Not yet moving to Windows 11? You’re putting your organisation at risk

Cybercriminals now regularly employ advanced technologies, including AI, to orchestrate highly targeted attacks that exploit any vulnerabilities within organisations’ digital infrastructures. The average cost of a data breach in Australia has grown to an alarming A$4.26 million as of 2024, above and beyond the compliance considerations, and organisations simply cannot afford complacency.

With data breach frequency increasing by 119% between 2021 and 2024 and more than 247 million records compromised in 2024 alone, the situation is often more critical than even the risk-averse are aware.

There is no such thing as a totally impenetrable security environment, but one can resist this threat. Doing so starts at the foundation; this means keeping technology up to date and ensuring all software and systems are always fully patched.

This is why the imminent end-of-support (EOS) date for Windows 10, set for 14 October 2025, presents such a critical risk factor for countless businesses. While Windows 10 has undoubtedly served as the cornerstone of digital operations for many organisations, its continued use beyond this deadline will mean businesses will rapidly find themselves behind the eight-ball and unable to access services that remedy that vulnerability.

Organisations that have not yet begun planning their transition to Windows 11 Pro risk facing a daunting array of cyberthreats that could compromise their security posture, regulatory compliance, and overall competitiveness. With Windows 11 Pro offering up to 40% more security features compared to Windows 10, making the switch is no longer just an operational decision but a crucial security imperative.

According to Chris Bright, Microsoft A/NZ Device Partner Sales Lead, it is really concerning that the majority of devices still run on Windows 10 despite Windows 11 devices gaining ground. Organisations with those devices increasingly look like they’re playing a game of chicken over whether they can switch in time.

Microsoft

What it means to miss the mark

Organisations relying on an outdated operating system like Windows 10 after the EOS date will face numerous challenges that go far beyond mere inconveniences. These include:

• Data breaches – Unpatched security vulnerabilities represent an open door for cybercriminals, resulting in loss of sensitive customer information, intellectual property theft, and hefty financial penalties. This risk is amplified in today’s threat landscape, with 20 to 25 major ransomware attacks occurring every day in 2024, specifically targeting vulnerable systems that lack current security updates.
• Compliance and regulatory penalties – Regulatory bodies, including the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), increasingly demand rigorous data protection measures. Using outdated software could lead to non-compliance with regulations such as the Privacy Act and subsequent penalties.
• Operational disruptions – Unaddressed vulnerabilities and unsupported systems can cause significant downtime, affecting productivity, customer service, and overall business continuity. The cost of recovery? An average of US$4.54 million, encompassing ransom, downtime, legal, and reputation.
• Sluggish innovation – Organisations stuck on outdated platforms will struggle to integrate new technologies and remain competitive. This could result in a critical loss of market share and innovation capacity, limiting growth opportunities.

Bright stresses that over three million commercial Windows Pro devices in ANZ are still unable to upgrade to Windows 11. “Prompt action is critical to ensure continued protection, performance, and support,” he adds.

It’s also it’s important to understand that upgrading the fleet to Windows 11 isn’t just a story of responding to a hard deadline. There are several good reasons beyond security that organisations should have been making the switch.

For instance, Windows 11 has several AI features unavailable on Windows 10. This is a central reason why Windows 11 is not compatible with a substantial number of older Windows 10 devices. Therefore, the upgrade is also a foundational step towards embracing AI within the business.

Beyond the technological benefits, businesses that upgrade to Windows 11 Pro can achieve a remarkable 250% ROI over three years, thanks to improved performance and reduced maintenance costs. Upgrading to Windows 11 Pro can lead to an average of 50% increase in workflow efficiency, with surveys indicating that 90% of users report higher satisfaction and productivity after upgrading to Windows 11 Pro.

Microsoft

Strategic partnerships for a seamless transition

Recognising the complexities involved in such a substantial technology migration, Microsoft, alongside key partners Dell, HP, Lenovo, Datacom, and Data3, are fully committed to supporting organisations in Australia and New Zealand with their transition to Windows 11.

These industry leaders bring together a wealth of expertise, ensuring organisations receive tailored guidance and efficient deployment solutions. They are also equipped to assess current IT environments, address hardware compatibility concerns, and manage the entire migration process, significantly reducing disruption and mitigating risk.

Future-proofing your organisation

“Each time a well-loved Microsoft operating system reaches its end of life, we see resistance to change. Delaying this transition not only jeopardises security, it also impedes operational efficiency and innovation capabilities,” concludes Bright.

By proactively transitioning now, organisations can secure their digital infrastructure, ensure regulatory compliance, and empower their teams with the tools needed to remain agile and competitive.PostBlock