According to estimates from Statcounter, about 47% of all Windows computers in the Netherlands run on Windows 10. If this applies to you(your) (organization), the Digital Trust Center advises taking action. Read why and what you can do.
No new (security) updates
If a manufacturer no longer supports a particular product, the term End-of-Life (EoL) is used. Continuing to use an operating system that is no longer supported means that new vulnerabilities or other errors in the software will not be resolved. Your computer still works, but you will no longer receive new (security) updates. This means that a new security vulnerability in Windows 10 could provide an entry point for cybercriminals to intrude. This can lead to data loss, extortion, and other damage. Additionally, using an unprotected operating system may pose a risk to other systems within or outside your organization.
How do you know if you are using Windows 10?
The quickest way to find out which version of Windows you are using is via the keyboard. Press the Windows key + R. Type 'winver' in the window and then press Enter. This will open a window with the details of your Windows version. Another route is through the Windows Start menu to "Settings". By clicking on "System", you will find "About" at the bottom of the expanded menu with more information about the Windows version.
Advice for Windows 10 users
Upgrade to Windows 11
- If you have computers running Windows 10 within your company, Microsoft recommends switching to Windows 11. If your PC meets the technical requirements, this upgrade is available for free.
- To check if you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free, follow this route: Start menu > Settings > Security and Update > Windows Update. See if there is a notification that you can upgrade to Windows 11. If this notification is not there, you cannot upgrade anymore. Your device must be running Windows 10 version 2004 or higher to upgrade via Windows Update.
- It is important to check whether the hardware or other software applications you use can work with Windows 11.
Alternative measures
- If there is no possibility to move away from Windows 10, make sure to take alternative measures before October 14, 2025. The following (temporary) measures can be taken:
- Implement segmentation in your network so that you can separate the Windows systems that are no longer supported from your other systems or applications. Additionally, limit internet access for these systems as much as possible.
- Some antivirus software continues to support operating systems that are End-of-Life. Therefore, try to ensure that you are using antivirus software that still supports Windows 10.
- Microsoft offers the option to receive critical or important security updates for up to 3 years after the mentioned End-of-Life date for a fee. This program is known as Extended Security Updates (ESU). This is purchased per device. Microsoft communicates this program as a 'last resort' and does not provide a long-term solution.
- Consider an alternative operating system.
Need help? Engage external expertise with 50% subsidy
Not sure what to do? Or do you lack the knowledge and experience to take appropriate measures? Then contact an IT service provider or supplier. Since there is currently a subsidy available for small businesses, you can temporarily receive 50% of the costs reimbursed by the Digital Trust Center. Not for upgrading Windows 10, but for a significant number of other measures to increase your digital resilience. Read more about the conditions of My Cyber Resilient Business.
