As the October 14, 2025, end-of-support date for Windows 10 approaches, UK businesses face a pivotal decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or risk the myriad challenges associated with operating on an unsupported system. Despite the looming deadline, a significant portion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remain unprepared, potentially exposing themselves to security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and operational disruptions.
The Current Landscape
Recent data reveals that as of April 2025, Windows 10 holds a 52.94% share of the worldwide market, while Windows 11 accounts for 43.72% (en.wikipedia.org). This indicates that a substantial number of businesses have yet to transition to the newer operating system. A Canalys poll highlights that 35% of channel partners report their SME customers are either unaware of the Windows 10 end-of-service deadline or have no plans to upgrade (techradar.com). This lack of preparation is alarming, considering the potential risks involved.
Security Implications
Post-October 2025, Microsoft will cease providing security updates and technical support for Windows 10. This cessation means that any new vulnerabilities discovered will remain unpatched, leaving systems susceptible to cyber threats. The UK Government's Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024 found that around 50% of businesses suffered a cyber incident in the past year, underscoring the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems (npit.co.uk).
Compliance Challenges
Operating on an unsupported OS can lead to non-compliance with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Non-compliance not only exposes businesses to the risk of data breaches but can also result in significant fines. For instance, the Cyber Essentials certification, backed by the UK government, requires that all operating systems be supported by the developer. After October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will fail this fundamental requirement (rejuvenate.it).
Operational and Financial Considerations
Continuing to use Windows 10 post-support can lead to operational disruptions. As software vendors focus on Windows 11, businesses may encounter compatibility issues with new applications and hardware. Moreover, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 at a cost, starting at $30 USD for the first year (support.microsoft.com). For a company with 50 devices, this translates to an additional $1,500 annually, merely to maintain the status quo.
Environmental Impact
The transition also has environmental implications. Canalys estimates that approximately 240 million PCs will become e-waste due to incompatibility with Windows 11 (silicon.co.uk). This highlights the need for sustainable IT asset disposition strategies to mitigate environmental impact.
Recommendations for Businesses
- Assess Current Infrastructure: Evaluate existing hardware to determine compatibility with Windows 11. Microsoft provides a PC Health Check tool for this purpose.
- Develop a Migration Plan: Create a phased approach to upgrade systems, prioritizing critical operations to minimize disruptions.
- Budget Accordingly: Allocate funds for necessary hardware upgrades and potential software licensing costs.
- Employee Training: Ensure staff are trained on the new system to maintain productivity during the transition.
- Explore Alternative Solutions: For hardware incompatible with Windows 11, consider options like installing alternative operating systems or repurposing devices for less critical tasks.
The end of Windows 10 support is not merely a technical issue but a significant business concern affecting security, compliance, and operational efficiency. Proactive planning and timely action are essential to navigate this transition successfully. By upgrading to Windows 11 or exploring viable alternatives, UK businesses can safeguard their operations and position themselves for future growth.
Source: Digital Journal Opening the wrong window: Too many firms are still rooted in Windows 10
