What's Happening
As of October 2025, Microsoft will officially stop supporting Windows 10. This means that businesses using legacy applications on this operating system will face increased security risks and potential operational disruptions. However, there are ways to secure and redeploy these critical applications without having to undergo expensive and time-consuming updates.
Why this matters to your business
For many organizations, legacy applications are essential for daily operations. Without support, these apps can become vulnerable to security threats, leading to data breaches or system failures. Businesses that fail to address this issue may face costly downtime, regulatory penalties, or loss of customer trust. Conversely, taking proactive measures can help ensure continuity and reduce risks associated with outdated software.
Industry Impact Examples
Retail
Retailers using point-of-sale systems that run on Windows 10 might face interruptions. By securing these systems now, they can maintain customer transactions without glitches, preserving sales and customer satisfaction.
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Manufacturing
Factories relying on legacy systems for inventory management may risk production delays. Updating security protocols allows them to avoid costly shutdowns and keep operations smooth.
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Healthcare/Professional Services
Medical practices using legacy software for patient records could inadvertently expose sensitive data. Ensuring these systems are secured will protect patient information and comply with health regulations.
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Small Business
A small business using an old accounting software on Windows 10 risks losing financial data. Taking steps to secure these systems can prevent potential financial loss and maintain operational integrity.
Bottom line
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Opportunity
By addressing legacy app vulnerabilities now, businesses can enhance security, maintain operational continuity, and potentially save costs associated with data breaches and system failures.
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Risk
Ignoring this situation could lead to data loss, security breaches, and significant downtime, severely affecting revenue and customer trust.
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Timeline
Businesses should act immediately to assess their legacy applications and develop a strategy before support officially ends in October 2025.
Action Steps
Immediate action
Conduct an inventory of all legacy applications running on Windows 10 and assess their importance and security status.
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Medium-term consideration
Develop a plan to either upgrade these applications or implement security measures such as firewalls, encryption, or virtual environments for continued safe use.
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Resource or expert consultation
Consider reaching out to an IT consultant specializing in legacy systems to guide your security measures and help with the transition to new platforms if necessary.
Questions to Consider
• Are your critical operations dependent on legacy applications, and what is your current plan to address potential risks?
• How will your business adapt if a vital system were to fail unexpectedly due to lack of support?
• *Stay informed about technology trends that impact your business and make proactive decisions for a secure future.*