Windows 10 has been a reliable Windows operating system for many businesses and individuals for years. But with Microsoft shifting focus to Windows 11, we understand that for some users this may not be an option due to Windows update compatibility concerns.
We would always recommend updating to the latest version of Windows unless absolutely necessary however if you do require to keep some Windows 10 devices, this is how to remain as secure as possible.
Once Windows 10 support ends, any of your connected devices will become vulnerable to cyber threats.
If you must continue using Windows 10 after its end-of-life date in October 2025, you should consider isolating these devices from any internet and network access.
Security Vulnerabilities: After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop releasing Windows 10 updates, including vital security patches. This creates a wide attack surface for malware and hackers.
Outdated Compatibility: Many new applications and hardware components will gradually phase out Windows 10 compatibility.
Ineffective Protection: Without ongoing updates, firewalls and antivirus software become less effective over time on Windows 10 systems.
If these devices cannot be upgraded, keeping them offline is the safest way to avoid breaches.
Yes, but with caution.
Reinstalling Windows 10 on new hardware is possible before the Windows 10 end of support date, but after that your risk will increase significantly.
Hardware Compatibility: While most current systems support Windows 10, this will change quickly as more manufacturers prioritise Windows 11.
Licensing: You’ll need a valid Windows 10 license key. We suggest you use only trusted sources and official Microsoft ISOs.
Offline Security: After support ends, newly reinstalled systems should be kept offline to avoid threats.
Download Windows 10 from Microsoft’s official website before the support ends.
Create a bootable USB using the Windows 10 Update Assistant or Media Creation Tool.
Disconnect the device from the internet.
Proceed with installation and disable any network settings post-setup.
Manually install drivers and essential tools via secure offline sources.
We strongly recommend speaking with an IT expert to ensure this process is done correctly and in line with recommended security best practices.
View our simple how to guide on checking the compatibility of reinstalling Windows 10 on any machine or looking to upgrade to Windows 11.
If you continue using Windows 10 online after support ends, you’re exposing your business to the following threats:
Cyber Attacks: Malware and ransomware will likely target unsupported Windows 10 systems.
Data Breaches: No security updates means sensitive data is far more vulnerable to exploitation.
Compliance Failures: Many data protection frameworks (like GDPR or ISO 27001) require systems to be patched and supported. Using Windows 10 post-end-of-life can result in non-compliance penalties.
Example: The WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 heavily impacted unpatched Windows systems, including Windows 7. The same could happen to Windows 10 after support ends.
The simple answer is no, not unless you’re using Extended Security Updates (ESU) or have a strategy to isolate unsupported devices.
To achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification, all in-scope devices must run operating systems supported by the manufacturer. Since Windows 10 end of life occurs in October 2025, any machine running it afterward without ESU would fail Cyber Essentials requirements.
However, at Syn-Star, we’ve successfully helped clients work around this by isolating legacy systems and maintaining compliance through controlled environments.
Yes, you could be affected significantly.
Cyber insurance providers typically require:
Supported operating systems
Routine patching
A secure network environment
If you continue using Windows 10 without support:
You may struggle to get cyber insurance coverage
Your premiums may increase
Claims may be rejected if a breach involves an unsupported OS
By planning now, you can avoid these consequences and transition with minimal disruption.
We offer custom solutions for regulated industries still relying on older systems to ensure you can obtain cyber insurance while using an unsupported operating system however this a very specific field of expertise and requires a lot of strict IT processes to remain compliant.
If you’re thinking about upgrading, now is the time to act. Microsoft’s Windows 11 is built for modern security and performance standards.
Still deciding? Here are answers to common questions:
To ensure a smooth transition for your entire team, consider the following steps:
Assess Your Current Systems: Run an inventory of all devices currently running Windows 10 and ensure their compatibility with Windows 11 or other operating systems.
Develop an Upgrade Plan: Create a detailed plan outlining timelines, resources, and responsibilities for the upgrade. you may find some machines require an upgrade or replacement, starting the process early will ensure you are not hit by an unexpected expense.
Back Up Your Data: Before making any changes, back up your important files to prevent data loss. We would always suggest a physical and digital backup is complete of all systems.
Test the New System: Implement a pilot program to test the new operating system on a small group of devices before completing the full role out on all machines to ensure your employees do not experience downtime.
Train Your Team: Provide training for employees to ensure they are comfortable with the new system and its features.
Not to worry, we are here to help!
Out team have the expertise to complete all the above steps so your team arnt affected.
Whether you’re planning a full upgrade or need to keep some devices isolated after Windows 10 end of support, expert advice is essential.
Syn-Star supports organisations across the UK in managing:
Windows 10 migration strategies
Secure system isolation
Compliance with Cyber Essentials and GDPR
Cyber insurance audits and support
As convenient as Windows 10 may be, continuing to use it past October 14, 2025, without a proper plan is a serious risk. The best time to act is now — whether you’re upgrading, isolating, or transitioning your systems.
Contact us today for a consultation tailored to your business.
Support will officially end for Windows 10 on the 14th of October 2025.
We recommend getting in touch with a support provider as soon as possible to ensure all work that needs to be carried out is completed before support for Windows 10 ends.
If you are seeing performance issues while currently still using Windows 10 prior to the end of life date here are a few things you can do to boost performance.
Yes, Windows 10 is currently supported until the 14th of October 2025.
Contact us now to ensure your business is prepared in advance.
Yes, especially in terms of speed, user interface, and advanced security Windows 11 is the better option.
This article is primarily for businesses that are unable to upgrade to Windows 11 due to machine compatibility issues which can not be avoided.
As best practice we recommend you upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible.
Get in touch with one of our IT expert today!
Just because some of your machines are currently not compatible doesn’t mean they never will be.
Speak to one of our IT experts about your upgrade options today.
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
Anne-Marie Blazdell
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
Learn more about IT Support
Anne-Marie Blazdell is a Marketing & Communications Manager with expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and IT solutions. With a strong foundation in graphic design, she trained at Farnborough College of Technology and Southampton Solent University before advancing into marketing and business IT support.
Since joining Syn-Star in 2022, Anne-Marie has specialised in crafting SEO-optimised website content, managing social media, and helping businesses navigate the complexities of IT. Her work bridges the gap between technology and business, making IT more accessible and effective.
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