Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. After this date, no more security updates, bug fixes, or support will be available, leaving businesses vulnerable to cyber threats, compliance failures, and system instability.
If you or your business continue to use Windows 10, you’ll be exposed to higher security risks, potential data breaches, and failure to meet essential cybersecurity standards in the UK, like Cyber Essentials.
Delaying the transition could expose your business. So, are you ready to make the switch? Let’s break down what you need to know.
What Does Windows 10 End of Life Mean?
Source: Marconet
When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, it won’t just be an outdated system—it will be a security risk. Without regular updates, businesses and individuals still using Windows 10 will face higher chances of cyberattacks, compliance issues, and performance problems.
Here’s what Windows 10 end-of-life truly means for you:
1. End of Monthly Security Updates
Microsoft regularly releases security patches to protect users from new vulnerabilities and cybersecurity threats. Once support ends, your system will no longer receive these updates, exposing it to emerging malware, ransomware, and other security risks.
2. No More Technical Support
After October 14, Microsoft will no longer offer technical support for Windows 10. This means that many businesses will have to solve problems on their own or rely on expensive third-party IT support. Without official support, resolving critical issues may take longer and cost more, which can increase the risk of downtime and reduced productivity.
3. End of Bug Fix Patches
Even the most stable operating systems develop bugs over time. That’s why Microsoft routinely releases bug fix patches to address glitches that affect system performance and software compatibility.
When Windows 10 support ends, these fixes will stop, meaning ongoing errors, crashes, and compatibility issues will remain unresolved.
The impact? The new software and hardware may no longer work properly on Windows 10, which could cause problems like frequent freezes, crashes, and system slowdowns.
4. Higher Risk of Cyber Attacks
Source: LinkedIn
With almost 7.78 million cyber crimes against businesses in the UK, using Windows 10 will be a liability for businesses. It will be a prime target for hackers, as outdated software is more vulnerable to suffering a data breach.
How Windows 10 End of Life Affects Cyber Essentials Compliance
As Windows 10 reaches its end of life, businesses still using it will face major cybersecurity risks—and, beyond that, they will fail Cyber Essentials certification. It’s a framework, designed to help businesses implement strong cybersecurity measures.
A core requirement of the certification is that all businesses’ operating systems are supported and up to date. Let’s break down exactly why this happens and what you need to do:
1. Cyber Essentials Requires Businesses to Use the Latest Software
Cyber Essentials, backed by the UK government and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), is designed to reduce cyber threats by ensuring businesses follow key security practices. One of the fundamental requirements is keeping all software updated and supported.
This means that businesses applying for Cyber Essentials must prove that all devices use actively supported operating systems that receive vendor security patches, bug fixes, and technical support.
It’s important because:
- Cybercriminals target outdated systems with known vulnerabilities.
- Unsupported systems are more susceptible to malware, ransomware, and hacking.
- Many regulatory bodies and clients require Cyber Essentials certification.
2. Businesses That Keep Using Windows 10 Will Fail Cyber Essentials
Once Windows 10 reaches the end of its life, Cyber Essentials assessors will immediately flag any business that uses it as non-compliant. Even if your business has strong firewalls, malware protection, and user access controls, failing to meet the up-to-date software requirements will cause you to fail the certification.
What this means for your business:
- If you’re applying for the first time or renewing your certification, you will not pass with Windows 10.
- Many government agencies and businesses may require certification before working with suppliers.
- Many insurers offer discounts for businesses with Cyber Essentials certification. However, if you fail to comply, it may increase your premiums or make you ineligible for coverage.
3. Upgrade to Windows 11 to Stay Cyber Essentials Compliant
Windows 11 is Cyber-Essentials compliant for the following reasons:
- Receives security updates: Windows 11 will continue to be supported by Microsoft, ensuring ongoing security patches.
- Has stronger built-in security: Windows 11 includes enhanced malware protection, secure boot, and zero-trust security features.
- Meets compliance requirements: With full support from Microsoft, Windows 11 aligns with Cyber Essentials’ software security policies.
Steps to Upgrade and Stay Compliant
Source: ZDNET
Here’s how you can upgrade to Windows 11 and stay compliant:
- Check Your Device Compatibility: Windows 11 requires specific hardware (e.g., TPM 2.0, Secure Boot). You can simply run Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to see if your systems qualify.
- Back-Up Data Before Upgrading: Safeguard critical business files before the shift takes place.
- Verify Software Compatibility: Some applications may require updates or alternative installations to work on Windows 11.
- Test Before Deployment: Upgrade a few devices first, then monitor performance before rolling it out across your business.
How Cloud Services Help Transition from Windows 10
Managed cloud services can help you transition smoothly to Windows 11. It plays a crucial role in this transition by reducing reliance on outdated infrastructure, simplifying system management, and providing employees with secure, on-demand access to essential business applications.
At Rejuvenate, we provide fully automated managed cloud services to help your business modernise your IT environment while upgrading to Windows 11.
Don’t let Windows 10 EOL become a challenge—turn it into an opportunity to secure and optimise your business with the power of cloud technology.
Partner With Rejuvenate to Stay Compliant With Cyber Essentials
Windows 10s end of life on October 14, 2025, isn’t just another update—it’s a significant cybersecurity risk. Without security patches, businesses using Windows 10 will encounter higher chances of cyberattacks, compliance failures, and lost contracts.
To protect your business and stay compliant, partner with Rejuvenate IT today. We specialize in helping companies to upgrade securely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.
Don’t risk compliance failures or security breaches!
