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IT News from SNH

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Navigating the complexities of today's IT landscape can be daunting. Whether you're a small business owner grappling with data security, a medium-sized company aiming to streamline its IT infrastructure, or a large corporation looking for custom solutions, we've got you covered. Our team of highly skilled, Santa Rosa Beach-based IT professionals are always on hand to offer the best-in-class IT services that your business deserves.

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At SNH Technologies, we're more than just an IT company - we're your local IT partner. Remember, when it comes to IT consulting in Santa Rosa Beach and the Florida panhandle, think local, think SNH Technologies.

The End of Windows 10 is Here

Windows 10 is ending. Time to upgrade to Windows 11 or face the consequences.

Microsoft has officially declared October 14, 2025, as the end-of-support date for Windows 10, meaning no more security patches, bug fixes, or technical assistance for standard editions.

While Windows 10 will still run, it will increasingly expose your organization to cyber risk, compliance issues, and performance degradation.

What You’ll Face if You Delay

  • Security vulnerabilities: After support ends, any new Windows 10 flaws go unpatched—making systems prime targets for ransomware, malware, and breaches.

  • Compliance risk: Industries like finance, healthcare, and legal require supported platforms. Running Windows 10 post‑EOL can put you at risk of fines or audit failure.

  • Software and hardware incompatibility: New applications may not support Windows 10. Vendors are already prioritizing Windows 11-only builds.

  • No support for Microsoft 365/Office apps: Microsoft 365 apps will continue running after October 14, 2025, but performance and reliability may suffer—and official support ends too.

  • Escalating costs if delayed: SMB readiness is lacking—35% of SMBs either aren't aware or haven't planned their transition yet. Last-minute upgrades risk higher costs and equipment shortages.

Migration Options: Your Path Forward

  1. Upgrade to Windows 11
    Most businesses (up to 87% of enterprise PCs and 50% of consumer devices) are eligible for Windows 11. It offers enhanced security features (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot), better performance, and support extending into the 2030s.

    Dell and Intel note that nearly 80% of organizations are already migrating, with many focusing on new AI-capable PCs to unlock modern productivity gains.

  2. Extended Security Updates (ESU)
    For devices that can’t yet upgrade, Microsoft offers an ESU program providing security patches (but no new features) for up to three years—businesses pay per device (around $61 in year one, doubling in later years).

    Note: ESU is a short-term bridge—not a substitute for migrating your infrastructure.

  3. Special Case: Windows 10 LTSC
    A niche, long‑term support version of Windows 10 (LTSC 2021) receives updates until January 2032. It’s used in embedded or industrial environments but is not recommended for typical office setups.

Why Acting Early Pays Off

  • Avoid security incidents and compliance penalties

  • Prevent rushed, costly migrations under deadline pressure

  • Unlock modern productivity for your team with faster, more efficient tools

  • Leverage new hardware and AI-capable devices as part of strategic upgrade planning

How SNH Technologies Can Help

We partner with businesses to:

  • Assess your current estate and compatibility

  • Plan and execute phased migrations with minimal downtime

  • Source Windows 11-compatible hardware

  • Provide staff training and long-term support

  • Deploy ESU when needed to stretch migration windows

  • Configure modern security practices and tools

Let’s transform this deadline into an opportunity—from risk mitigation to modernization. Your IT team is here to begin your assessment and strategy today.

Russell Halewindows, cyber security, business tech