You can invest in firewalls, endpoint protection and cyber security training, but if you’re regularly clicking “Remind me later”, you’re not just delaying an update, you’re delaying the security fixes designed to protect your business from the latest threats. This creates an opportunity for attackers as cybercriminals actively target known vulnerabilities, making outdated devices one of the easiest ways into a business network.
One delayed update can leave a lasting security gap
We all know that running out-of-support software is one of the easiest ways to open your business up to cyber attacks. Without patches and updates, your network is vulnerable to malicious activity. But there’s more than one reason you shouldn’t leave your devices outdated:
- Higher cyber risk: Unsupported software leaves known vulnerabilities open to attack.
- Compliance concerns: Older systems can create challenges for audits, regulations and cyber insurance requirements.
- Lower productivity: Performance and compatibility issues can slow employees down.
- Increased costs: Legacy systems often cost more to maintain than modern alternatives.
- Business disruption: System failures and downtime become more likely as software ages.
But I’m running Window 11 already…
Don’t fall into the trap of treating Windows updates as a one-off project. Moving to Windows 11 is important, but ongoing security updates are what keep your devices protected long after the upgrade is complete.
Every month, Microsoft releases security fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities. Devices running older or unsupported versions can miss these protections, making them more attractive targets for cybercriminals. Keeping Windows 11 up to date helps ensure your business benefits from the latest security updates, support lifecycle and built-in protections.
Every time you click “Remind me later”, you’re delaying more than an update. You could be delaying a critical security fix.
Still on Windows 10? An unsupported Windows 10 device can become the weak link in an otherwise secure environment. There’s little value in investing in firewalls, endpoint protection and security awareness training if outdated devices are still providing attackers with a potential way in. In a handful of specialist scenarios, a Windows 10 device may remain in use, but only where the risks are understood and carefully managed.
