URGENT: If your business is still running Windows 10, you need to take action now. This isn’t just another tech update – it’s a critical security deadline that could leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks. Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of life (EOL) on October 14, 2025. After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates or technical support, potentially putting your business at risk.
As your local technology partner in Fort Smith and the River Valley area, we want to ensure you’re prepared for this transition. Here’s what you need to know and how we can help.
What Does “End of Life” Mean for Your Business?
When Windows 10 reaches end of life, Microsoft will stop providing:
- Security updates and patches
- Technical support
- Feature updates and improvements
Here’s the alarming reality: Cybercriminals are already preparing their attacks, intentionally holding back newly discovered vulnerabilities until Microsoft stops issuing patches. Once Windows 10 reaches end of life, these hackers will unleash their stockpiled attacks, knowing they can never be patched. This isn’t speculation – it’s a well-documented pattern we’ve seen with previous operating system end-of-life events.
This situation is particularly dangerous for businesses handling sensitive information or maintaining regulatory compliance, such as healthcare providers and accounting firms. The first few months after the end-of-life date are typically when we see the most aggressive and successful attacks.
Why Upgrading Now Makes Business Sense
1. Protect Your Business from Cyber Threats
Without ongoing security updates, your systems become prime targets for cybercriminals. In today’s landscape where cyber attacks are increasingly sophisticated, running an unsupported operating system puts your business at unnecessary risk.
2. Maintain Access to Essential Business Tools
Microsoft has announced that Microsoft 365 apps won’t be supported on Windows 10 after October 14, 2025. To continue using these crucial business tools, you’ll need to upgrade to Windows 11 or purchase new devices.
3. Stay Compliant with Regulations
If your business must comply with regulations like HIPAA, PCI, or FTC Safeguard Rules, running an unsupported operating system will put you at risk of non-compliance. This is particularly crucial for our healthcare and financial sector clients in the River Valley area.
4. Improve Performance and Productivity
Windows 11 offers enhanced features and better performance on modern hardware. By upgrading now, you can take advantage of improvements that could help your team work more efficiently.
What Are Your Options?
1. Upgrade to Windows 11
Here’s a crucial detail many businesses don’t realize: If your computers were built before 2020, they likely cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 at all. This isn’t about meeting minimum specifications – it’s about fundamental hardware compatibility. The processor generation in pre-2020 computers simply isn’t compatible with Windows 11. However, if your devices were purchased in 2020 or later, they should be upgradeable if they meet these requirements:
- A 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster)
- 4 GB RAM or more
- 64 GB storage or more
- TPM version 2.0
- UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability
2. Replace Older Devices
If your computers don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, it’s time to consider replacing them. While this requires an upfront investment, new devices will provide better performance and security for years to come.
3. Get Professional Help
Managing an operating system upgrade across your entire business can be complex. As your local IT partner, D-Best Technologies can help:
- Assess your current systems
- Create a tailored upgrade plan
- Handle the transition with minimal disruption to your operations
- Ensure your data remains secure throughout the process
Act Now – October 2025 Will Be Too Late
The October 2025 deadline might seem far away, but waiting until then would be a devastating mistake. Once that date hits, your business will be immediately exposed to new, sophisticated cyber attacks that have been specifically designed to target Windows 10 systems. The time to act is now, while you can plan and implement changes on your own schedule – not under the pressure of an active security threat.
With less than a year until Windows 10’s end of life, now is the time to plan your upgrade strategy. Our team of local experts is here to help make this transition smooth and stress-free for your business.
How We Can Help
At D-Best Technologies, we’ve been serving Fort Smith businesses for over 30 years. We understand the unique challenges local businesses face and can provide:
- Free initial assessment of your current systems
- Custom upgrade plans that fit your budget and timeline
- Expert implementation with minimal disruption
- Ongoing support and security monitoring
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your business is prepared for Windows 10’s end of life. Don’t wait until it’s too late – protect your business with D-Best Technologies, your trusted local IT partner.
Call us at 479-226-3090 or book a meeting with the owner, Gareth, to learn more about how we can help your business transition smoothly to Windows 11.