If your team is still running Windows 10, 14th October 2025 marks the end of support for this operating system. After this date, Windows 10 will stop receiving security patches and mainstream support, which may increase your organisation’s exposure to vulnerabilities and compatibility issues.
Microsoft 365 apps won’t suddenly stop working from this date, but they’ll have limited feature progression and security-only updates for a finite window, before support reduces further and they won’t be able to update. This can create extra risk if your business relies on Microsoft 365 for email, collaboration and day-to-day operations.
Note: If your organisation is looking to align with cyber compliance requirements for SMB1001, ISO or the ACSC’s Essential Eight, it’s important to be proactive making this update. Many of these frameworks expect organisations to patch and run supported operating systems – not end-of-life platforms.
Plan your move to Windows 11 now so you can keep Microsoft 365 secure and stable, support compliance and make the change on your own terms, instead of as a last-minute scramble.
How Updating To Windows 11 Can Support Your Microsoft 365 Experience
Microsoft 365 operates under what’s called the Modern Lifecycle Policy. In simple terms, this means if you want the latest features, security updates and a stable experience, your devices must run on an operating system that’s still supported by Microsoft.
Once Windows 10 reaches its end date on 14th October, it no longer meets this requirement.
Applications
Your Microsoft 365 apps may keep running for a while, but without ongoing feature updates, compatibility fixes and critical patches, your organisation will likely start to feel the strain. Performance could lag, reliability issues may creep in and you’ll have increased exposure to cyber risks.
Compliance
The end of Windows 10 support also represents a compliance risk. Cyber security frameworks and industry-specific certifications expect businesses to maintain secure, supported systems.
Running Microsoft 365 in Windows 10 after support ends undermines this expectation, and can put your data and reputation on the line.
Start planning your transition to Windows 11 now, so you can safeguard your organisation’s productivity and day-to-day operations, protect sensitive information and stay aligned with compliance standards.
The business case & benefits of migrating to Windows 11
Upgrading to Windows 11 will keep Microsoft 365 running smoothly for your business and better position you for the future. Consider the following benefits.
Stronger built in security
Windows 11 is designed with security at its core. Features that protect against common cyber threats are switched on automatically, which means fewer chances of malware attacks. (Businesses using Windows 11 have already seen a clear drop in security incidents compared to Windows 10.)
For organisations working towards compliance standards like the Essential Eight, this stronger protection makes it easier to tick these boxes.
Faster, more reliable performance
Nobody enjoys slow start-ups or lagging apps. Windows 11 delivers tangible performance improvements and is built for speed – like waking your device, browsing online and moving between programs.
Features like Snap Layouts also make multitasking easier by letting you arrange open windows neatly on your screen. Multiple desktops can enable your team members to stay organised and productive.
Overall, it’s ideal for improving productivity and creating smoother workflows.
Tools that support the user experience
The new interface retains the familiar feel of Windows 10 but looks cleaner and is simpler to use.
Accessibility features have been improved so all your team members can work comfortably.
Energy-saving updates can help reduce costs and environmental impact.
Microsoft Copilot is now also built into Windows 11, giving your team members access to an AI assistant that can help with research, answering questions, drafting content and managing everyday tasks within their desktops.
Switching to Windows 11 can help you achieve stronger security, improved performance and better tools, as well as support compliance. It’s an upgrade that can help your business start working smarter.
Ready to make the move to Windows 11? Get support with Microsoft 365 services. Inspired IT can help you manage the migration to help you get the most out of Microsoft 365, and keep your team secure and productive.
