Time is up! What now?

Gary Lawrence Gary Lawrence Business Development Manager - Microsoft
Gary Lawrence

The Countdown Is Over: Navigating The Post Windows 10 Era

October 14, 2025, marked a major milestone: the official end of support for Windows 10. At Dicker Data, we didn’t just note the change, we embraced it. To recognise this pivotal moment, we hosted a dedicated channel webcast, bringing together our team and partners to reflect on the end of an era and look ahead to what’s next. Watch our team revisit key milestones that paved the way for Windows 11 and discover standout features from the new Copilot+ PCs.

With Windows 10 support officially retired, SMB customers across ANZ are looking to trusted advisors to guide their next steps. That’s where you come in – and we’re here to help.

From upgrade pathways and device refresh strategies to training and enablement Dicker Data is committed to equipping our partners with the tools, insights, and support needed to help their customers transition confidently into the Windows 11 and Copilot+ era.

Already Upgraded? What you’re gaining – more security, more performance, more success

  • Productivity. Supercharge insights and efficiency – 50% faster workflows on average.
  • Business-readiness. Easier, cost effective, and AI-ready IT – 25% faster deployment reported on average.
  • Security. Most secure, resilient Windows yet – 62% reported drop in security incidents.
  • Performance. Set the pace with faster performance – 42% faster completion of demanding workloads on average.

These upgrades aren’t just technical – they're strategic, helping businesses stay competitive and secure.

Are your customers still on Windows 10? Here’s what they're risking 

Despite the transition, 1 in 5 active commercial devices in ANZ remain on Windows 10 and are ineligible for upgrading. In the SMB segment, that number climbs to 1 in 3. These devices pose serious risks:

  • Cybersecurity vulnerabilities and potential loss of cyber insurance coverage.
  • Performance degradation and compatibility issues with Microsoft 365 apps.
  • Limited support - Microsoft 365 apps may still run, but troubleshooting will be the only assistance available.
  • Microsoft 365 is governed by the Modern Lifecycle Policy, which requires apps to run on a supported operating system. Running on Windows 10 means risking reliability, performance, and compliance.

Key points to highlight when talking to customers that haven't upgraded 

  • The Landscape Is Outdated: A significant portion of the commercial device base is still running Windows 10. These devices must be refreshed immediately to maintain security and compliance.
  • SMBs Face Greater Challenges: With 1 in 3 SMB devices ineligible to upgrade, the urgency to modernise is even more imperative.
  • Windows 11 Pro Makes It Easy: Designed to work with existing tech and applications, Windows 11 Pro ensures a smooth transition.
  • Delay Costs More: To support organisations through their transition, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) until October 10, 2028. While this provides breathing room to plan, it’s not a reason to delay, and it’s worth noting that the fee of USD$61 doubles with each consecutive year. Older devices cost more to maintain and limit productivity. Upgrading is not just a technical move, it’s a smart business decision.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're advising customers or refreshing your own infrastructure, now is the time to modernise, secure, and future-proof your environment.

Need help planning your customers transition? Reach out to our team or explore our Windows 11 Device Refresh page.

Unsure if you can refresh your customers to Windows 11? Generate a free report with our Windows 11 Assessment tool and find other helpful resources here.

Comments

Start a discussion, not a fire. Post with kindness

Comments

SUBSCRIBE

Subscribe to the Dicker Data blog

for regular updates and insights