As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. This means no more technical support, feature updates, or security patches. For businesses and non-profits, this change carries significant implications for data security, productivity, and operational efficiency.
What This Means for Your Organisation
Security Risks: Without security updates, Windows 10 systems become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats over time. If a vulnerability is found and no updates or patches are issued by Microsoft, it is only a matter of time before it is exploited by hackers, potentially leading to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. This is the most compelling reason not to continue using Windows 10 after support ends.
Operational Disruptions: The lack of technical support from Microsoft means any issues will need to be resolved internally or through costly third-party support and some problems that arise may never be fixed. Missing out on new features can also hinder productivity. However, this is not as critical as the security risks already mentioned.
Your Options
- Upgrading to Windows 11: The good news is that if you have an up-to-date laptop or desktop, you may have the option of a free upgrade to Windows 11. The process is usually straightforward and can be done by yourself without reinstalling or reconfiguring your machine. Most users will have already seen a pop-up from Microsoft suggesting that you proceed with the upgrade and offering you a wizard to guide you through the steps involved, which include:
- Check Compatibility: Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.
- Backup Data: Ensure all important data is backed up.
- Free Up Space: Windows 11 requires a minimum of 64 GB.
- Perform the Upgrade: Follow Microsoft’s instructions or seek professional assistance.
- Post-Upgrade Checks: Verify all hardware and applications are working correctly.
For more detailed instructions, visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 upgrade page https://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-11-specifications?ocid=smc_marvel_ups_support_win11.
- Purchasing New Laptops or Desktops: If you run the compatibility check and it shows your current hardware is incompatible with Windows 11, it probably means you are missing the security features the new Windows requires or you are lacking sufficient disk space. All laptops and desktops designed for Windows and released in the last couple of years will already comply with the requirements. Please be aware, though, that some of the cheaper devices being sold in the Solomon Islands may be new but are several generations behind the current version and may not be compatible.Of course, Positive Developments offers a range of business machines on our website https://shop.positivesolomon.com/eshop/product-category/laptops/. These are all the current generation and come with a year’s warranty and after-sales service.
Conclusion
Proactively addressing the end of Windows 10 support by either upgrading to Windows 11 or investing in new hardware will help keep your organisation secure and productive. If you need assistance, our team at Positive Developments SI Ltd is here to provide professional IT advice and support to ensure a smooth transition.
Stay Secure. Stay Productive. Stay Ahead. Visit https://cloud.positivesolomon.com/cloud/