Windows 10: What Now?

What Happens After Windows 10 Retires and Support Ends?

Unpatched Vulnerabilities: 

Your Windows 10 PC will continue to function, but it will not receive security fixes, bug fixes, or new features from Microsoft. After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer release security patches for Windows 10, leaving systems exposed to known and newly discovered flaws that attackers can exploit.

Increased Malware and Ransomware Threats: 

Unsupported Windows 10 PCs become prime targets for malware authors, making infection by viruses and ransomware, which encrypt files and demand payment, significantly more likely. 

Network-Wide Impact: 

A single infected Windows 10 PC can serve as an entry point for attackers to move laterally into other systems and cloud applications across the entire network. 

Compliance and Legal Issues: 

Many industries have regulatory requirements for using supported and secure software; using an unsupported OS can lead to non-compliance, potential fines, and legal consequences. 

Lack of Technical Support: 

Microsoft will stop providing technical support for Windows 10, making it harder to troubleshoot problems or security-related issues. 

How to Stay Protected –

Upgrade to Windows 11: 

The most secure option is to upgrade to Windows 11 if your hardware is eligible, as it was designed with enhanced security features like Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and virtualization-based security.  

Replace Your Device: 

If your current hardware is not compatible with Windows 11, purchase a new Windows 11 PC to get a more secure foundation for your computing needs.

If you have any PCs in your network still on Windows 10, please reach out to WNC to discuss your options and make a plan.