Publish Date
28/04/2025
Categories
Blogs Hot Topic
This article was last reviewed and updated for accuracy in September 2025.
If your business is still operating on Windows 10, it’s time to start planning for the future. Microsoft has officially announced that it will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, businesses still using Windows 10 will no longer receive technical support, security patches, or bug fixes — leaving systems increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats and software incompatibility.
In this blog, we’ll explain what this means for your business, the risks of staying on Windows 10, and the best steps you can take to prepare.
Four Ways to Discover Windows 10 Usage in Your Business
Here are the most common methods to assess if you have Windows 10:
1. Manual Audit
The most basic method: go desk-to-desk and check each machine. A simple way to check, is by pressing Windows Key + R, type winver, and hit Enter – a box will pop up showing your Windows version like the below.
It’s time-consuming and not scalable for a larger business, but for very small businesses, it might be the best option.
If your desktop still uses the default layout (meaning you haven’t customised its appearance), another quick way to tell if your device is on Windows 10 or 11, is by looking at the taskbar:
- In Windows 10, the taskbar icons are left-aligned, the search box is built into the bar, and you can move the taskbar to any side of the screen.
- In Windows 11, the icons are centred by default (though they can be left-aligned), the search is just a button, and the taskbar is locked to the bottom
(Right – Windows 11; Left – Windows 10)
2. Use Existing Tooling
Many businesses already have tools that can help:
- Antivirus or endpoint protection platforms often include centralised dashboards showing OS versions.
- RMM tools (Remote Monitoring and Management) like ISL or PDQ can automate discovery and reporting.
- Microsoft Intune (via M365 Business Premium) offers update ring visibility and device compliance reporting.
If you’re already using these tools, you may be closer to solving the problem than you think.
3. Review Hardware Purchase History
Looking at procurement records can give you a rough idea of which devices are likely to be running Windows 10. However, this method has limitations:
- It only shows what was bought, not what’s still in use.
- It doesn’t account for OS upgrades or downgrades, but still, it’s a useful starting point for estimating exposure.
4. Engage a Discovery Partner
Work with an IT partner. At Cobweb, we offer discovery services to help you:
- Audit your environment
- Identify upgrade paths
- Flag devices that don’t meet Windows 11 requirements (e.g. TPM 2.0, Secure Boot)
- Recommend next steps, whether that’s upgrading, replacing, or enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme
We’ve already helped customers through this process, including manual upgrades where no better option was available.
What happens when Windows 10 support ends?
Once Microsoft ends support, devices running Windows 10 will:
- No longer receive security updates: This leaves systems exposed to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
- Face software compatibility issues: Newer applications and updates may no longer be designed to work with Windows 10.
- Risk compliance failures: Many industries require businesses to maintain secure, up-to-date systems to meet regulatory standards.
Simply put, staying on Windows 10 without a plan could put your operations, your data, and your reputation at serious risk.
Why upgrade to Windows 11?
Upgrading to Windows 11 offers businesses a host of benefits beyond just staying secure:
- Enhanced performance: Windows 11 is optimised for faster boot times, improved multitasking, and better overall efficiency.
- Stronger security: Built-in features like hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware protection keep your data safer.
- Access to innovation: With Windows 11, you’ll be ready to leverage exciting new technologies — including AI-powered features — designed to enhance productivity and creativity.
And the best part? If your devices meet the system requirements, the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is free.
What are your options?
As the end-of-support date approaches, here are your main options:
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
For businesses whose hardware meets Windows 11’s system requirements, upgrading ensures you stay secure, compliant, and ready for the future.
2. Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU)
If you’re unable to upgrade immediately, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 — but at an additional cost. This allows you to continue receiving critical security patches while you plan your transition.
3. Invest in New Hardware
Some older devices may not meet Windows 11’s requirements. In that case, investing in new hardware can be a smart move, giving your team access to faster, more powerful, and more secure technology.
To minimise any risk when upgrading to Windows 11:
- Fully back up your system (3rd party cloud backup is ideal in case of any data loss).
- Check software and hardware compatibility first.
- Test the upgrade on a few non-critical machines before doing a full rollout.
- Schedule upgrades carefully to avoid downtime during business-critical periods.
- Have an IT expert assist if your environment is complex or critical (better to be safe than sorry).
Don’t wait until it’s too late
Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 of course takes planning — from assessing your devices to scheduling the upgrade with minimal disruption. Acting early means you can avoid rushed decisions, unplanned downtime, or unexpected costs.
Need help with your options?
If you’re using Windows 10 and considering an upgrade, our friendly team is here to help. We can guide you through your options and answer any questions you may have.