Understanding the implications of Windows 10 EOL – and how best to handle it – is critical for small businesses in Brighton and beyond. You need to ensure your systems remain secure, compliant, and don’t create unnecessary problems. Read our blog to understand the risks, remedies, and how we can help you transition smoothly away from Windows 10.

Microsoft’s free support for Windows 10 ended on 14 October 2025. PCs running Windows 10 continue to work, but without ongoing security updates they are increasingly vulnerable to new threats.

In response to the significant number of devices still running Windows 10 – over 25% of Windows devices worldwide as of May 2026 – Microsoft has extended its Extended Security Updates programme. ESUs are now available until 12 October 2027, a year later than originally planned.

This is good news for businesses that haven’t yet upgraded, but it’s important to be clear: ESU is a paid stopgap, not a long-term solution. Transition away from Windows 10 is still required, the clock is just running a little slower.

Without free, automatic security updates from Microsoft, Windows 10 devices are increasingly exposed to new cyber threats. The ESU programme provides continued security patches for enrolled devices, but only while the programme runs and only for businesses that have enrolled. Devices not enrolled in ESU are unprotected.

Business software compatibility may decrease as software developers focus on newer operating systems like Windows 11. This means the core functionality of the software your business relies on for success may stop working. You may also deny your business access to the latest software innovations, which will be built to support newer operating systems above older ones. This risks putting your business on the back foot versus your competitors who have already upgraded.

Many industries – for example finance, legal, telecoms and healthcare – have strict regulations regarding data protection and running up-to-date software. Businesses that continue to use an unsupported operating system run the risk of fines and legal issues. Outside those risks, using out-of-date systems can present a damaging picture of your business’ commitment to operating efficiently.

So those are the risks of continuing with Windows 10. But, what are your options as a small business to transition away from the old operating system?

Upgrading to Windows 11 is Microsoft’s recommended option. This course of action will offer enhanced security features, improved performance and a modern user interface. Importantly, it is an operating system that will be supported by Microsoft for the foreseeable future, meaning security updates and tech support remain readily available.

Even if your existing software was built for an earlier version of Windows, you can be confident it will work with Windows 11. Application compatibility is a core part of the Microsoft development process. As well as this, businesses can access Test Base for Microsoft 365 to test any critical apps before switching to Windows 11. This helps ensure business continuity throughout the transition.

Furthermore, with App Assure, if you do find compatibility issues, all you need to do is raise a free support request and a Microsoft technician will make that existing software work with Windows 11.

If you have computers older than 2018, it won’t be possible to upgrade them to Windows 11. They will need to be replaced with new, more modern hardware.

Even if your computers can be upgraded to Windows 11, an operating system overhaul can present a good opportunity to upgrade your PCs and laptops simultaneously. Why not take advantage of investing in modern machines that can improve productivity, reduce downtime and enhance overall performance at the same time to avoid disruption on two separate occasions?

One hardware upgrade option to consider is Copilot+ PCs. These laptops come with advanced AI features, powerful processors and enhanced security features. This makes them a solid future-proof choice, particularly for small businesses looking to stay ahead of the competition in the local Brighton area.

If upgrading to Windows 11 straightaway isn’t an option for your business, Microsoft will offer Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 until 12 October 2027 – a year later than originally planned. There is a cost per device to enrol and ESUs are only available for eligible devices. You should still transition away from Windows 10 before October 2027, so ESU should be treated as additional breathing room to plan your upgrade properly, not a permanent fix.

With any operating system transition, the most important thing for any business to do is be prepared. If yours is a business based in Brighton or Sussex, we can help. From assessment and planning, right the way through to hardware recycling, the AJT Managed IT Services team can support you through every aspect of Windows 10 end of life.

We can conduct a thorough assessment of your current systems and software to create a tailored migration plan for your business. Migration timelines will be established so you and your staff know what to expect and when. Throughout the timeline, we’ll provide hands-on support for upgrading to Windows 11 or setting up ESUs if appropriate. We’ll carry out any required installations and configurations, and ensure all data and applications are seamlessly transferred to keep your business running as smoothly as possible.

We’ll help you identify opportunities to upgrade your hardware, without overselling equipment you don’t need. If any of your old computers need replacing, we’ll take them off your hands and ensure they are responsibly recycled. This helps you do you your bit for the planet and ensures that any business data is unrecoverable.

As a managed service provider offering a wide range of IT support options, we’re here to be your long-term IT partner. We offer continuous support to address any issues that may arise after the transition, and ensure any future updates are applied regularly. Whatever you need from your IT systems to help keep your business running smoothly, we can help.