Whilst not a commercial finance matter, we hope that this article, courtesy of KEBA Computer Services Ltd,, will be of interest to those still operating on Windows 10. As we approach the critical date of 14th October 2025, the looming end of support for Windows 10 is fast becoming a major concern for businesses. After this date, Microsoft will no longer release security updates for Windows 10. This means businesses still using the operating system will be left exposed to significant risks. Cyberattacks, system failures, and data breaches are just some of the consequences of not acting early.
Security risks of still using Windows 10
For businesses, security is always a top priority. Once Microsoft stops supporting Windows 10, any vulnerabilities discovered in the operating system will remain unpatched. This will create a huge opportunity for cybercriminals to exploit weaknesses. Hackers thrive on outdated systems that no longer receive updates. Windows 10 will become an attractive target. This can lead to severe consequences, from data loss to financial damage and even reputational harm.
Security experts, including those from cybersecurity firm ESET, have warned businesses not to wait until the last minute to upgrade. They stress that the situation is already critical. The warning resonates as many businesses still rely heavily on Windows 10, and the longer they delay, the more vulnerable they become.
The risks of continuing to use an unsupported operating system are far greater than the cost of upgrading. If you wait until the last minute, you could face unexpected system failures. You could end up with unresponsive machines, and increased exposure to cyber threats. This is not just about avoiding a security breach — it’s about ensuring your business can continue to run smoothly and efficiently.
Upgrading to Windows 11 is Crucial
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the most straightforward solution, but many businesses are hesitant to make the move. The reasons for this reluctance vary. Some businesses worry that their current hardware won’t meet the system requirements for Windows 11. Others are concerned about compatibility with existing software.
These concerns are understandable. Delaying the upgrade will, however, only make the process more difficult and costly in the long run. As of late 2024, nearly 63% of Windows users are still on Windows 10 globally, according to StatCounter. The percentage of devices running Windows 11 is, however, steadily increasing. Businesses should act now to stay ahead of the curve and reduce the risk of disruption. Waiting until closer to the deadline means dealing with higher costs, as there may be a rush to purchase new devices and make last-minute upgrades.
Starting the upgrade process early also allows you to spread the costs of new hardware over time, rather than facing a significant cash flow hit closer to the end of support. Upgrading now ensures that your business has enough time to address hardware requirements. It also allows one to resolve any compatibility issues with software, all while minimising disruption to daily operations.
It’s also worth noting that businesses still running on Windows 10 will eventually face increasing difficulties. As the system becomes outdated, certain software may no longer function correctly, and devices may struggle to stay functional with newer tools. These technical problems could have a significant impact on your ability to operate efficiently and securely.
We should add that we at BFS have indeed experienced some problems in upgrading to Windows 11. This necessitated calling in expert support and downloading some new, Windows 11 compatible drivers for certain devices.
Extended security updates and alternative options
If your hardware doesn’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, there are options available. Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for businesses that aren’t yet ready to upgrade. However, this is a temporary solution and comes at a significant cost. Microsoft provides ESUs for businesses to continue receiving critical security patches for Windows 10, but the pricing can be quite high. In the first year, the cost for ESUs is c. £50 per device, rising to c. £200 by the third year. Thus over the span of three years, businesses may spend around £400 per device just for security updates. This is far from a cost-effective long-term solution.
For more information on ESUs and the costs involved, you can visit Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates FAQ (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/lifecycle/faq/extended-security-updates ).
While ESUs may help in the short term, relying on this solution isn’t advisable for the long haul. It is typically more economical and efficient to upgrade to devices that are fully compatible with Windows 11. By upgrading now, you ensure your business is future-proofed and that your IT infrastructure remains secure.
Subscription model: A flexible option for Businesses
One of the key advantages of Microsoft Copilot for businesses is its subscription-based model. Available through Microsoft 365, Copilot can be accessed via different subscription plans, allowing companies to choose the best option for their size and needs. This flexibility means that businesses can pay for only the features they need, scaling up or down as required.
For businesses that already use Microsoft 365, adding Copilot to their existing suite is a seamless process. The tool is fully integrated into familiar applications, so employees can start using it right away without the need for additional. This ease of integration, combined with the subscription model, makes Copilot an accessible and cost-effective solution.
We hope that you have found this useful. If you need further information or technical support we would suggest you contact Neil Barrett and the Team at KEBA Computers on 01327 300 311 or e-mail.neil.barrett@kebacomputers.co.uk.
If it is funding or help with business planning that you need then contact us at enquiries@bufinserv.co.uk or complete the enquiry form on our web site and ask for a free consultation.