Microsoft’s support for Windows 10 officially ended on October 14, 2025. If your small business is still running Windows 10, you’re now operating on borrowed time. This isn’t a distant deadline anymore— it’s here, and the clock is ticking on your cybersecurity.
[Related: Preparing Your Business for the End of Windows 10 Support]
What “End of Support” Means Right Now
Your Windows 10 computers still work, but as of this month, Microsoft is no longer providing:
- Security updates and patches
- Technical support
- Software updates
Every day you continue running Windows 10, new vulnerabilities are being discovered that will never be patched. Cybercriminals know this and are actively targeting businesses that haven’t upgraded. Your customer data, financial records, and business operations are increasingly at risk.
Your Options Today
1. Upgrade to Windows 11. This is the most cost-effective solution if your hardware supports it. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and specific processor generations. Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool immediately to see which of your machines qualify for a free upgrade.
2. Replace Incompatible Hardware. If your computers don’t meet Windows 11 requirements, you need new devices. Yes, it’s an investment, but continuing on unsupported software puts your entire business at risk. Modern machines also offer better performance and will be supported for years to come.
3. Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU). Microsoft is offering paid Extended Security Updates for Windows 10, but this is expensive and only a temporary stopgap. It buys you time but doesn’t solve the underlying problem—you’ll still need to upgrade eventually.
Immediate Action Steps
- Stop procrastinating – Every day on Windows 10 is a security liability
- Inventory your systems – List every computer running Windows 10 and check hardware specs
- Run compatibility checks – Determine which machines can upgrade versus which need replacement
- Get quotes – Contact vendors for pricing on new hardware or reach out to IT professionals for upgrade services
- Create a migration timeline – Even if you can’t replace everything immediately, prioritize your most critical systems
- Backup everything – Before any changes, ensure complete backups of all business data
- Schedule upgrades – Book time for installations during your slowest business hours
- Train your team – Windows 11 has interface changes; prepare your staff for the transition
The Cost of Waiting
Every week you delay, your risk increases. A single ransomware attack or data breach will cost exponentially more than upgrading your systems. Beyond financial losses, consider the damage to your reputation if customer data is compromised due to outdated software.
Insurance companies are also taking notice—some cyber insurance policies now exclude coverage for businesses running unsupported operating systems. You could be paying for protection that won’t actually protect you.
Don’t Go It Alone
If this feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many small businesses are navigating this transition right now. CMIT Solutions of Brooklyn can assess your situation, recommend solutions, and handle the technical heavy lifting while you focus on running your business.
Connect with one of our technology specialists today, and we will get you back on track. Contact Us!