If your business in Kankakee County or the surrounding area is still running on Windows 10, it’s time for a serious conversation.
On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 — meaning no more security updates, bug fixes, or technical support.
But here’s what many local business owners overlook:
The cost of waiting isn’t just about having to upgrade eventually — it’s about the daily risk and hidden expenses you're already incurring.
“We’ll Deal With It Later” Is an Expensive Mindset
We understand that replacing or upgrading equipment isn’t something most business owners in Bourbonnais, Bradley, or Manteno are excited to budget for. But putting it off can lead to preventable (and costly) problems.
Here’s what procrastination is really costing businesses in our community:
- Your Business Is Losing Its Safety Net
Without Microsoft updates, every new vulnerability becomes your responsibility.
Cybercriminals target outdated systems — and once support ends, Windows 10 becomes a playground for hackers. Imagine leaving your front door locked but all the windows wide open.
Just one successful cyberattack could cost tens of thousands — or worse, put your reputation and business at risk.
- You’ll Start Running Into Compatibility Problems
As more software vendors pull support for Windows 10, your essential business tools might suddenly stop working — during a client presentation or payroll run.
We’ve already seen businesses in Peotone, Momence, and Watseka experience:
- CRMs that stop syncing
- Accounting software that malfunctions
- Printers and security tools that no longer connect
Delays can mean lost time, frustrated customers, and damaged credibility.
- Outdated Systems Kill Productivity
Slow computers and frequent crashes chip away at your team’s efficiency.
If every employee loses just 15 minutes per day to tech issues, you’re looking at dozens of wasted hours every month — hours that could’ve gone into growth, sales, or service.
- Emergency Upgrades = Bigger Bills
Waiting until a system fails forces you into panic mode:
- Rushed hardware orders
- Expensive overnight labor from IT teams
- Lost time while systems are down
We see it time and again in small businesses around Kankakee County — a little planning now avoids a lot of scrambling (and overspending) later.
- You Could Be Out of Compliance
If you handle sensitive information or fall under regulatory requirements like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or CMMC, using unsupported software can result in fines, failed audits, or legal trouble.
Don’t wait until a regulator or auditor points it out — by then, it’s too late.
What Smart Kankakee-Area Businesses Are Doing Right Now
Forward-thinking business owners across Kankakee County and neighboring communities aren’t just upgrading — they’re using this transition to:
- Evaluate which machines should be replaced
- Streamline apps and eliminate outdated tools
- Tighten cybersecurity protections
- Create a long-term tech budget for 2025 and beyond
How to Make the Transition Smooth
We recommend the following steps for a seamless, stress-free upgrade:
✅ Run a compatibility check – Not all systems can support Windows 11. Know which ones to keep and which to replace.
✅ Audit your software – Make sure your critical business tools are Windows 11–ready.
✅ Plan your hardware budget now – Avoid delays from supply chain issues later.
✅ Work with a trusted local IT partner – We’ll handle everything: no downtime, no confusion, and no surprise costs.
Don’t Wait Until October to Panic
Delaying your upgrade may feel easy now, but the consequences — from cyberattacks to surprise expenses — can hit hard and fast.
At Advanced Computer Specialists, we’re helping businesses across Kankakee County move to Windows 11 the smart way: strategically, affordably, and without disruption.
📞 Want peace of mind before the deadline?
Free Network Assessment | Advanced Computer Specialists, Inc.– we’ll help you identify which systems need upgrading, what can stay, and how to future-proof your business tech before time runs out.
