Microsoft has confirmed that support for Windows 10 will officially end in October 2025. That means no more security patches, no bug fixes, and no technical support regardless of how critical the issue.
For small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), the implications are serious. Unsupported systems quickly become soft targets for cyber attacks. Without regular updates, businesses face:
- Increased exposure to vulnerabilities that won’t be patched
- Compliance risks, especially in regulated sectors like finance, healthcare, or legal
- Compatibility issues with newer software, hardware, or integrated platforms
The challenge for many SMBs is that they’re still running on ageing devices or haven’t set aside budget for a full operating system upgrade. Businesses managing their IT through a trusted managed IT services partner can reduce risk and simplify the transition.
Waiting too long to act could leave your business exposed, under-supported, and playing catch-up at the worst possible time. Whether you manage IT internally or work with a service provider, now is the moment to take stock, assess your risks, and plan a structured, secure path forward. In this article, we’ll explore what Windows 10 end-of-support means for SMBs, the risks of inaction, and how to navigate the transition to Windows 11 in a way that protects both productivity and peace of mind.
What’s at Stake If You Don’t Transition in Time
Delaying your Windows 10 upgrade may seem convenient now, but it can come with steep costs later. Once support ends, your business is essentially operating on borrowed time and exposed systems.
Here’s what could go wrong:
- Cybersecurity vulnerabilities
Without regular patches, Windows 10 devices become easy entry points for attackers. Ransomware and malware campaigns often target known exploits in outdated operating systems. - Compliance risks
If you’re in a regulated industry, running unsupported software may breach compliance frameworks like ISO 27001, CPS 234, or the Privacy Act, exposing you to fines and legal scrutiny. - Performance limitations
Newer applications, integrations, and productivity tools are being designed with Windows 11 in mind. You could face bugs, slowdowns, or a complete lack of support on older systems. - Support restrictions
Many IT providers, including managed service providers (MSPs), will phase out support for Windows 10. That could leave your internal team or helpdesk with escalating issues and no clear resolution path.
The bottom line? Transitioning early avoids disruption, protects your compliance posture, and positions your business for smoother day-to-day operations.
For a deeper breakdown of risks and action steps, explore our full Windows 10 end-of-support guide.
The Unique Challenge for SMBs
When it comes to technology upgrades, small and mid-sized businesses are rarely working with a blank cheque or a dedicated migration team. Every decision has to balance operational impact, cost, and resource availability. The shift to Windows 11 adds another layer of complexity - one that requires pragmatic planning tailored to the real-world constraints SMBs navigate daily. You might recognise some of these hurdles:
- Limited or no in-house IT support
Managing device upgrades, compatibility checks, and end-user training might not be something your team is resourced for especially if IT is already stretched thin. - A mixed device environment
Many SMBs operate with a blend of systems: some running Windows 10, others already on 11, with a few macOS machines in the mix. That fragmentation makes standardisation harder and upgrades more complex. - Ageing hardware
Upgrading to Windows 11 might not be possible on your existing devices. Older machines may fall short of Microsoft’s minimum specs, creating an unplanned hardware replacement challenge. - Team anxiety and retraining needs
Even small changes to how people work can be disruptive. Your staff might need guidance on what’s different in Windows 11, or support to rebuild confidence with new interfaces and workflows. - No structured migration plan or budget
If the transition hasn’t been scoped yet, or isn’t budgeted for in FY25, it can be hard to know where to start or how to prioritise.
These challenges don’t mean you’re behind. They just mean you need the right strategy for your size, structure, and stage. The key is to start planning early and focus on what matters most: continuity, security, and your team’s day-to-day experience.
How to Start Planning for the Transition
The first step is to take stock of your current environment and build a clear, phased plan. Whether you’re upgrading a handful of devices or managing a hybrid fleet, here’s how to approach the Windows 10 transition with confidence:
- Audit your device fleet
Identify how many Windows 10 machines are in use across your business. Are they all company-issued? Are any being used remotely? Capture device age, specs, and business function. - Check upgrade eligibility
Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check Tool or consult with your MSP to confirm which devices meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11. - Decide: upgrade or replace?
Not all machines will make the cut. For older hardware, upgrading may be costlier and less efficient than replacement. In many cases, newer devices offer better long-term value with improved security and support. - Prioritise critical systems
Focus first on the departments or functions where downtime or vulnerabilities carry the most risk such as finance, HR, or customer-facing platforms. - Budget smartly
Plan for more than just software licences. Include labour, downtime, reinstallation of business tools, and training. Even a small disruption can add up without proper preparation. - Work in phases
Trying to migrate all users at once can overwhelm both your team and support resources. A staged rollout allows you to test, adapt, and minimise disruption.
A structured approach is essential, and tools like our Windows 10 to 11 checklist can help breakdown the process into manageable steps.
Cost Considerations for SMBs
When it comes to upgrading from Windows 10, the financial impact can’t be an afterthought. For SMBs, the challenge isn’t just in finding budget, it’s in making smart, prioritised investments that deliver long-term value. Understanding the true cost drivers behind migration can help you avoid hidden surprises and plan with confidence.
- Licensing
While Windows 11 typically comes bundled with new devices, upgrading in-place may require purchasing licences for existing machines. Confirm what’s covered under your current agreements. - Hardware refresh
Windows 11 has strict requirements around TPM and processor capability. If your devices don’t meet these, you’ll need to assess which ones should be replaced and when. - Support and labour
Whether handled in-house or by an MSP, migrations take time. Budget for technical labour to minimise disruption and ensure clean, secure upgrades. - Training
New operating systems bring changes to the user experience. Even minor UI tweaks or security prompts can slow down teams if they’re not prepared. Include a training or comms plan as part of your rollout. - The cost of delay
Waiting too long increases the risk of running unsupported systems, making your business a soft target for ransomware and exposing you to potential compliance breaches. The reputational and financial cost of a breach far outweighs a planned, phased investment now.
With a clear view of what you’ll need to invest, you can approach the transition with foresight rather than firefighting. The next step is making sure your migration is executed smoothly, with minimal disruption to your people and processes.
Tips for a Smooth Migration
With the right steps, transitioning from Windows 10 can be an opportunity to modernise with minimal friction.
- Start early
Don’t wait until the final quarter of 2025. As EOS nears, support demand will spike. Starting now gives you time to plan, budget, and execute without panic. - Communicate with users
A migration isn’t just a tech project, it affects your people. Frame the change as a security and productivity upgrade, not an IT headache. - Create a backup and rollback plan
Ensure you have a secure backup of files, apps, and settings. That way, if anything goes wrong, you can quickly recover with minimal downtime. - Engage a trusted IT partner
Whether you manage IT internally or rely on an MSP, expert guidance can streamline phased rollouts, user onboarding, and troubleshooting. - Check third-party app compatibility
Don’t overlook software dependencies. From payroll to CRMs, ensure your business-critical tools are compatible with Windows 11 before upgrading.
If you’re unsure where to begin, our managed IT services team can help assess compatibility and prepare a phased plan.
Don't wait until it's urgent
Windows 10’s end-of-support is more than a technical deadline, it’s a strategic opportunity. For SMBs, the key is starting early, planning in phases, and seeking the right advice.
Done right, this transition can strengthen your cyber posture, streamline user experience, and future-proof your infrastructure.
Start planning your upgrade now to stay secure, compliant, and ahead of the rush.
Need help with the roadmap? Talk to us about managing your Windows 11 transition the smart way.
