A critical deadline is approaching for businesses worldwide. On October 14, 2025, Microsoft’s Windows 10 will reach its End of Support (EOS). After this date, devices running on the popular operating system will no longer receive free security updates, non-security updates, or technical support.

Continuing to use Windows 10 post-EOS exposes organizations to significant risks, including critical security vulnerabilities, cyber threats, and potential compliance violations. This is especially dangerous for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and financial institutions, which handle sensitive data and operate under strict regulatory standards. For these organizations, a timely upgrade isn’t just recommended—it’s essential for survival.

What Changes After Windows 10 Reaches End of Support?

While your Windows 10 PCs will continue to function after the October deadline, the environment they operate in will become increasingly hostile. Here are the key changes every business needs to understand:

• End of Free Security Updates: Microsoft will stop issuing free monthly security patches and bug fixes. This leaves systems wide open and increasingly vulnerable to new strains of malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks. While a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program may be an option, it is a costly and temporary solution.
• Growing Software Incompatibility: As developers focus on newer platforms, third-party applications and even Microsoft’s own services will gradually phase out support for Windows 10, leading to broken integrations and usability problems.
• Increased Compliance Risks: For regulated industries like finance and healthcare, operating on an unsupported OS can result in non-compliance with standards like PCI-DSS, GDPR, or HIPAA. This can lead to severe penalties, failed audits, and significant reputational damage.
• No New Features or Support: Windows 10 will be frozen in time, receiving no further feature enhancements or performance improvements. Official technical support from Microsoft will also be discontinued, leaving IT teams without a crucial resource.

Why Your Business Should Upgrade to Windows 11

Upgrading to Windows 11 is the definitive solution to the challenges posed by Windows 10 EOS. It offers a suite of modern features designed to enhance security, boost productivity, and ensure long-term stability.

• Advanced Security: Windows 11 is built on a foundation of hardware-based security, with features like Secure Boot, Windows Hello biometric authentication, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) providing robust, multi-layered protection for sensitive business and financial data.
• Optimized Performance: Experience faster boot times, more efficient memory management, and superior multitasking capabilities. Windows 11 is engineered for smooth day-to-day operations, perfect for handling high workloads and time-sensitive transactions.
• Integrated AI & Productivity: Leverage built-in AI tools like Microsoft Copilot to accelerate workflows and find information faster. Features like Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops allow for more organized and efficient task management, empowering teams to do more.
• Compliance-Ready Infrastructure: Windows 11 is designed to support modern compliance frameworks, including FIPS, GDPR, and HIPAA. Its integrated security features help organizations maintain regulatory standards with less overhead and stay audit-ready.

Secure Your Future with MSI Business Solutions

The end of Windows 10 support presents a perfect opportunity to modernize your IT infrastructure. Transitioning to Windows 11 on new, secure hardware is the best way to protect your business and ensure future success.

Upgrading to secure and future-ready devices such as MSI’s Cubi NUC series, PRO series desktops, and All-in-One PCs can help your organization ensure system stability, strengthen security, and maintain compliance with evolving industry standards.

To learn more about the upgrade process and ensure your business is prepared, visit MSI’s official Windows 11 upgrade page: https://www.msi.com/Landing/windows-11-upgrade