Ilias Tsapsidis, Sales Director for ESET in the Middle East, Greece, Cyprus & Malta, highlights the growing risks as Windows 10 nears end-of-life. ESET urges users to upgrade but also recommends key interim safety measures: keep ESET software updated, enable Windows patches, use secure browsers, back up data, and avoid risky downloads to stay protected.
What are the most significant security risks for consumers who continue using Windows 10 after Microsoft ends support?
Once Microsoft ends support for Windows 10, consumers who continue using it will face escalating security risks:
- No Security Updates: Without regular patches, systems become increasingly vulnerable to newly discovered malware and exploits.
- Unpatched Vulnerabilities: Cybercriminals can easily exploit known flaws, turning unsupported devices into prime targets for attack.
- Limited Technical Support: Users will struggle to resolve security issues due to reduced access to official troubleshooting resources.
- Software Incompatibility: Newer third-party applications may not function properly, lacking critical security enhancements or updates.
- Obsolete Security Tools: Emerging cybersecurity technologies may not integrate with Windows 10, leaving users exposed to modern threats.
In short, continued use of Windows 10 after support has ended significantly increases the risk of data breaches, ransomware, and system compromise. Upgrading to a supported OS is essential for maintaining digital safety.
Will ESET continue to provide antivirus and endpoint protection updates for Windows 10 users beyond the end-of-life date?
ESET will continue to support Windows 10 users with antivirus and endpoint protection updates even after Microsoft ends official support for the operating system. We remain committed to providing real-time threat detection, regular virus definition updates, and core security features to help safeguard users during this transition period.
However, we recognise that without Microsoft’s ongoing security patches, Windows 10 systems will become increasingly vulnerable to emerging threats. While our solutions will generally remain functional on unsupported platforms, we strongly recommend upgrading to a supported operating system like Windows 11 to ensure maximum protection, compatibility with future updates, and long-term security resilience.
How long can ESET realistically maintain adequate protection on Windows 10 after support ends?
ESET can still offer a layer of protection on unsupported operating systems, but its effectiveness is inherently constrained. While ESET continues to provide real-time threat detection, virus definition updates, and core security features, it cannot address the deeper vulnerabilities that arise when an operating system no longer receives official patches from its developer. These unpatched flaws can be exploited by attackers, and no antivirus—no matter how advanced—can fully compensate for the absence of system-level security updates.
ESET may help delay or mitigate specific threats, but the overall security posture of an unsupported OS remains weak. As a result, ESET strongly recommends upgrading to a supported operating system to ensure full compatibility with its products and to maintain robust, comprehensive protection against evolving cyber risks.
What practical steps should consumers take if they cannot immediately upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
If upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 isn’t immediately feasible, consumers should take several practical steps to reduce security risks and maintain a safer computing environment. First, it’s essential to install all available Windows 10 updates and security patches before support officially ends, ensuring the system is as fortified as possible.
Next, using reputable security software, such as ESET, can help provide ongoing protection through real-time threat detection and regular virus definition updates. In addition to software defences, practising cautious online behaviour becomes even more critical—this includes avoiding suspicious websites, refraining from clicking unknown links or downloading unverified files, and being vigilant with email attachments.
To further minimise exposure, consumers should consider limiting sensitive activities, such as online banking or accessing confidential data, on an unsupported device. While these steps won’t eliminate all risks, they can offer a temporary buffer until a complete upgrade to a supported operating system becomes viable.
Does ESET recommend any specific configurations, patches, or additional tools to minimise risks on legacy systems?
ESET recommends several proactive steps to help minimise risks on legacy systems, though it emphasises that no configuration can fully secure an unsupported operating system. First and foremost, users should apply all available operating system updates before support ends, as unpatched vulnerabilities pose the greatest threat. Within ESET’s security suite, enabling features such as real-time scanning, advanced heuristics, and firewall monitoring is essential for maintaining strong protection. Regular updates to virus definitions and activating the Host-based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS) can further enhance the detection of suspicious behaviour.
Beyond ESET’s built-in tools, the company advises users to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible and to use trusted password managers and encryption tools to protect sensitive data. These additional layers of security can help mitigate exposure. Still, ESET is clear: while these measures offer temporary safeguards, upgrading to a supported operating system remains the most effective and reliable way to ensure comprehensive protection.
How can ESET help consumers protect personal data—like banking, shopping, and identity details—on older PCs?
ESET helps consumers safeguard personal data on older PCs by deploying a multi-layered approach to security, designed to reduce exposure to threats even on legacy systems. Its real-time malware detection and anti-phishing capabilities actively block malicious websites and prevent attempts to steal sensitive information such as banking credentials or shopping details. For added protection during financial transactions, ESET Internet Security includes a Secure Browser feature that creates an encrypted environment, minimising the risk of data interception.
Beyond web protection, ESET’s firewall and Host-based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS) continuously monitor for suspicious activity, helping to prevent unauthorised access to the system. Password protection tools further secure login credentials, and in select regions, ESET offers Identity Theft Protection services to provide an additional layer of defence against fraud. While these technologies offer meaningful safeguards, ESET emphasises that older PCs—especially those running unsupported operating systems—still carry inherent vulnerabilities. For optimal security, upgrading to a modern, supported platform remains the most effective long-term solution.
What advice does ESET give to budget-conscious users weighing the cost of new hardware versus extending the life of existing Windows 10 devices?
ESET encourages budget-conscious users to weigh both financial and security implications when considering whether to invest in new hardware or extend the life of existing Windows 10 devices. For those unable to upgrade immediately, we advise maximising protection by keeping security software fully updated, enabling advanced features like real-time scanning and firewall monitoring, and practising safe online habits. Regular data backups are also crucial for safeguarding against potential breaches or system failures.
However, we caution that unsupported systems become increasingly vulnerable over time, primarily when used for sensitive tasks such as online banking or shopping. While extending device life may seem cost-effective in the short term, ESET recommends planning for a hardware upgrade as a strategic investment. Modern systems not only offer stronger security and compatibility with evolving technologies, but also ensure longer-term support and performance—ultimately delivering better value and peace of mind.
