If you're still using Windows 10, you're not alone.
Even though Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, plenty of businesses still have a computer or two running it. The challenge is that nothing looks different. Your computer still starts up, your programs still open, and work carries on like normal.
That's exactly what makes this easy to ignore.
The real change is happening behind the scenes. Windows 10 is no longer receiving security updates from Microsoft. Every new vulnerability discovered from this point forward will remain unpatched, making unsupported computers more vulnerable as time goes on.
If you're one of our managed business clients, you can breathe easy. Before Windows 10 reached end of support, we audited every managed environment, upgraded eligible computers to Windows 11, and worked with clients to create a plan for any systems that couldn't be upgraded. If you're managed by Layer 2 Computers, we've already done the heavy lifting.
If you're not sure whether every computer in your business has been upgraded, now is a good time to find out.
What Does "End of Support" Really Mean?
When Microsoft ends support for an operating system, it stops providing updates. That includes monthly security patches, bug fixes, feature updates, and technical support.
Your computer doesn't suddenly stop working. In fact, you'll probably notice very little difference at first.
The problem is that Windows itself never stops being researched. Security experts continue finding new vulnerabilities, and unfortunately, so do cybercriminals. Before October 2025, Microsoft released updates to fix those issues. Now those fixes simply aren't coming.
As more vulnerabilities are discovered over time, unsupported computers become easier targets because attackers know those security holes aren't going to be patched.
Why Businesses Should Pay Attention
This isn't just about using an older version of Windows. Running an unsupported operating system can create several challenges for your business.
The biggest concern is security. Attackers routinely look for computers running outdated software because they're often the easiest way into a network. The UK's National Cyber Security Centre has repeatedly warned that unsupported software remains vulnerable and can often be exploited by relatively low-skilled attackers.
Security is only part of the picture.
Many industries require businesses to keep their systems current. If you process credit cards, work with healthcare information, or store sensitive customer data, regulations such as PCI DSS or HIPAA generally expect supported, fully patched operating systems. Continuing to run Windows 10 could create compliance concerns.
We've also seen cyber insurance providers ask more detailed questions during renewals. Running unsupported operating systems may increase premiums, reduce coverage, or make claims more complicated after a security incident.
Then there's the software you use every day. Browsers, accounting programs, and other business applications eventually stop supporting older operating systems. Windows 10 may continue running, but over time the software you depend on may stop receiving updates or stop working as expected.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) continues to recommend keeping operating systems fully supported and updated as one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce cybersecurity risk.
What Are Your Options?
Fortunately, most businesses have several paths forward.
If your computer is compatible with Windows 11, upgrading is usually the easiest and least expensive solution. Microsoft still offers the upgrade at no cost for supported hardware. Most computers purchased within the last several years qualify, although Windows 11 does require a supported processor, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot. Microsoft's free PC Health Check app can quickly tell you whether a particular computer is eligible.
If a computer can't be upgraded right away, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates, commonly called ESU. Think of this as a temporary bridge rather than a permanent solution. You'll continue receiving security patches, but you won't receive new features or ongoing technical support.
For businesses, ESU starts at $61 per device for the first year. The cost doubles each year, bringing the three-year total to approximately $427 per device. For home users, Microsoft offers a separate program that costs $30 for up to ten devices through October 12, 2027, with some users qualifying at no cost by syncing their PC settings.
For older computers, replacement is often the better long-term investment. Once you add together several years of ESU costs and the reality of maintaining aging hardware, purchasing a new Windows 11 computer frequently ends up being the more economical choice.
Don't Wait Until Something Breaks
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is assuming everything is fine simply because their computers are still working.
Unfortunately, unsupported operating systems don't usually announce that they're becoming a problem. The risk builds quietly over time until a software compatibility issue, compliance audit, or security incident forces the conversation.
A simple review of your computers can identify which systems are already running Windows 11, which ones qualify for a free upgrade, and which ones should be replaced instead of investing additional money into aging hardware.
Having a plan today is almost always less expensive than dealing with an emergency tomorrow.
We're Here to Help
If you're a managed Layer 2 client, this is one item you can cross off your list. We reviewed our managed clients before Windows 10 reached end of support to make sure everyone had a plan in place.
If you're unsure about your own computers, we'd be happy to help you determine where you stand. Sometimes the solution is a simple Windows 11 upgrade. Other times it's a conversation about replacing older hardware before it becomes a bigger problem.
Either way, knowing where you stand is the first step toward keeping your business secure.
