In a recent survey by Canalys, a concerning trend has emerged among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) regarding their readiness for the impending end-of-service (EoS) for Windows 10. Despite Microsoft’s clear announcement that support will cease on October 14, 2025, a significant portion of these businesses appears to be caught off guard.
Awareness and Preparedness Issues
The poll revealed that over a third (35%) of channel partners reported their SMB clients are either unaware of the upcoming EoS deadline or lack a definitive plan to transition away from Windows 10. Alarmingly, 14% of respondents admitted they do not even know that support for Windows 10 is ending soon. This lack of awareness raises serious concerns about the security and compliance implications of continuing to operate on an unsupported system.
As the market for business PCs continues to grow—evidenced by a 9.4% year-on-year increase in shipments, reaching 62.7 million units in Q1 2025—many businesses still lag in their software preparedness. The impending EoS will leave countless laptops vulnerable, devoid of essential updates and security patches that are critical for safeguarding sensitive information.
Potential Costs of Inaction
Industry experts warn that the absence of upgrade plans could lead to significant financial repercussions for SMBs, especially as higher tariffs come into play. Dutt, a market analyst, noted that “subsequent quarters this year are likely to see a slowdown” as rising prices and diminishing demand create a challenging environment for businesses. Those who delay their upgrades may find themselves facing supply constraints at a time when endpoint security is more crucial than ever.
While Microsoft continues to enhance Windows 11 to make it more appealing, the reality remains that the clock is ticking down to the Windows 10 EoS. For businesses eager to navigate this transition smoothly, a structured approach is essential. Here is a six-step countdown to Windows 10 EoS and strategies to prepare effectively:
- Assess current hardware and software inventory.
- Evaluate the compatibility of existing applications with Windows 11.
- Develop a timeline for upgrades and migrations.
- Allocate budget for necessary hardware and software investments.
- Train staff on new systems and security protocols.
- Implement a robust endpoint security strategy to mitigate risks during the transition.
As the deadline approaches, proactive measures will be key for SMBs to ensure they remain competitive and secure in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
