At ATB Technologies, we’re spreading the word: starting Oct. 14, Microsoft is retiring Windows 10. After that day, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, patches, or tech support for the OS version businesses have relied on for years. For this reason, ATB encourages businesses to upgrade as soon as possible to protect their business and stay ahead of the game.

Updating is about protecting your business

Using software that’s outdated and no longer supported is dangerous business. That’s the case for Windows 10 and any software individuals and businesses use that no longer receive critical updates and safety patches. 

In today’s world, cyber criminals are constantly changing tactics and finding new ways to infiltrate business networks. Ensuring your business software and operating systems are up-to-date is critical to combating cyber threats, business disruptions and financial losses. Security patches and updated software should be non-negotiables in your business arsenal. When a company like Microsoft ends support for one of its programs, businesses need to take note and take action. 

“Everyone using Windows 10 needs to migrate to Windows 11,” said Chris Miller, ATB’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Hackers know there are 100 million devices on the market using Windows 10, and they’ll estimate half of those will be vulnerable because they’ll fail to upgrade. Once that happens, hackers will be focused on finding a security hole that won’t be fixed. If you stay on the old software, you have opened yourself up to a major risk.”

What else do I need to know?

Beyond cybersecurity, staying updated has other considerations for your business:

  • Future growth – Using old software means you miss out on new features and enhancements that can improve efficiencies and productivity. Companies lose ground when old software limits their ability to adapt and innovate with changing business practices, trends and trajectories. 
  • SaaS models – Although Windows 11 doesn’t fall under this category, many businesses purchase software through a SaaS (Software as a Service) model. This is a method of purchasing software licenses on a subscription service, either monthly or annually, which ensures your software remains up-to-date and receives important security patches. 
  • Hardware issues – At some point, old software won’t work with a computer’s hardware. The standard lifecycle for a PC computer is three to five years, and hardware needs to be updated to remain effective and secure. Businesses need to plan ahead and ensure important components don’t go out-of-date overnight. 

“At ATB, we’ve been discussing the Windows 10 retirement with our clients over the last six months,” Miller said. “We want to ensure businesses understand what’s involved in making the move to a new operating system and the importance of making the switch as soon as possible so they have the right level of support for the changeover.
In its announcement about the end of Windows 10, Microsoft said Windows 11 “offers a modern and efficient experience designed to meet current demands for heightened security.” If your business needs help making the switch, ATB Technologies has you covered. Let us guide you through a smooth upgrade and make sure your business stays protected. Reach out today at atb-tech.com/contact-us.

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