Time’s Up for Windows 10: NCSC Issues Security Warning – Is Your Business Prepared?
The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued a clear and urgent warning to individuals and organisations still running Windows 10: upgrade to Windows 11 now or face increasing cyber security risks after 14 October 2025.
This date marks the official end-of-life for Windows 10, meaning Microsoft will no longer provide essential security updates or technical support. For many businesses, especially SMEs already grappling with tight budgets and resource constraints, the temptation to delay the upgrade is understandable. But as the NCSC stresses, the risks of holding on are far greater than the cost of moving forward.
What Does End-of-Life Really Mean?
When an operating system reaches end-of-life, it doesn’t simply stop working—but it does become significantly more vulnerable. Without regular security patches, even small vulnerabilities can be exploited by cybercriminals, as we saw during the infamous WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017. The NCSC warns that unpatched systems make easy targets for threat actors, putting business data, operations, and reputations on the line.
Why Windows 11 Matters
Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 takes a “secure by default” approach, offering built-in features like:
- BitLocker encryption
- Virtualisation-Based Security (VBS)
- Secure Launch
- Credential Guard
- Native passkey management and enhanced Windows Hello access controls
These enhancements aren’t just technical upgrades—they’re essential layers of defence in a world where cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated by the day.
How ACC-IT Can Help
At ACC-IT, we understand that upgrading an operating system can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Our team offers fully managed IT support to help businesses transition smoothly from Windows 10 to Windows 11, minimising disruption and ensuring security every step of the way.
Whether you need:
- Hardware assessments and PC/laptop upgrades to meet Windows 11 requirements
- Software compatibility checks and licensing advice
- Help migrating to Microsoft 365 and cloud platforms
- Expert guidance on business-class anti-virus and active system monitoring
- Reliable backup solutions, remote support, and ongoing maintenance
—we’ve got you covered.
Our team can also evaluate your current network infrastructure, review your internet failover readiness, and ensure your routers and firewalls are optimised to support a secure Windows 11 environment.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
You now have less than three months to act. Cyber security isn’t just about firewalls and passwords—it starts with making sure your systems are supported, secure, and up to date.
If you’re still running Windows 10, now is the time to plan your upgrade. Get in touch with ACC-IT today for a no-obligation consultation and discover how we can help safeguard your systems for the future.