Hackers count on businesses getting lax with their IT. With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in October, now is the perfect reminder for why keeping your business’s hardware and software up-to-date is critical to staying secure.
Notices about updates for software, operating systems or firmware (software embedded in hardware like routers) are an almost daily occurrence. When your business operates using multiple software systems, platforms and user devices, the thought of keeping them updated can seem overwhelming. But staying on top of those updates is one of your business’s best lines of defense against data breaches, ransomware and other malicious attacks that can cost your business time, money and credibility.
Why Does This Matter?
According to the Cost of a Data Breach Report 2025 by IBM and the Ponemon Institute, the average cost of a data breach in the U.S. surged by 9% in the last year to $10.22 million, an all-time high for any region in the world. In addition, the report noted that 65% of organizations hit by a data breach have yet to fully recover from the incursion.
For months, Microsoft has been warning users that support for Windows 10 — one of the most used operating systems in the world — would end in October. We’ve been consistently spreading the word about this important development because when support ends, Microsoft will no longer offer security updates, technical support, or patches for this version of its OS. Any business still using Windows 10 after Oct. 14 will become vulnerable to hackers just waiting for the software to go out of date.
Software and firmware updates are crucial because they can fix bugs, improve functionality, and close security gaps. When you fall behind on installing those software and firmware updates, it leaves the door open for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in their security. Those holes in your security lead directly to your business’s network and connected devices and data.
Outdated software isn’t just a security risk — it can also leave businesses vulnerable to regulatory noncompliance. Frameworks like HIPAA, GDPR, and CCPA mandate secure, updated systems, and falling behind can lead to fines and contribute to reputational damage and lost trust.
Tips on Staying Up-To-Date
What’s a business to do? Below are some practical tips a business can use to stay current and keep their IT cybersecure:
- Enable automatic updates – Avoid relying on manual updates. Download patches as soon as they are issued by enabling automatic updates.
- Maintain an IT asset inventory – Keep track of your hardware, software and licenses and review them regularly to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
- Use centralized patch management tools – These tools allow IT teams (or a managed service provider like ATB Technologies) to manage and deploy updates for all devices and applications across a business from one central dashboard.
- Retire unsupported systems – When hardware or software reaches its end-of-life — as in the case of Windows 10 — replace it before its support and patches are no longer available.
- Layer security solutions – Combine multiple solutions to strengthen your IT security, including firewalls, antivirus, multi-factor authentication, and endpoint detection.
- Reach out for help – If you lack the staff or bandwidth to ensure your systems stay up-to-date, partnering with experts at a managed service provider like ATB can help ensure proactive monitoring and ongoing compliance for your business IT.
Want to Ensure Your Company’s IT Stays Up-To-Date?
At ATB Technologies, we help SMBs protect their network and assets with solutions that ensure they’re up-to-date on the latest software and hardware. Our team of IT experts can help customize solutions to match your needs and help you reach your goals. 👉 Schedule a free consultation today at atb-tech.com/contact-us to find out more.
About ATB Technologies
ATB Technologies is an award-winning managed service provider (MSP) that helps businesses solve technology problems and navigate which solutions best support their business strategy and goals. Our IT experts help companies maximize their business IT while offering an exceptional level of customer service. We’re ready to help and provide IT support that never lets you down. ATB has been twice recognized by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. Find out more at atb-tech.com.