3 Cybersecurity Risks of Not Upgrading to Windows 11

Cybersecurity threats of not updating

If you have not yet upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11 you’re running out of time.  Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. While the transition may seem daunting, the risks of staying on an unsupported OS are far greater.

Here are three major cybersecurity risks of not upgrading to Windows 11:

1. No More Security Updates or Patches

Once Windows 10 reaches its end of life, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, bug fixes, or vulnerability patches. This leaves systems exposed to newly discovered threats, including:

  • Zero-day exploits that attackers can use without fear of a fix.
  • Ransomware attacks that target known vulnerabilities.
  • Malware infections that spread through unpatched systems.

Without regular updates, even the most cautious users become easy targets for cybercriminals.

2. Incompatibility with Modern Security Tools

As software vendors shift their focus to Windows 11, many modern security tools and antivirus programs will stop supporting Windows 10. This means:

  • Outdated antivirus definitions that miss new threats.
  • Lack of support for advanced threat protection features.

Staying on Windows 10 could mean relying on outdated tools that can’t keep up with today’s sophisticated cyber threats.

3. Increased Risk of Compliance Violations

For organizations, using unsupported software can lead to non-compliance with industry regulations. This can result in:

  • Hefty fines and legal consequences.
  • Loss of customer trust due to data breaches.
  • Damage to brand reputation and operational disruptions.

Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your systems remain compliant with evolving security standards and regulatory requirements.

The end of Windows 10 support is more than just a technical milestone—it’s a cybersecurity turning point. Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just about accessing new features; it’s about protecting your data, your organization, and your peace of mind.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you have machines still running Windows 10, or aren’t sure if you have machines running Windows 10, contact us today.