Last updated: 7 November 2026
It keeps working but stops receiving security patches, bug fixes and technical support. Attackers target known unpatched flaws quickly, so the risk of a breach rises every month. Unsupported software can also fail Cyber Essentials and may affect your cyber insurance.
The cost of waiting
Security
No patches for new vulnerabilities, so known flaws stay open.
Compliance
Cyber Essentials requires supported software. Unsupported items fail the assessment.
Insurance
Insurers may decline claims or raise premiums on unsupported systems.
Support
No vendor help when something breaks, and new apps stop supporting it.
What are your choices?
| Choice | Cost | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade | Licence and time | Lowest long-term |
| Replace with a cloud service | Subscription | Low |
| Pay for Extended Security Updates | Rising yearly | Medium, time-limited |
| Isolate it from the network | Engineering time | Medium |
| Carry on regardless | Free today | High |
How ABCOM helps
We find unsupported software across your estate and plan upgrades by risk. See the current dates in our Microsoft end of life guide and the risks of unsupported software.
Find out what is out of date in your business with a free Microsoft Health Check.
Related answers and guides
- Microsoft End of Life Dates 2027
- Risks of unsupported software
- Which Microsoft products reach end of life in 2027?
- Free Microsoft Health Check
- All ABCOM FAQs
Sources and further reading
Related questions
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