As you may know, Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025 (Microsoft). After this date, Windows 10 will no longer receive updates, including crucial security patches and support services. Given this significant change, we at Southridge Technology are committed to supporting our clients through the transition by developing upgrade plans tailored to each organization’s needs and regulatory requirements.
Why Upgrading Matters
Once Microsoft ceases updates, Windows 10 will become more vulnerable to security threats. For clients needing to meet compliance requirements—whether it be HIPAA for healthcare, CMMC for defense-related work, or specific cyber insurance mandates—an unpatched operating system could quickly result in security vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of breaches, fines, or the loss of critical insurance coverage. Cyber attackers often exploit systems no longer receiving security updates, so using an unsupported OS presents unacceptable risks in today’s cybersecurity landscape.
In fact, compliance frameworks like HIPAA and CMMC require adherence to stringent security practices, including the use of supported software. HIPAA, for instance, mandates “technical safeguards” to protect electronic health information, while CMMC requires maintaining security standards for contractors handling controlled unclassified information (CUI). Running unsupported software would put organizations in violation of these regulations.
What You Can Expect from Us
To ensure your organization’s smooth transition, we will work with you in 2025 to evaluate your systems and develop an upgrade plan that fits your requirements and budget. Here’s how we’ll assist:
1. Reviewing Hardware Compatibility: Not all current systems are compatible with Windows 11’s security requirements. Our team will evaluate each system to determine if it meets the hardware requirements for Windows 11, particularly focusing on TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capabilities, which Microsoft has made foundational to its security.
2. Developing Budget-Friendly Upgrade Plans: For systems that cannot meet Windows 11 requirements, we will discuss replacement options to ensure you are prepared for this transition in an economical and effective manner. We aim to help your organization incorporate these upgrades within your existing 2025 IT budget.
3. Addressing Compliance Needs: We will also review and ensure that your new systems meet security requirements to comply with the HIPAA, CMMC, and cyber insurance standards.
Upgrading with Security in Mind
Windows 11 brings advanced security features, such as enhanced phishing protection and Credential Guard, which help reduce vulnerabilities by limiting how and when passwords are stored and used. These features align with both CMMC and cyber insurance requirements for added security controls.
In addition, the move to Windows 11 allows us to implement Zero Trust security architectures more effectively. This approach limits access to resources based on need and behavior rather than broad privileges, further protecting against potential breaches.
Contact Us to Start Planning
We encourage you to begin discussing your Windows 10 upgrade with us now. Your account manager may have already reached out to you to discuss your 2025 budget, this was likely part of that conversation. Our team is here to help you ensure your systems remain both secure and compliant as we approach the end of Windows 10’s support. By planning early, we can help make this transition as smooth as possible for your organization.
If you’re not a client already and want to schedule a consultation or discuss your specific needs, please contact us. Let’s work together to keep your organization safe, secure, and compliant with today’s security standards.
Sincerely,
Southridge Technology
