Critical info for businesses
As we approach October 14, 2025, it’s important to be aware of a significant change coming to the world of technology. On this date, Windows 10 will reach its End of Life (EOL). This means that Microsoft will no longer provide updates or support for this operating system. For many, this might seem like just another tech update, but it has serious implications, especially for businesses and organizations that handle sensitive information. Let’s dive into what this means and why it’s crucial to take action now.
End of Life October of 2025
First and foremost, what does “End of Life” mean? When a product reaches its EOL, the company that created it stops providing updates, including security patches and technical support. For Windows 10, this means that after October 14, 2025, there will be no more updates to fix bugs or vulnerabilities. This is a big deal because it leaves systems running Windows 10 exposed to potential security threats.
Current Usage Statistics
According to recent data, Windows 10 remains the most popular Windows desktop operating system, accounting for around 65% of the market share as of September 2024. Additionally, Windows 10 holds 70.03% of the market share, while Windows 11 continues to grow. Despite being close to its End of Life, Windows 10 still dominates the Windows market share, with 62.7% of all Windows users still on Windows 10.
This widespread usage underscores the importance of planning for the transition before the EOL deadline.
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Consider these factors when deciding to upgrade or not upgrade
HIPAA Compliance
For businesses in the healthcare industry, the EOL of Windows 10 is particularly important. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient data. One of the key requirements of HIPAA is to ensure that all systems and software used to store or transmit patient information are secure. After Windows 10 reaches its EOL, it will no longer meet these security standards. This means that healthcare providers must upgrade to a newer operating system to remain HIPAA compliant. Failing to do so could result in hefty fines and, more importantly, put patient data at risk.
Security Vulnerability
Security is a major concern for everyone, not just those in the healthcare industry. When Microsoft stops providing updates for Windows 10, any new vulnerabilities discovered will not be patched. Hackers are always looking for weaknesses to exploit, and an unsupported operating system is an easy target. Without regular updates, systems running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. This can lead to data breaches, loss of sensitive information, and significant financial losses for businesses.
According to available data, a significant majority, around 85% of ransomware attacks target Windows systems, with a large portion of those attacks specifically targeting older, unpatched versions of Windows due to their known vulnerabilities, making outdated Windows operating systems a primary target for ransomware attacks.
Windows 10 and Extended Support (LTSC Licensing)
Microsoft provides a specialty version of Windows 10 that includes extended support patch coverage. This unique license is more difficult to obtain and different from your standard version of Windows 10. Specialty businesses sometimes rely on this licensing to keep legacy systems online, but in most cases, they will plan to move to the latest version of Windows within a short time frame. Most computers are not covered under Microsoft’s extended support and will lose security patches in October next year.
Let’s face it: it is time to move to Windows 11. The good news is that updating to Windows 11 is not particularly hard to do if you do a bit of planning.
What Should You Do?
So, what steps should you take to prepare for the EOL of Windows 10? Here are a few of our recommendations:
Check Software Compatibility:
Ensure that all the software and applications you use are compatible with the new operating system. Some older programs may not work on newer versions of Windows, so it’s important to verify this beforehand.
Backup Your Data:
Before making any changes, make sure to back up all your important data. This will prevent any loss of information during the transition.
Upgrade to a Newer Operating System:
The most straightforward solution is to upgrade to a newer version of Windows, such as Windows 11. This will ensure that you continue to receive updates and support from Microsoft.
Educate Your Team:
Make sure that everyone in your organization is aware of the upcoming changes and understands the importance of upgrading. Provide training if necessary to help them get comfortable with the new system.
Consult with IT Professionals:
If you’re unsure about how to proceed, consider consulting with IT professionals. They can provide guidance and support to ensure a smooth transition.
The End of Life for Windows 10 on October 15, 2025, is a significant event that requires attention and action. Whether you’re a business owner, healthcare provider, or individual user, it’s crucial to understand the implications and take steps to protect your data and systems. By upgrading to a newer operating system and following best practices for data security, you can ensure that your information remains safe and secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start planning your upgrade today!
