The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has issued an urgent advisory, encouraging organizations to upgrade to Windows 11 before Windows 10 reaches end-of-life on October 14, 2025.
This call to action reflects increasing concern about the security risks tied to outdated operating systems, especially as cybercriminals continue to target aging infrastructure for exploitation.
Unsupported systems present significant security threats. Past incidents, such as the 2017 WannaCry ransomware outbreak, serve as clear warnings. That attack took advantage of vulnerabilities in unpatched Windows XP systems, leading to global disruption and substantial financial damage.
After support for Windows XP ended, Internet Explorer also became a frequent target due to unpatched flaws, showing the dangers of systems left unprotected once they are no longer supported.
NCSC researchers note that the situation with Windows 10 is similar to what happened with Internet Explorer. Once support ends, it becomes a tempting target for attackers.
Despite its familiar interface, Windows 10 is nearly a decade old, and it will face increasing security challenges once updates and patches are no longer provided. NCSC warns that the system will not be able to withstand modern threats once it transitions to legacy status.
Windows 11, by contrast, offers stronger built-in protection, made possible through specific hardware requirements. These include TPM 2.0, UEFI firmware, and Secure Boot. Together, they support advanced security tools such as Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), Secure Launch, and improved Credential Guard.
TPM 2.0 plays a key role by allowing cryptographic keys to be stored securely in hardware, helping prevent malware from establishing persistence.
Devices without this hardware are considered significantly more vulnerable, according to NCSC.
Windows 11 also supports passwordless login methods through improved passkey support and Windows Hello, which help eliminate common risks tied to stolen credentials.
These advancements make upgrading to Windows 11 more than just a recommendation. They are essential for maintaining strong defenses against evolving cyber threats and ensuring organizational resilience.
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