Windows 10 End of Life: What It Means for Your Business and How to Prepare

by Matt Tyerman | Apr 20, 2025 | Microsoft Windows

Windows 10 will officially reach End of Life (EOL) on 14 October 2025. That means Microsoft will no longer issue security updates, bug fixes, or technical support for it. While that might sound like something to worry about later, for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the time to act is now.

At IntraLAN, we’re already supporting many of our partners as they begin preparing for the change, because making the right decisions early saves time, money, and stress later on.:

🔒 Security Risks Are Closer Than You Think

When Microsoft stops patching Windows 10, any new vulnerabilities found in Windows 11 become a roadmap for attackers to exploit systems still running the older version. Even before the official EOL date, unsupported or infrequently updated machines can become targets.

We’ve helped many clients audit and review their systems to stay ahead of these risks. If you’ve ever delayed an update or clicked “remind me later,” you’re not alone, but those delays add up.

Unsupported doesn’t just mean out-of-date, it means wide open. Planning your move now keeps your business safe.

🛡️ Compliance and Insurance Could Be at Risk

Running unsupported software can lead to issues with GDPR compliance. It could also impact your cyber insurance. Some insurers may reject claims if basic security measures, like keeping your operating systems updated, aren’t followed.

It’s something you may have seen in your policy small print, and we’ve helped several clients understand what their insurers expect of them.

Updating to Windows 11 isn’t just a tech decision, it’s a business one.

💷 Extended Support Isn’t a Long-Term Fix

Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10, but they come at a cost. The first year is expected to cost around £50–£55 per device, and that price doubles each year.

For some businesses, this might be a short-term solution. But for many, the money is better spent upgrading.

Therefore, ESUs might buy you time, but they aren’t a long-term answer. We can help you make the right call.

🖥️ Will Your PCs Even Run Windows 11?

Not all devices can make the jump. Windows 11 has stricter requirements than previous versions, like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot.

Instead of guessing, we help clients with a quick assessment. A lightweight agent checks all your machines and gives you a simple report, no technical jargon, just clear answers.

Thankfully a lot of your hardware may already be good to go. Let’s find out together.

🧩 Application Compatibility Matters Too

It’s not just about the operating system, your business apps need to work smoothly on Windows 11 too.

We always recommend checking your core software early. We’ve worked with many partners to spot potential issues and recommend workarounds or replacements well ahead of time.

Up-to-date versions of mainstream software should be fine but confirming all software compatibility early avoids disruption later.

Final Thought

We know transitions like this can feel like yet another task on an already long list, but acting early puts you in control. At IntraLAN, we help businesses like yours get clarity, take action, and stay protected.

Want to get ahead of the Windows 10 deadline? Have a quick chat with one of our team about where you stand.

No pressure, just practical advice.

Contact IntraLAN Today