The clock for Windows 10 is ticking. Companies face an inevitable decision

On 14 October 2025, Microsoft will end free support for Windows 10, a date that should be highlighted in red in every IT manager’s calendar.

After this date, computers running this system will stop receiving key security updates, making them an easy target for cyber attacks.

Even though there is just over a year left until the end of support, a huge part of the market is still ignoring the upcoming changes. This is a mistake that could cost companies much more than the price of new licences and hardware.

Resistance to matter and the illusion of safety

The market data is clear. Despite the growing popularity of Windows 11, its predecessor still dominates a huge number of machines. According to Statcounter data from August 2025, Windows 10 is still running on more than 55% of Microsoft PCs worldwide. Why the resistance to change?

The reasons are understandable. Users value Windows 10 for its familiar interface and stability of operation. From a business perspective, migration is a complex project – it involves the cost of buying new hardware, verifying software compatibility and the need to train employees.

Many companies put off this decision, following the thinking: „if the computer still works, why change it?”.

However, this is a dangerous illusion. In the context of cyber security, the argument „it still works” has no value. A system without updates is like a house with the door wide open. Any newly discovered security vulnerability will remain there forever, giving attackers constant and easy access to company data. The cost of a single successful ransomware attack or data leak can outweigh the expense of infrastructure upgrades many times over.

A technological imperative, not a manufacturer’s whim

There has been a lot of controversy surrounding the Windows 11 hardware requirements, but this is not due to any ill will on Microsoft’s part. Modern operating systems base their security architecture on features integrated directly into the hardware.

These include mechanisms such as TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), which enables encryption at the chipset level, and Secure Boot, which protects the boot process from malware.

Older computers simply do not have these components, making it impossible to implement a full, multi-layered protection model. Continuing to support incompatible hardware would mean a security compromise that cannot be afforded in today’s threat landscape.

What do we gain? New opportunities and competitive advantages

Migrating to Windows 11 is not only a necessity dictated by security, but also an opportunity to implement tools that make a real difference to productivity.

• Integration with AI: Functions such as Copilot are deeply integrated into the system, assisting employees in writing texts, analysing data or creating presentations. These are tools that speed up work and automate repetitive tasks.
• Deeper integration with the cloud: Data synchronisation, backup and collaboration in distributed teams run much more smoothly in Windows 11, which is crucial in the age of hybrid working.
• Performance and efficiency: New devices with Windows 11 pre-installed are often lighter, more energy-efficient and more powerful, also thanks to support for ARM architecture. This means longer battery life and a better user experience.

A chaotic last-minute migration is a recipe for disaster. Companies that have not yet started the process should follow a well-thought-out plan:

1. Infrastructure audit: The first step is to inventory the hardware and software. It is important to identify which devices are compatible with Windows 11 and which need to be replaced. It is also crucial to check that business-critical applications run correctly on the new system.
2. Create a schedule: Based on the audit, a detailed migration roadmap should be prepared, identifying which departments or user groups will be switched first. It is worth starting with pilot projects.
3. Data management and backup: Before migration, it is crucial to create full backups of data. Modern cloud tools make this process much easier, but it requires planning.
4. Communication and training: Employees need to understand why the change is necessary and how it will affect their daily work. Transparent communication and short training sessions will minimise resistance and fears, ensuring a smooth transition.

The end of support for Windows 10 is a fact. Continuing to use it will be an act of conscious acceptance of risk. For companies, the question is no longer 'whether’ to move to Windows 11, but 'how’ and 'when’ to organise the process. The sooner they take action, the more control they will retain over the security and future of their digital infrastructure.