The End of Windows 10 – If you’re still using Windows 10, it’s time to start thinking ahead. Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 on 14th October 2025.
From that date onwards, there’ll be no more security updates, no more bug fixes, and no official Microsoft support. If that doesn’t sound like a big deal, consider this: a lack of updates means your system could become a goldmine for cybercriminals, putting your data, business, and personal information at serious risk.
So, what does this really mean for you? Why is Microsoft making this change? And, most importantly, what should you do next? Let’s break it all down.
The End of Windows 10 – Why Is Windows 10 Being Phased Out?
Every version of Windows has a lifespan, and Windows 10 is no exception. Microsoft follows a fixed lifecycle policy, meaning that after a set number of years, support ends to make way for newer, more advanced technology.
Windows 10 was released on 29th July 2015 and has had a good run, but technology has evolved massively over the past decade. Newer threats, smarter cyberattacks, and changing ways of working mean that Windows 11 is now the future.
Microsoft is moving forward with Windows 11 as its flagship operating system, focusing on better security, improved performance, and AI-driven features like Copilot. By retiring Windows 10, Microsoft can focus its efforts on maintaining and improving its latest operating system, rather than trying to keep an older one afloat.
What Happens After October 2025?
Once Windows 10 reaches its end-of-life (EOL) date on 14th October 2025, here’s what you can expect:
No security updates – Microsoft will stop releasing patches, leaving vulnerabilities exposed. This makes it easier for hackers to target outdated systems.
No bug fixes – If you experience issues with Windows 10 after this date, Microsoft won’t be providing any solutions.
No technical support – If you run into a problem, Microsoft won’t be able to help. Your only option will be third-party support (which can be costly and unreliable).
Incompatibility with new software – Over time, new apps and programs will be designed for Windows 11 and beyond, meaning they won’t work on Windows 10.
Increased cyber risks – Without security updates, Windows 10 users will be far more vulnerable to viruses, malware, and ransomware attacks.
Is There an Option to Keep Windows 10?
Technically, yes – but it’s not recommended.
Microsoft is offering a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) programme for businesses that absolutely must continue using Windows 10 beyond the EOL date. However, this only provides security updates, not bug fixes or feature improvements. And it won’t be free.
In most cases, sticking with an unsupported OS is a huge risk. Businesses in particular need to be careful – continuing to use an outdated system could result in non-compliance with industry regulations, especially in sectors that handle sensitive customer data.
The End of Windows 10 – Windows 10 vs Windows 11: What’s the Difference?
You might be wondering: What’s so great about Windows 11? Is it really worth upgrading? Let’s look at some key improvements:
1. Security First
Windows 11 is built with Zero Trust Security in mind. That means it has stronger defences against cyber threats right from the start, including:
TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) – Provides advanced encryption to protect your data.
Enhanced phishing protection – Alerts users if they enter credentials on unsafe sites.
Built-in ransomware protection – Helps prevent attacks before they happen.
2. AI-Powered Productivity with Copilot
One of the biggest game-changers in Windows 11 is Copilot, Microsoft’s built-in AI assistant. It can:
Summarise emails and documents in seconds.
Automate repetitive tasks, saving hours of work.
Generate reports and content based on simple prompts.
Essentially, it’s like having an AI-powered assistant built directly into your operating system.
3. Performance Boost
Windows 11 is designed to be faster and more efficient, using fewer system resources while delivering smoother performance. Whether you’re a casual user or a business running multiple applications, you’ll notice the difference in speed.
4. A Modern, User-Friendly Design
Microsoft has streamlined the interface in Windows 11, making it cleaner, more intuitive, and easier to use. Key changes include:
A centred Start menu (more Mac-like, but still familiar).
Better multitasking features like Snap Layouts.
Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Teams.
5. Better Compatibility with New Software
As time goes on, more applications and hardware will be designed specifically for Windows 11. Sticking with Windows 10 means missing out on future innovations, while Windows 11 ensures compatibility for years to come.
How Many People Still Use Windows 10?
As of early 2024, Windows 10 is still the most widely used operating system worldwide, accounting for about 68% of all Windows users. However, adoption of Windows 11 is steadily growing.
A 2023 study by StatCounter found that Windows 11 adoption increased by 9% in just six months, with businesses leading the way in upgrades.
But that still means millions of users need to make the switch before 2025 – or risk running an unsupported system.
How to Prepare for the Upgrade
The End of Windows 10 – If you’re still on Windows 10, here’s how to get ahead of the deadline:
1️⃣ Check if your PC is compatible with Windows 11 – Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to see if your device meets the system requirements.
2️⃣ Consider upgrading your hardware – If your PC isn’t Windows 11 ready, it might be time for a new device. Many businesses are now switching to Copilot-powered laptops, designed for AI-driven efficiency.
3️⃣ Back up your data – Before making any big system changes, always back up important files to OneDrive, an external hard drive, or cloud storage.
4️⃣ Speak to an IT expert – If you run a business, work with Digicomm360 to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
5️⃣ Make the switch sooner rather than later – Don’t wait until October 2025 to upgrade. The earlier you move to Windows 11, the more time you have to adjust and take advantage of its benefits.
Future-Proof Your Business Today
The countdown is on. Windows 10 will officially be retired on 14th October 2025, and businesses that don’t upgrade risk falling behind. Whether you’re a small business, a growing enterprise, or just someone who values speed, security, and efficiency, making the move to Windows 11 is the smart choice.
If you need help upgrading, choosing the right device, or understanding how Windows 11 can benefit your business, get in touch today. The future of work is here – don’t get left behind.
We’re delighted to share some exciting news – Digicomm360 has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Customer Service Bolton category at the Bolton News Business Awards 2025.
This is a huge moment for our team and a proud milestone in our journey as a Bolton-based IT and telecoms provider. To be recognised for something we care so deeply about – our customer service – means everything to us.
Recognising Bolton’s Best Customer Service!
The Bolton News Business Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of businesses across the town. These awards highlight the hard work, dedication, and innovation happening every day behind the scenes in local organisations.
Being named a finalist for Best Customer Service, Boltonis already a win in our eyes. We’re proud to be in such great company, and even more proud to represent the tech and telecoms industry in Bolton – a town that’s full of ambition and energy.
What the Nomination Means to Digicomm360
Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Being recognised in the Best Customer Service Bolton category tells us we’re doing things right – that our approach of being responsive, honest and truly helpful is making a difference.
This nomination is not just a reward for our efforts; it’s encouragement to keep raising the bar. In a fast-paced industry, where challenges are often time-critical, customer service can make or break a business. For us, it’s the backbone of every project, every support ticket and every phone call.
The Big Night: Awards Evening Details
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday, 26th September 2025, at the iconic Toughsheet Stadium, home of Bolton Wanderers. The evening promises to be a true celebration, with glitz, glamour and some of the most inspiring stories in local business.
Doors open: 6:30 pm Dinner served: 7:00 pm (Three-course meal) Host: Elaine Willcox, ITV News Correspondent and Editor Dress code: Black Tie Entertainment: To follow after the awards
Let’s celebrate Best Customer Service Bolton in style and give a well-earned spotlight to our region’s hardworking businesses.
Best Customer Service Bolton – Why Customer Service Still Matters
In our industry, tech changes constantly. However, one thing that never goes out of date is excellent customer service. We are so proud to be finalists as Best Customer Service in Bolton.
Whether it’s helping a small business set up a new cloud telephony system or supporting a large organisation through a complex IT upgrade, we treat every customer with the same level of care. We don’t just fix problems – we build relationships.
At Digicomm360, we pride ourselves on being:
Friendly and approachable
Quick to respond
Clear in our communication
Flexible to your needs
Proactive with advice
Always just a phone call away
This nomination is a reflection of the way we work – and the trust our clients place in us.
A Team Effort Worth Celebrating
This recognition wouldn’t be possible without our incredible team. Every engineer, support agent, project lead and administrator plays a part in making our customer experience the best it can be.
We’re a close-knit team who genuinely care about doing the right thing – not just ticking boxes. And that passion shines through in the feedback we receive:
“The Digicomm360 team are amazing – fast, friendly, and really know their stuff. We trust them completely.”
“If something goes wrong, they’re on it straight away. It’s like having our own in-house IT team.”
“You don’t get customer service like this anymore. They’ve looked after us for years.”
We’re proud of our people. They make Digicomm360 what it is.
Recent Award Win Highlights Our Dedication to Customers
In 2024, we were honoured to win a national industry award recognising our technical expertise and commitment to service. Judges praised Digicomm360 for building a remarkable team with deep product knowledge and an unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality service to customers. Read the full article here. Now, this award for Best Customer Service in Bolton is testimony to us as a great company.
This achievement further reinforces our place as a finalist in the Best Customer Service category and highlights our team’s consistent efforts to go above and beyond.
Bolton’s Future is Bright
As we look ahead, we’re excited about what’s to come – not just for Digicomm360, but for Bolton as a whole.
The town is full of ambitious businesses doing brilliant work, and the Bolton News Business Awards are a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on their efforts. We’re honoured to be included for Best Customer Service in Bolton.
We’re also continuing to expand our services, improve our systems and invest in the people and tech that help our clients thrive. As we grow, our commitment to top-tier customer service will remain our top priority.
Final Thoughts from Team Digicomm360
At the heart of it, this nomination is a reminder of why we do what we do – because people matter. Technology is only ever as good as the service that comes with it, and we’re proud to be showing that Bolton businesses can lead the way in combining both. Whatever happens on awards night, we’ll keep focusing on delivering solutions that make a real difference to our clients’ day-to-day lives and their long-term success.
We want to thank all our amazing clients for your continued support, loyalty and kind words. Whether you’ve worked with us for a decade or a day, you’re part of this success.
We also want to thank The Bolton News and Bolton Council for recognising local businesses and organising this brilliant event.
Whether we take home the trophy or not, we already feel like winners. Why? Because we’ve stayed true to our values – and it’s working.
Work With Us for the Best Customer Service in Bolton
Looking for an IT or telecoms partner who genuinely cares? We’re here to help.
At Digicomm360, we’re proud to support organisations that make a genuine difference in people’s lives. That’s why we’re honoured to sponsor the Lewy Body Society 20th Anniversary Celebration Dinner, taking place on Saturday, 18th April 2026 at Leigh Sports Village.
The Lewy Body Society is the UK’s only charity dedicated solely to raising awareness of Lewy body dementia (LBD). Although it’s the second most common form of age-related dementia after Alzheimer’s, it remains widely misunderstood and often misdiagnosed.
By raising awareness, funding research, and offering guidance to families and carers, the Lewy Body Society plays a crucial role in supporting those affected and educating the healthcare system.
What Is Lewy Body Dementia?
Lewy body dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, movement, thinking skills, and mood. It shares characteristics with both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease and can lead to symptoms such as hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and muscle stiffness.
Because it overlaps with other types of dementia, it’s notoriously difficult to diagnose correctly, which is why the work of the Lewy Body Society is so vital.
The Mission Behind the Lewy Body Society
Since its founding in 2006, the charity has focused on improving outcomes for people living with Lewy body dementia. They do this through:
Funding medical research
Raising public awareness
Providing educational materials
Supporting carers and families
They are also a key voice in ensuring dementia strategies at a national level include LBD, making sure no one is left behind.
Celebrating the Lewy Body Society’s 20th Anniversary
This milestone is more than just a celebration of time passed — it’s a recognition of lives touched, awareness raised, and progress made in research and care. The Lewy Body Society 20th Anniversary Celebration Dinner will bring together supporters, medical professionals, families, and local businesses to honour two decades of dedicated work.
A Night of Reflection and Celebration
The event will take place on Saturday, 18th April 2026 at the stunning Leigh Sports Village, located in the heart of the Wigan borough. Guests can look forward to:
A welcome drinks reception
A three-course dinner
Live entertainment
Moving stories from those impacted by Lewy body dementia
Raffle prizes and fundraising opportunities
It promises to be a heartfelt, uplifting evening filled with connection, celebration, and support for a worthy cause.
Why Digicomm360 Chose to Sponsor the Event
At Digicomm360, we believe in supporting the community around us – not just through technology, but through action. That’s why we’re proud to be the official drinks reception sponsor for the Lewy Body Society’s anniversary dinner.
For us, this is more than a sponsorship. It’s a meaningful way to honour the people and families living with Lewy body dementia and to support the charity that stands beside them every step of the way.
Whether through our own personal connections or hearing stories from clients, colleagues, and friends, we know how deeply dementia can affect lives. We’re proud to stand alongside the Lewy Body Society as they mark this major milestone.
How to Attend the Lewy Body Society 20th Anniversary Dinner
If you want to be part of this special evening, we warmly encourage you to book your tickets and join us. Every person attending helps raise awareness and funding for the vital work the charity does.
You can purchase individual tickets or book a table for your team, organisation, or group of friends. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show your support while enjoying an unforgettable night.
Want to Sponsor or Support Further?
There are still opportunities available for organisations looking to get involved through sponsorship, raffle prizes, or donations. It’s a brilliant way to give back while showing your brand’s commitment to community support and awareness.
To find out more, contact the wonderful Sue France at 07876 226127 or email [email protected] for details.
Join Us in Supporting a Meaningful Cause
Events like the Lewy Body Society 20th Anniversary Celebration Dinner are more than just a night out. They are a chance to come together as a community, reflect on progress, and recommit to making a difference.
At Digicomm360, we’re proud to use our platform to amplify the work of charities doing truly important work, and this is one that means a lot to us. Whether you’re a business owner, carer, or someone affected by dementia, your presence and support make a difference.
Please join us in helping the Lewy Body Society continue its mission to improve lives, one step at a time. Together, we can ensure more people are diagnosed earlier, supported better, and given the hope they deserve.
We’ll be there on the night – and we hope you will be too.
At Digicomm360, we’ve always believed in the power of community. While technology, connectivity and security are what we deliver as a business, relationships are what drive us. It’s those real, human connections – the ones built over a coffee, a conversation, or a shared local goal – that create long-term success. Professionals of Wigan Digicomm360 Networking provide that powerful community connection.
That’s exactly why we’re proud members of Professionals of Wigan (POW), a vibrant and supportive business network that connects people across the Wigan borough and beyond. POW isn’t your typical networking group. It’s down-to-earth, collaborative, and focused on meaningful partnerships rather than elevator pitches. It brings together business owners, freelancers, professionals, and community leaders who genuinely want to see each other thrive.
So, what is the Professionals of Wigan Digicomm360 Networking all about, and why does it matter to us?
Professionals of Wigan is a business networking group designed to connect professionals in Wigan and the surrounding area. It exists to help businesses grow, share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and support local initiatives. The group hosts regular meetups, sponsors events like the Wigan Borough Business Awards, and plays an active role in promoting the success of local enterprises.
What makes it special is the atmosphere. There’s no pressure to perform or pitch. Instead, it’s a relaxed, welcoming space where people can turn up as themselves, learn from others, and create valuable connections over time. Whether you’re just starting out or running a well-established firm, everyone is treated equally and with respect. It’s inclusive, friendly, and genuinely useful.
Our introduction to POW came through a recommendation
One of those “you’ll love this group” conversations that turned out to be absolutely right. From our very first event, we felt at home. The energy was positive, the people were approachable, and it was clear that this was a group focused on action, not just talk.
Since joining, we’ve had the chance to attend a number of brilliant events – from informal get-togethers to high-profile celebrations like the Wigan Borough Business Awards. Each event is a reminder of just how much talent and drive exist in our local area. Wigan businesses are full of creativity, resilience and innovation – and POW helps to shine a light on all of it.
Being part of POW has delivered huge value to us as a business. We’ve developed strong partnerships, collaborated on exciting projects, and gained valuable referrals. More importantly, we’ve built relationships with people we trust and respect. There’s a real sense of camaraderie within the group. It’s not about what you can take, but what you can give – and that’s what makes it so powerful.
Connecting Businesses that might otherwise not meet
One of the biggest strengths of POW is its ability to connect businesses that might otherwise never meet. Wigan’s business landscape is diverse – from digital agencies and accountants to tradespeople, consultants and retailers. POW creates a central meeting point where all of these industries intersect, opening doors to conversations that lead to real outcomes.
Another key feature of the group is its community spirit. POW isn’t just about business for business’s sake – it’s about supporting the wider Wigan community. Whether it’s sponsoring a local fundraiser, raising awareness for a local cause, or mentoring someone just starting out, members of POW are passionate about making a difference.
A great example of this is the Wigan Borough Business Awards. This flagship event is run in partnership with POW and gives local businesses the recognition they deserve. From micro-businesses and charities to large employers and young entrepreneurs, the awards celebrate excellence in all forms. Digicomm360 is proud to be a sponsor of the 2025 event, and our involvement was inspired by our connection to POW and the shared values we’ve found within the group.
We’ve also seen first-hand how much effort goes on behind the scenes.
Groups like POW don’t run themselves – they’re powered by people who truly care. A special mention must go to Sue France, whose tireless work and positive energy have helped make POW what it is today. Her passion for supporting local businesses and creating meaningful opportunities is a big part of why the group continues to grow.
Professionals of Wigan also create a space for learning. As a tech company, we’re always keen to keep up with what’s happening across different industries. By speaking to other professionals, attending talks, and getting involved in discussions, we’ve picked up new ideas, shared our own experiences, and stayed better connected to the pulse of the local economy.
For businesses considering joining a networking group, we’d wholeheartedly recommend Professionals of Wigan. It’s not about being the loudest in the room or having the biggest turnover. It’s about turning up, being open, and finding common ground with others who care about doing good business in a great town.
Professionals of Wigan Digicomm360 Networking
Networking can sometimes feel transactional, but with POW, it’s personal. People remember your name, ask how you’re doing, and want to help you grow. That kind of genuine support is hard to come by, and we’re lucky to have found it here.
As we look ahead to the rest of the year and beyond, we’re excited about continuing our involvement in POW. We’re looking forward to more conversations, more collaboration, and more opportunities to play our part in Wigan’s business story.
We’ll be attending events, supporting fellow members, and encouraging other businesses in our network to check it out too. Whether you’re a start-up, a growing business, or a solo professional looking to connect, Professionals of Wigan is well worth exploring.
Professionals of Wigan Digicomm360 Networking
To find out more about POW or get involved, you can reach out to any member (including us!) or follow the group on LinkedIn for updates on events and opportunities. https://www.professionalsof.co.uk/
At Digicomm360, we’ll continue to support our clients with reliable IT, telecoms, and cybersecurity – but more than that, we’ll keep showing up for our community, sharing knowledge, and helping to build a stronger, more connected local economy.
Because when we lift each other up, we all move forward...
At Digicomm360, we’ve always believed that supporting local businesses is about more than just good intentions – it’s about taking action, showing up, and celebrating the success stories that power our local economy. We attended the Wigan Business Awards Sponsors Lunch 2025 and here’s why.
That’s why we’re incredibly proud to be an official sponsor of the 2025 Wigan Borough Business Awards, a prestigious event that recognises and celebrates the outstanding achievements of businesses across the borough.
Last week, we had the pleasure of attending the Wigan Borough Business Awards Sponsors’ Lunch – and what an afternoon it was! Hosted in the lead-up to the main event, the lunch brought together fellow sponsors, organisers, and local leaders to network, collaborate, and discuss plans for what promises to be a fantastic evening of recognition and celebration.
Wigan Business Awards Sponsors – Why These Awards Matter
The Wigan Borough Business Awards aren’t just about shiny trophies and press photos – they’re about shining a spotlight on real businesses doing remarkable things. From start-ups taking their first steps to established companies pushing boundaries in innovation, customer service, and sustainability, these awards are a platform for the people behind the brands.
In a time when many businesses have had to adapt, pivot, or rebuild, celebrating resilience and growth has never been more important. The awards are an opportunity to say “well done,” to share stories, and to inspire others, especially in areas like Wigan, where community, grit, and heart are the foundation of so many ventures.
As a Bolton-based company ourselves, just a stone’s throw from Wigan, we understand the value of local networks, local support, and local pride. Our clients span Greater Manchester and beyond, but many of our most meaningful partnerships are right here in the North West.
Wigan Business Awards Sponsors Lunch 2025
The Sponsors’ Lunch was a perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded businesses and discuss how we can all help elevate the event – and the brilliant businesses it represents.
Held at a fantastic venue (with some very welcome refreshments!), the lunch offered a warm, relaxed setting where conversation flowed easily. We heard from the event organisers – including POW (Professionals of Wigan) and Fubhub – about the plans for the main awards night and how each sponsor plays a role in making it a success.
It was clear from every conversation that this year’s event isn’t just about returning post-pandemic – it’s about raising the bar. The focus is on making this the biggest and best awards night yet, and we’re excited to be a part of it.
Why We Chose to Sponsor
Digicomm360 is a business built on partnerships, and our involvement in the Wigan Borough Business Awards is a natural extension of what we value: connection, collaboration, and community impact.
Sponsoring these awards allows us to:
Champion the local business community – Wigan is home to a huge range of innovative, hardworking businesses, and it’s a privilege to help recognise their contributions.
Build lasting relationships – The awards bring together people who share a drive for excellence. It’s a great place to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing ones.
Give back – We’ve benefited from strong local support as we’ve grown. Supporting events like this is our way of saying thank you and investing back into the region.
As technology and telecoms specialists, we understand the pressures modern businesses face – from staying connected and secure to managing teams and customers effectively. That’s why we’re passionate about helping businesses grow, not just through our services, but through meaningful support like this.
A Celebration of Resilience and Innovation
Over the past few years, we’ve seen just how adaptable and inventive Wigan’s businesses are. Whether it’s embracing digital transformation, pivoting during tough times, or finding new ways to engage customers, there’s no shortage of success stories worth sharing.
The Wigan Borough Business Awards are a celebration of that spirit. Categories cover everything from Start-Up of the Year and Customer Service Excellence to Sustainability and Innovation, ensuring that all kinds of achievements are recognised.
We’re especially looking forward to seeing how smaller businesses and first-time nominees fare – sometimes the quietest businesses are the ones making the biggest waves.
Wigan Business Awards Sponsors – A Night to Remember
The main event promises to be a highlight of the Wigan business calendar. It’s not just a celebration – it’s an evening of connection, fun, and well-earned recognition. With a fantastic venue, professional hosting, and top-tier entertainment lined up, we know it’s going to be a night to remember for everyone involved.
We’ll be there in full support – and we’re encouraging all our clients, contacts, and local connections to attend, nominate, or even apply for an award themselves.
Gratitude and Recognition
A big thank you to POW, Fubhub, and the other event sponsors for their hard work in bringing this initiative to life. Organising an event of this scale isn’t easy – it takes vision, effort, and a deep commitment to the local community. We’re thrilled to play our part and look forward to working together to make this year’s awards a huge success.
We also want to give a shout-out to some of the amazing sponsors we met at the lunch, including:
The Heaton Group
Cotton Works
Sue France Consultancy
ATTAIN Digital
And many more passionate Wigan-based businesses are working behind the scenes to make this celebration happen.
Join Us in Supporting Local
If you’re a local business, supplier, customer or community group, we encourage you to get involved. Whether you attend, nominate someone, or just help spread the word, your support helps keep our region’s business ecosystem strong and thriving.
