Less than a month left before Windows 10 support ends, prompting urgent upgrade push to Windows 11

With support for Windows 10 ending on October 14, 2025, a significant percentage of devices remain unupgraded, highlighting a critical need for businesses to embrace Windows 11’s security and productivity enhancements amid mounting security risks.

With the official end of support (EOS) for Windows 10 imminent on October 14, 2025, businesses and users still running this operating system face a critical crossroads. Despite widespread awareness of this milestone, around 41% of devices have yet to upgrade, highlighting a significant opportunity for IT providers to guide their customers towards modernisation and security enhancements offered by Windows 11. The EOS means that, beyond this date, Windows 10 devices will no longer receive security patches, non-security updates, or technical assistance, which leaves them vulnerable to emerging threats and operational inefficiencies.

Microsoft strongly advises users to upgrade to Windows 11 to maintain ongoing support and protection. The transition not only ensures continued monthly security updates but unlocks new productivity and security features designed to meet contemporary business needs. Those still using Windows 10 are encouraged to back up important data, ideally via OneDrive, and consider upgrading to Windows 11-compatible hardware to fully benefit from the latest innovations.

Windows 11 is engineered to be the most secure Windows operating system to date. It introduces features such as Secure Boot—a protection that ensures devices start only with trusted software, effectively blocking malware at the boot level. Smart App Control leverages Microsoft’s App Intelligence to detect and prevent the execution of untrusted or malicious applications, adding an essential proactive security layer. Furthermore, Windows Credential Guard protects login credentials by isolating them in a secure environment, reducing the risk of credential theft. Together, these features establish a robust, layered defence strategy, enhancing organisational security significantly.

Beyond security, Windows 11 enhances speed and multitasking capabilities, valuable for professionals in demanding fields like video editing or software development. Features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops streamline workflows, while performance optimisations reduce background activity and improve battery life on portable devices. The operating system also integrates AI-driven capabilities through Copilot+ PCs paired with Microsoft 365 Copilot, which help users boost productivity by enabling smarter workflows and delivering deeper insights.

Key enhancements include the ability to automatically capture and search activity snapshots using natural language, tools to interact with and edit onscreen content effortlessly, AI-powered video call improvements such as background blur and simulated eye contact, and an improved Windows Search that indexes content semantically rather than relying solely on file names. These advancements position Windows 11 and Copilot+ PCs as strategic investments for businesses aiming to stay competitive in a hybrid work environment.

Dicker Data, a prominent distributor with over four decades of industry experience, is actively supporting its partners in this transition. The company emphasises that upgrading to Windows 11 is not merely an IT compliance issue, but a critical move to unlock AI-enhanced productivity and strengthened security. With thousands of partners nationwide, Dicker Data offers assistance including expert licensing advice, marketing assets, and strategic refresh support to ensure a seamless customer upgrade experience. Their Windows 11 Assessment tool is available for partners to determine device eligibility and guide upgrade decisions.

For organisations unable to upgrade immediately, Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which provides critical security updates for Windows 10 beyond the EOS date during a transition period. Additionally, businesses can explore cloud-based options such as Windows 365 to facilitate the shift to modern infrastructure. Nonetheless, the overarching message from Microsoft and IT partners alike is clear: the future of security and productivity lies in embracing Windows 11 and the AI-driven possibilities it brings.

With less than a month remaining until support for Windows 10 ceases, the pressure is mounting to ensure IT environments remain safe, efficient, and aligned with the demands of modern computing. Providers who proactively lead their customers through this transition will not only safeguard their operations but also position themselves as forward-thinking market leaders in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

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Source: Noah Wire Services