Windows 10 Support Is Ending—How to protect your business
Microsoft 365 apps will no longer be supported on Windows 10 after it reaches end of support on October 14, 2025. Microsoft 365 apps are no longer supported on Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 now that these operating systems have reached their end of support dates. To avoid performance and reliability issues, we recommend that you move to Windows 11.
If your organization hasn’t started to plan for the transition, it is time to get a plan in place. Vertilocity is here to help, offering expert guidance to ensure a seamless, secure, and strategic transition.
What should businesses consider?
When Microsoft ends support for an operating system, all security patches end. Without security updates, Windows 10 devices can become prime targets for cyberattacks. Running outdated software can also put businesses at risk of non-compliance with industry regulations.
1. Security Risks & Compliance Challenges
Microsoft is firm about discontinuing security updates – and without those security patches, Windows 10 systems will become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats such as:
- Malware and ransomware attacks
- Phishing scams and impersonation fraud
- Data breaches leading to financial and reputational damage
For industries with strict regulatory requirements healthcare, finance, and legal sectors—staying compliant means ensuring all technology is up to date. HIPAA, PCI DSS, FINRA, and SEC regulations require businesses to use supported, secure software. While HIPAA allows businesses some time to transition, they must have an active, well-documented plan for replacement to remain compliant.
Running an outdated operating system may invalidate cyber insurance policies, leaving companies financially exposed in case of a breach. Many cyber insurance policies now require businesses to use supported software. Running Windows 10 past EOL could lead to denied claims in case of a security incident.
2. Hardware Planning & Budgeting for Migration to Windows 11
Migrating to Windows 11 includes planning for both a software and hardware update. Many businesses can underestimate how long a full migration takes, and it’s important to include hardware assessments to avoid unexpected costs or last-minute supply chain issues.
How Vertilocity helps businesses prepare:
- Evaluating existing hardware to determine Windows 11 compatibility
- Providing budgeting forecasts for upgrades and replacements
- Creating scalable transition plans for businesses of all sizes
Not all computers that currently run on Windows 10 will work efficiently with Windows 11. Microsoft’s minimum requirements include newer processors, TPM 2.0 security chips, and enhanced system performance benchmarks. Even if your hardware meets the requirements, Vertilocity ensures your team gets the best performance by evaluating job roles and workloads before making upgrade decisions.
Pro Tip: Try a batch upgrade strategy. Instead of a massive, disruptive overhaul, businesses can transition in waves—whether it’s small batches of five or larger phased rollouts.
3. Opportunity for IT Optimization and Smarter Cost Management
While transitioning to Windows 11, businesses have an opportunity to optimize IT infrastructure, reduce unnecessary hardware costs, and improve operational efficiency.
A key opportunity to reduce hardware costs is to consolidate devices. Many businesses still maintain both a desktop and a laptop for employees—which can be unnecessary with today’s hybrid work environment. By switching to a single high-performance laptop with docking stations, companies can:
- Reduce device spend and lower total IT expenses
- Improve mobility and flexibility for employees
- Streamline device management and maintenance
This approach has helped businesses reduce their annual IT costs by thousands of dollars, allowing them to redirect savings toward other strategic areas of their business.
It’s important to note that not all Windows 10 devices will run Windows 11 efficiently. While some older systems meet Microsoft’s compatibility requirements, they may struggle with performance—especially for high-processing roles in finance, engineering, and other data-heavy applications.
Pro Tip: Instead of a blanket replacement approach for hardware, Vertilocity assesses job roles and workloads to ensure businesses invest in the right hardware without overspending.
4. Windows 11 as a Launchpad for AI & Cloud Optimization
Moving to Windows 11 is also a perfect time to take a fresh look at your IT infrastructure and explore how AI-powered tools can boost efficiency.
Migrating to Windows 11 allows businesses to modernize data storage and collaboration with OneDrive and Microsoft 365 integration. Cloud-based file access makes it easy to transfer data to new devices and includes automated backups, eliminating the risk of data loss.
Windows 11 has powerful, built-in AI features, which can automate repetitive tasks and improve data analysis. For example, AI-powered search can help employees quickly find information, streamline approvals, and reduce time spent on administrative tasks.
However, many businesses don’t realize that when AI is granted access, it inherits all user permissions—meaning it could unintentionally expose confidential data.
Vertilocity helps businesses securely implement AI by:
- Auditing SharePoint permissions to ensure AI doesn’t access restricted data
- Deploying AI tools with role-based security settings to prevent unauthorized access
- Using SecureIQ, a SharePoint security reporting tool, which helps businesses track permissions across SharePoint and prevent unauthorized AI access.
Pro Tip: Ask your Managed Services Provider about AI use cases within your business. Vertilocity works with businesses to identify AI use cases that fit their industry and workflows and that truly add value, without unnecessary risks.
Prepare for a Successful Transition to Windows 11
Don’t wait until late 2025 to start planning for migrating to Windows 11. Delaying this decision could result in unexpected downtime and increased security vulnerabilities. The best approach is proactive planning.
Next Steps for Your Business:
- Communicate to your team and clients that Windows 10 will no longer be supported
- Assess your hardware and software needs to determine upgrade paths and budget
- Start migrating critical systems early to avoid disruptions
- Reach out to Vertilocity for expert support in planning, budgeting, and implementation
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Vertilocity today to discuss your Windows 10 transition plan and secure your IT future.
