The Compliance Risks of Not Upgrading from Windows 10 to 11
With Microsoft set to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, organisations that fail to upgrade to Windows 11 will face significant compliance and security risks.
Cybersecurity standards, including Cyber Essentials, emphasise the importance of using supported and up-to-date software. If businesses do not upgrade, they may struggle to meet essential security and compliance requirements.
Key Compliance Risks of Staying on Windows 10
- Security Vulnerabilities
After October 2025, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, leaving devices exposed to cyber threats. Compliance frameworks like Cyber Essentials require businesses to use supported software with security patches to mitigate risks. Failure to do so increases the likelihood of breaches, data leaks, and regulatory fines. - Non-Compliance with Cyber Essentials
Cyber Essentials, a UK government-backed certification, mandates that organisations maintain secure configurations, apply security updates, and use supported software. Running an unsupported operating system automatically fails the certification, impacting businesses that require it for government contracts or supply chain credibility. - Increased Cyber Insurance Costs
Cyber insurers assess security posture before issuing policies. Using an unsupported OS increases cyber risk, potentially leading to higher premiums or denial of coverage in the event of a cyberattack. - Data Protection & Regulatory Breaches
Under GDPR and other data protection regulations, businesses must implement "appropriate security measures" to protect personal data. Running outdated software could be deemed negligent, leading to fines and legal consequences in the event of a data breach. - Business Continuity Risks
Many software vendors and third-party applications will phase out support for Windows 10, potentially causing compatibility issues, system failures, and operational disruptions. This could lead to downtime and financial losses.
What Should Organisations Do?
- Plan and Budget for Upgrades: Start migrating devices to Windows 11 before the deadline to avoid last-minute risks.
- Check Device Compatibility: Some older devices may not support Windows 11, requiring hardware upgrades or replacements.
- Ensure Compliance with Cyber Essentials: Maintain security best practices to meet certification requirements and protect business operations.
How can New Era help?
We understand that upgrading collaboration tools and migrating to Windows 11 can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer:
- Windows 11 Assessments: We will work with you on a full assessment of your current devices, helping identify device compatibility and refresh needs.
- Flexible Financing Options:
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AV Equipment:
- Spread costs over a defined period with our AVaaS, instead of incurring large upfront expenses.
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AV-as-a-Service (AVaaS):
- Monthly payments covering installation, support, and refresh cycles.
- Sustainable IT Solutions: Return outdated devices for responsible recycling and future-proofed replacements.
Start Your Windows 11 Migration Today
A successful Windows 11 migration isn’t just about upgrading operating systems, it’s about optimising collaboration and ensuring your business remains competitive. By including Teams Rooms in your migration strategy, you with enhance workplace modernisation, streamline operations, and future-proof your IT investment.
Contact us today to explore how we can support your Windows 11 migration and meeting room refresh strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 can increase exposure to unsupported software, security vulnerabilities, and compliance gaps once support ends. For many organisations, that can affect audit readiness, data protection, and operational resilience. For a closer look at these compliance risks, read our detailed guide.
Windows 10 support ends on 14 October 2025, after which Microsoft will no longer provide regular security updates. That matters for compliance because unsupported systems are harder to defend and harder to justify within recognised security frameworks. If you are reviewing your next steps, explore how modern workplace and infrastructure planning can support your transition.
Yes. Cyber Essentials requires supported software and current security updates, so continuing to run an unsupported operating system may affect certification or renewal. A planned move to a supported Microsoft environment can help reduce that risk. Learn more about New Era Technology’s Microsoft expertise.
Unsupported devices can create GDPR risk because they may no longer receive the security updates needed to help protect personal data appropriately. If a breach occurs, outdated systems may make it harder to show that suitable safeguards were in place. For more on the wider compliance impact, see our related article.
It can. Insurers often assess an organization’s security posture, and unsupported operating systems may be viewed as a higher risk, which can influence premiums or coverage decisions. Moving to a supported platform and improving endpoint security can strengthen your position. To discuss a broader Microsoft and security strategy, visit our Microsoft partnership page.
Older Windows 10 environments may face compatibility issues, reduced third-party support, and a greater risk of disruption as vendors move away from the platform. That can lead to downtime, service interruptions, and added pressure on internal IT teams. For more detail on these business continuity risks, read the full article.
Start by reviewing hardware compatibility, security requirements, and application dependencies across your environment, as some older devices may need replacement or remediation before upgrading. A clear assessment helps you prioritise budgets, timelines, and rollout phases. If you need support planning the next step, connect with the team.
Begin with a full device inventory, confirm Windows 11 compatibility, and review compliance, cyber insurance, and operational dependencies before the deadline. Early planning gives you more control over cost, timing, and risk reduction. To explore Microsoft-focused migration and modernisation support, visit our Microsoft partnership page.