Director
ERP Subject Matter Expert. Solution Architect.
Effective Problem Solver

November 1, 2025

As of October 2025, Microsoft has officially ended support for Windows 10, including Enterprise LTSC editions bringing an end to regular security updates and technical assistance.

For many businesses, that date has come and gone and operations seem to be carrying on as usual. But beneath the surface, there’s a growing risk that could impact your ERP systems, data security, and business continuity.

It’s a major shift that affects the security, compliance, and performance of business critical systems including your ERP environment.

If your teams, reporting tools, or integrations still rely on Windows 10 devices, here’s what that means for your business.

What “End of Support” Actually Means

Now Microsoft has ended support, it has stopped releasing:

  • Security patches and updates

  • Bug fixes and performance improvements

  • Technical support and compatibility updates

That means every new vulnerability discovered from now on will remain open forever.

Cybercriminals actively target systems they know are unpatched. With no new updates, your servers (and the data and ERP applications that depend on them) are more exposed with every passing month.

Why Does This Matter for Your Systems?

Your ERP doesn’t exist in isolation. It relies on a network of servers, integrations, and databases. Many of which may still be using those now unsupported Windows environments.

Here’s what that means in practice:

  • Security gaps: ERP systems handling financial or personal data could now be non compliant with frameworks like ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials, or GDPR.

  • Compatibility issues: ERP vendors and third-party software providers are phasing out support for outdated platforms. That can break integrations or prevent upgrades.

  • Insurance exposure: Many cyber insurance policies exclude incidents tied to unsupported or end of life software.

  • Hidden costs: The longer legacy systems stay in place, the harder and more expensive migration becomes later

It’s Not All Bad News

This moment presents an opportunity to modernise, secure and optimise your ERP landscape for the future.

Here’s how forward thinking businesses are using this transition to their advantage:

Assess your current ERP environment

Identify where Windows 10 is still being used especially on devices that connect to your ERP, finance, or reporting tools.

Plan your upgrade

Transition to Windows 11 or consider cloud based virtual desktop solutions that provide secure, managed access to ERP systems.

Strengthen endpoint security

Until upgrades are complete, apply compensating controls: strict access management, network segmentation, and continuous monitoring.

By tackling this now, you’re not just responding to an IT issue; you’re building a more secure, future ready digital landscape.

As independent ERP consultants, we don’t push one provider. We find the right fit for your organisation.

Not sure where to start?

Our team of independent ERP consultants are here to help. Get in touch for advice on how to protect your systems and plan your next steps.

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