Microsoft Sets Deadlines for Windows 11 Upgrade - 'Migrate to Windows 11'
In less than a decade, Microsoft 365 users who choose to continue using Windows 10 after its end of support on October 14, 2025, may face significant security risks and operational challenges.
The impending end of support for Windows 10 means that Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or bug fixes for the operating system, leaving systems susceptible to malware, ransomware, viruses, and other cyberattacks. This vulnerability is compounded by the fact that unsupported operating systems become prime targets for cybercriminals, increasing the likelihood of data breaches, loss of sensitive information, and operational disruptions.
Moreover, organisations running Windows 10 post-end-of-support may face difficulties maintaining compliance with industry and legal regulations, risking fines or reputational damage. Additionally, future software, including Microsoft 365 apps and third-party applications, may no longer fully support or function on Windows 10, resulting in reduced productivity or application failures.
Microsoft will continue providing security updates for Microsoft 365 Apps on Windows 10 for three years after Windows 10 reaches end of support, extending support until October 2028. However, this does not include Windows 10 technical support.
The best practice for Microsoft 365 users is to upgrade to Windows 11, which ensures continued receipt of security updates, technical support, and software compatibility while enhancing cyber resilience. IT teams, especially in enterprises, are advised to begin migration planning immediately to avoid the pitfalls seen in prior end-of-support events and to reduce breach risk and compliance issues.
Microsoft advises enterprise users to move devices running Microsoft 365 Apps to Windows 11. Approximately 240 to 400 million PCs are not eligible to upgrade from Windows 10, and the focus should now be on finding a way to maintain secure systems for these devices.
Forbes reports that 250 million Microsoft Windows PCs are now vulnerable to attack, and the extensions for Windows 10 support are intended to facilitate a smooth transition. The static version of Microsoft 365 on Windows 10 will only receive feature updates until August 2026 for Current Channel, October 13, 2026 for Monthly Enterprise Channel, and January 12, 2027 for Semi-Annual Enterprise Channel.
Forbes also reports that the free upgrade from Windows 10 should be taken now, aligning with other warnings from Microsoft and government agencies. The article, however, does not explain the reasons behind Microsoft's decision to extend the support for Windows 10 or the reasons behind the different feature update dates for different channels of Microsoft 365 on Windows 10.
In summary, staying on Windows 10 post-October 14, 2025, exposes Microsoft 365 users to heightened cybersecurity risks and operational challenges. The clear best practice is to upgrade to Windows 11 before the deadline and ensure systems remain current and supported to safeguard data, maintain compliance, and enjoy uninterrupted productivity.
In light of the impending end of support for Windows 10, the vulnerability of unsupported operating systems like Windows 10 to cyberattacks, such as malware, ransomware, viruses, and other attacks, increases significantly. For this reason, technology advancements like the upgrade to Windows 11 are essential to maintain a secure and efficient digital environment, including continued technical support, improved cyber resilience, and compatibility with future software.
