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The Hidden Costs and Risks of Delaying Your Windows 11 Migration

As the Windows 10 end-of-life date looms just six months away, many organizations are still debating their next move. While postponing your migration may seem like the easiest route, the reality is that staying on Windows 10 comes with mounting costs, security vulnerabilities, and compliance risks that could far outweigh the effort of upgrading.

The True Cost of Staying on Windows 10

Windows 10 support officially ends on October 14, 2025. After that, Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates, leaving systems exposed to potential cyber threats. Organizations that choose not to upgrade must either:

  • Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs): These updates come at a steep and increasing annual cost per device.

  • Accept security risks: Running an unsupported OS means exposing your organization to critical vulnerabilities.

  • Fall out of compliance: Regulated industries like healthcare, finance, and education may face penalties, higher insurance costs, or legal repercussions for running outdated software.

Security Risks: Outdated Systems Are Prime Targets

Cybercriminals actively exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software. In fact, 60% of data breaches stem from unpatched security flaws. Without regular security updates, Windows 10 devices will become easy targets for malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks, increasing the likelihood of business disruptions and financial losses.

Windows 11 provides built-in advanced security features, including:

✔ TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): A dedicated security chip that encrypts data, protects credentials, and ensures only verified software runs on devices.

✔ Secure Boot & Windows Hello: Strengthens device authentication and prevents unauthorized access.

✔ Zero Trust Readiness: Meets modern cybersecurity standards for proactive threat prevention.

Regulatory and Compliance Risks

For businesses in regulated industries, staying on Windows 10 could mean falling out of compliance. Cyber insurance providers are also tightening their policies, often requiring up-to-date and supported software to qualify for coverage. Non-compliance can lead to:

  • Regulatory fines and audits

  • Higher cyber insurance premiums

  • Legal and reputational damage

The Migration Timeline: Why 6 Months is Closer Than You Think

The transition to Windows 11 isn’t just a software update—it requires planning, testing, and training. With only six months left, IT teams need to start now to ensure a smooth migration. Key steps include:

  1. Assess Device Compatibility – Identify which systems support Windows 11 and determine if hardware upgrades are needed.

  2. Plan for TPM 2.0 Compliance – Ensure all devices meet security requirements for Windows 11.

  3. Train Employees on the New OS – Minimize disruptions by preparing users for changes.

  4. Establish a Phased Rollout – Reduce downtime by migrating in stages.

The Bottom Line: Time is Running Out

Every day you delay, the risks—and costs—grow. Waiting until the last minute could mean scrambling for costly ESUs, facing security breaches, or dealing with compliance fallout.

We can help you navigate your Windows 11 migration. Whether you need assistance assessing your current environment, planning your rollout, or ensuring compliance, our experts are ready to support your transition.

Talk to a Migration Expert Today.