here’s what you should do next:
Check if Your Computers Can Run Windows 11
Not all Windows 10 devices are compatible with Windows 11. To check:
- Click on the Start menu.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Look for a message that says whether your device meets Windows 11 system requirements.
If your computers don’t meet the requirements, you will need to replace them with newer models that support Windows 11.
Back Up Important Files Before Upgrading
Before making any major changes, backup all essential business data to prevent accidental loss. This includes:
- Client and customer records
- Financial documents
- Important emails and communications
- Software license keys and settings
- Employee work files and shared documents
To backup your data, you can:
- Use an external hard drive to store copies of important files.
- Save data to a cloud storage service like Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
- Work with an IT provider to set up an automated backup system.
Consider Extended Security Updates (ESUs) as a Temporary Fix
Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, but these come at a cost and are only a short-term solution. ESUs provide security patches but do not offer new features or performance improvements. Relying on ESUs means you will eventually need to transition to Windows 11 anyway.
Plan Your Upgrade Now to Avoid Disruptions
Upgrading to Windows 11 before the deadline means you won’t have to rush or deal with unexpected downtime. Here’s how to prepare:
- Test Windows 11 compatibility on a few devices before rolling it out company-wide.
- Schedule upgrades outside of peak business hours to minimize disruptions.
- Train employees on Windows 11’s new features so they can adjust quickly.
Work with an IT Expert for a Smooth Transition
Upgrading an entire business to a new operating system can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. An IT expert can help assess your systems, ensure a smooth transition, and prevent costly mistakes.
Don’t Wait Until it’s Too Late – Start Planning Now
Windows 10 End of Life is coming soon, and businesses that delay upgrading will face increased security risks, software failures, and compliance challenges.
At HUB Tech, we make the upgrade process simple. Our team will help you assess your current setup, back up your data, and manage the entire transition to Windows 11. Get ahead of the deadline. Contact us today to start your Windows 11 upgrade.
