In less than a year, on 14 October 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. This marks a critical deadline for organisations to complete their migration to Windows 11. For those who have yet to begin, the clock is ticking. This article explores the key actions you need to take, why early planning is essential, and how Zuri IT can support your transition.

If your business has not yet started on this journey, it’s not too late, and Zuri is here to help. Read on to understand what Windows 10’s end of life means, the potential impact on your business, and the steps your organisation can take to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.

What is Going to End, and What Does it Mean?

After October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive:

• Security Updates: Critical patches for vulnerabilities will cease, leaving systems at higher risk of cyber-attacks.
• Technical Support: Microsoft will no longer offer troubleshooting, updates, or technical assistance for Windows 10 issues.

Without security updates, Windows 10 systems will become increasingly vulnerable over time, posing a significant risk to business continuity.

What are the Implications for Businesses?

Running unsupported software can expose organisations to significant issues:

• Increased Cybersecurity Risks: Without security patches, unsupported systems are prime targets for cyber-attacks.
• Compliance Issues: Many regulatory standards require up-to-date, supported systems to safeguard data, meaning outdated software could lead to compliance breaches.
• Limited Application Compatibility: New software applications will increasingly require Windows 11, leaving Windows 10 users unable to access essential productivity tools and applications.

What are the Options for Businesses?

To prepare for Windows 10’s end of life, organisations have two main paths to consider:

• Upgrade Existing Machines: If current hardware is compatible with Windows 11, upgrading may be a viable solution, extending device lifespan and reducing hardware costs.
• Replace with New Machines: For systems that don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, upgrading to new devices will be necessary. This approach ensures all devices are equipped with optimal performance and support capabilities.

Zuri Recommends

At Zuri IT, we advise organisations to:

• Upgrade Devices Where Possible: Use this opportunity to transition compatible devices to Windows 11, streamlining your system management whilst maximising existing investments in equipment.
• Replace Outdated Devices: Replace non-compatible systems to ensure consistency and compliance with Microsoft’s support standards.

We also recommend introducing Microsoft Intune and Autopilot technologies to manage the Windows 11 fleet. These tools support cloud-first management, enabling seamless deployment and device upgrades. This approach aligns perfectly with modern “work-from-anywhere” principles, offering flexibility and simplified device management in a post-pandemic work environment.

Get in Touch

Zuri IT is here to help you assess your current infrastructure, advise on the best strategy for your organisation, and ensure a smooth, secure migration to Windows 11. Contact us to discuss your unique situation and explore how we can support your IT transformation.

Key Takeaways

• Windows 10 reaches end of life on 14 October 2025.
• End of support means no security updates or technical assistance.
• Risks include security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and software limitations.
• Options include upgrading compatible devices or replacing outdated machines.
• Zuri recommends introducing Intune and Autopilot for efficient, cloud-based device management.

Act now to future-proof your organisation. Reach out to Zuri IT for support with your migration to Windows 11.