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The Clock Is Ticking: Preparing Your Business For Windows 10 End-of-Life

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

The end of official support for Windows 10 is approaching rapidly, with Microsoft setting the sunset date for October 14, 2025. While that may seem distant, the implications for small and mid-sized businesses are immediate. This change is not simply a routine software update: It is a critical juncture that requires deliberate planning and action.

Understanding the business risk

Once Windows 10 reaches its end of life, Microsoft will stop issuing security patches, system updates, and technical support. This places any business still using the operating system at heightened risk for cyberattacks, compliance violations, and operational disruptions.

For businesses operating in regulated industries – such as healthcare, financial services, legal, or manufacturing – these risks carry significant weight. Running unsupported systems could jeopardize compliance with frameworks like HIPAA, FINRA, and CMMC. It may also raise red flags during cybersecurity insurance reviews and increase premiums or deny claims following a breach.

In addition to security concerns, unsupported operating systems can create incompatibility with newer software, degrade performance, and reduce the reliability of day-to-day operations. The cost of unplanned downtime or data loss often exceeds the investment required to modernize outdated infrastructure.

Windows 11: The next step – with caveats

Upgrading to Windows 11 is the natural path forward. However, Windows 11 is not simply a cosmetic update. It introduces stricter hardware requirements that may render many current business machines ineligible for upgrade.

The minimum system requirements for Windows 11 include:

  • A compatible 64-bit processor (Intel 8th Gen or AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer)
  • 4 GB RAM (8 GB or more recommended)
  • 64 GB of storage
  • UEFI firmware with Secure Boot
  • TPM version 2.0
  • DirectX 12-compatible graphics with WDDM 2.0 driver

These requirements are significant, especially for businesses with aging fleets of desktops and laptops. According to recent industry estimates, nearly 40% of business PCs currently in use do not meet the minimum standard for Windows 11. This means replacement, not just an upgrade, may be necessary.

Why planning needs to start now

Delaying planning can lead to rushed purchases, limited hardware availability, and unnecessary business interruptions. Instead, organizations should begin with a full inventory of current systems to identify which devices are eligible for upgrade and which will require replacement.

It is advisable to phase replacements over time to manage costs and avoid overwhelming staff with abrupt changes. Partnering with a trusted IT service provider can ensure the transition is managed efficiently, minimizing downtime and disruptions.

Early planning also provides an opportunity to align new hardware investments with long-term IT strategies, including cloud integration, mobility, and security enhancements.

Looking ahead

Technology lifecycles should never be left to chance. The Windows 10 end-of-life deadline is more than a date – it is a call to evaluate the state of IT readiness across the organization.

Businesses that take proactive steps now will avoid reactive scrambles later, preserving both security and continuity.

The Real Cost Of A Security Breach (It’s Not Just About The Money)

We hear about security breaches all the time. But it’s easy to think, “That won’t happen to us.”

Unfortunately, the truth is… it could.

And if it does, the costs to your business go far beyond fixing a few systems or paying a fine.

Cyberattacks have become more frequent, more sophisticated, and more damaging.

As more businesses move their data online, rely on cloud services, and encourage remote work, their networks become easier to target.

And attackers know it.

When a business suffers a breach (where someone gains unauthorized access to your data), the immediate impact might include lost revenue, a damaged reputation, or a big regulatory penalty.

But the real damage often appears over time.

Take this in: The average cost of a serious security breach is now estimated at nearly $600 million. That includes everything from fixing systems, legal fees, lost business, and customer support. It’s a huge jump from just a year ago, and it shows no signs of slowing down.

But it doesn’t stop at finances.

Businesses that are breached often see a drop in customer trust. People may take their business elsewhere, unsure if their data is safe. In some cases, the business’s value drops as investors lose confidence. Even applying for funding or planning future growth becomes harder.

It gets worse in sectors like healthcare or finance, where a breach can delay operations, expose personal records, and cause real harm to people. That kind of disruption can ripple far beyond just the business itself.

The bad news is: Cyberthreats aren’t going away.

The good news?

There’s a lot you can do to reduce the risk. A strong security setup, smart employee training, and a plan for how to respond to an attack can make all the difference.

If you’re not sure how protected your business is, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Let us help, starting with a security audit. Get in touch.

How To Automate Daily Tasks And Free Up Your Time

Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats. These hats go from managing operations, handling customer inquiries, to keeping everything running smoothly. There’s a solution that can lighten the load: AI-powered automation. Thanks to technological advancements, these tools have become more accessible and cost-effective than ever, allowing small businessowners to automate tasks they previously had to handle manually.

Here are some smart ways to automate daily tasks and free up your time.

Automate customer support without losing the personal touch

Use AI Chatbots for First-Line Support. AI-powered chatbots, like Tidio or Chatfuel, can handle frequently asked questions, schedule appointments, and collect customer information automatically.

Smart Email Assistants. AI tools like Zendesk AI or Freshdesk can read incoming emails, categorize them, and even suggest replies. Some go a step further and can automate responses.

AI-Enhanced Customer Feedback. AI tools like Survicate or Qualaroo can analyze customer feedback in real-time, spotting trends and highlighting areas for improvement automatically so you can act faster.

Streamline scheduling and calendar management

Let AI Handle Your Calendar. AI-powered tools like Calendly and Reclaim.ai can automatically suggest meeting times, taking into account everyone’s availability, time zones, and preferences.

AI-Powered Appointment Booking. If you offer services or consultations, tools like Acuity Scheduling let clients book appointments directly from your calendar.

Optimized Time Allocation. AI tools like TimeHero or Trello use data and patterns from your calendar to suggest the most efficient way to allocate your time for various tasks.

Supercharge your marketing without hiring an agency

Create Content with AI Writing Tools. AI writing tools like Jasper AI, Copy.ai, and ChatGPT can generate blog posts, social media content, and email campaigns quickly and efficiently.

Automate Social Media Posts. Social media management platforms like Buffer or Later use AI to suggest the best times for posting, automatically queue content, and even generate hashtags.

AI-Driven Analytics for Better Decision-Making. AI tools like Google Analytics and HubSpot can analyze the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns in real-time, providing insights into what’s working.

Financial tasks made easier

Use AI Accounting Tools. Tools like QuickBooks Online and Xero automate tasks such as categorizing expenses, reconciling accounts, and generating reports.

Automate Invoice Generation and Payment Reminders. Tools like Wave and Zoho Books let you generate invoices automatically and send payment reminders.

Financial Forecasting with AI Insights. Tools like Fathom or Float forecast revenue, track expenses, and aid data-driven financial decisions.

Internal team collaboration & workflow automation

Automate Repetitive Team Tasks. Tools like Zapier and Make.com connect your apps and automate workflows.

AI Note-Taking & Meeting Summaries. Tools like Otter.ai and Fireflies.ai transcribe meetings and generate notes automatically.

Streamlined Project Management. Tools like Asana or Monday.com help you assign tasks, track deadlines, and monitor project progress.

Ready to integrate AI into your business? If you’re overwhelmed by daily tasks, consider AI-powered automation. You don’t need a massive tech budget to start.

It’s time to work smarter, not harder. Contact us at (734) 457-5000 for AI-powered solutions to streamline your day.

Why Sticking With Windows 10 Could Put Your Business At Risk

Windows 10 has been a reliable workhorse for businesses for nearly a decade, but its time is running out. Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and if your business is still relying on it after that date, you could be opening the door to serious financial, operational, and legal risks.

While it may seem easier (and cheaper) to delay an upgrade, the reality is that the cost of doing nothing can far exceed the cost of migrating to a supported system. Let’s take a look at why.

No more security updates = new threats every day

Once Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, Microsoft will stop releasing critical security updates. That means new vulnerabilities will be discovered by hackers – and left unpatched.

Cybercriminals actively look for outdated systems to exploit. It’s not a matter of if your business will be targeted – it’s a matter of when. And when that happens, you’re on your own.

A data breach or ransomware attack can bring your business to a halt, costing thousands in downtime, lost data, and recovery efforts – not to mention damage to your reputation.

Compliance risks: A lawsuit waiting to happen

If you’re in a regulated industry like healthcare, finance, legal, or government, continuing to use an unsupported operating system could put you out of compliance with major regulations like:

  • HIPAA (Healthcare)
  • PCI-DSS (Payment Processing)
  • GDPR (General Data Protection)
  • GLBA (Finance and Banking)

Many of these frameworks require the use of supported, up-to-date software to ensure sensitive information is protected. If you suffer a breach while running Windows 10 after support ends, you could face hefty fines and legal action for failing to maintain compliance.

Real-world risks: Lessons from the past

We’ve seen this story before. When Windows 7 went end-of-life in 2020, many businesses chose to wait. A Michigan medical practice that delayed upgrading was later hit with a ransomware attack that exposed patient records. The practice was fined $150,000 for HIPAA violations – and spent months rebuilding systems and trust.

Outdated systems don’t just make headlines – they make victims.

Total cost of ownership: It’s more expensive than you think

At first glance, keeping old systems may seem cost-effective. But when you factor in the hidden costs – security breaches, downtime, lost productivity, non-compliance fines, and expensive emergency IT support – the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) for unsupported systems skyrockets.
Modern systems are faster, more secure, and easier to manage.

Over time, they reduce your risk and lower your maintenance costs, making them a smarter investment.

Hidden productivity drain

Old systems don’t just create risk – they slow your team down. Unsupported systems often struggle with performance, compatibility, and reliability.

That translates into lost time, frustration, and inefficiency, especially when employees can’t access the tools or software they need.

If your team is spending 15-30 minutes a day dealing with tech issues, multiply that by every employee, every day. Over a year, it adds up to a massive loss in productivity – and profit.

It’s time to plan ahead

Upgrading from Windows 10 isn’t just a technical decision – it’s a business decision.

Whether you’re a five-person law firm, a small medical office, or a local manufacturing shop, staying on Windows 10 past its end-of-life is a gamble that could cost you far more than an upgrade.

At Tech Experts, we help small businesses like yours plan secure, cost-effective transitions to modern systems – without disruption.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to protect your business, stay compliant, and keep moving forward.

AI Is Already in Your Business – Did You Notice?

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

Whether you realize it or not, artificial intelligence is already part of how your business runs.

That email feature that predicts what you’re about to type?

The chatbot that handles customer questions after hours?

The software that flags invoices or suggests what to reorder?

That’s all AI.

It’s slipped into our everyday tools – quietly, efficiently, and without much fanfare. Which is exactly why you need to stop and take a closer look.

AI can save time, cut costs, and even help you grow. But it also comes with risks if you’re not keeping an eye on how it’s being used.

Let’s be clear: this isn’t about becoming a tech company. It’s about protecting your business.

Here’s what’s at stake:

If you’re using AI – powered tools to make decisions – hiring, pricing, marketing – you need to know how those decisions are made. AI isn’t magic. It’s built by humans, and sometimes it gets things wrong. It can carry bias. It can make bad calls. And if it does, you’re still the one responsible.

That means someone in your business needs to be accountable. Not to micromanage every tool, but to check the work. AI should support your team, not replace their judgment.

Another big concern: data.

AI tools often need data to learn and work well. But how that data is handled matters – a lot. Are you sharing sensitive client info with third – party tools? Do your employees know what’s safe to upload and what’s not? A careless mistake could cost you a client… or worse, lead to a breach.

So, what can you do without hiring a full – time tech guru?

Start with a simple policy.

Write down what tools you’re using that involve AI – whether it’s something as small as a Gmail add – on or a full – blown business platform. Be clear about what’s okay to use, what needs approval, and how data should be treated.

Then train your team.

They don’t need to become programmers – but they do need to know the basics. What AI is. What it can do. What it can’t. And when to raise a red flag.

You don’t need to be scared of AI. But you do need to be smart about how it is being used.

Used right, it can give you a real advantage over your competitors. Used carelessly, it can create a mess that’s hard to clean up.

We help businesses like yours use AI responsibly – without getting lost in the weeds. If you want help setting up clear guidelines or choosing tools that make sense for your team, we’re ready when you are.

Let’s make AI work for you – not against you. Give us a call at (734) 457 – 5000.

Ransomware: Why Paying Up Could Destroy Your Business

Picture this: You sit down at your desk, fire up your computer, and something’s off. Nothing works.

Your files are encrypted. Your systems are frozen. And staring you in the face is a message demanding thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency to get your data back.

It’s not a movie plot. It’s ransomware. And it’s hitting small businesses like yours more often than ever.

The gut reaction? Pay the ransom and make it go away.

But that’s exactly what the criminals are counting on.

Here’s the truth they don’t tell you: Paying the ransom rarely ends the nightmare.

Even if you pay, there’s no guarantee you’ll get your data back. In many cases, the criminals either don’t unlock everything – or they do, but your data is corrupted or incomplete.

Worse, some businesses pay the ransom only to be hit again a few months later by the same attackers.

Why? Because paying once paints a target on your back.

And it’s not just your files at risk anymore. Modern ransomware doesn’t just lock your data – it steals it.

Attackers threaten to leak sensitive information unless you cough up more cash. Financial records. Client files. Employee info. It all becomes leverage. And if you don’t pay? They publish it online.

Backups? They thought of that, too. Many ransomware variants are designed to find and destroy backup systems before you even realize what’s happening. So even if you think you’re protected, you might not be.

Here’s another kicker: The real cost of a ransomware attack goes way beyond the ransom. Studies show that the total damage – including downtime, recovery, lost productivity, and reputation damage – can be ten times the actual demand.

That’s right. A $10,000 ransom could turn into a six – figure problem.

Now let’s talk about the long game.

Every ransom paid helps fund the next wave of attacks. The tools get better. The tactics get trickier. And the pool of targets gets bigger. Paying up doesn’t just hurt your business – it fuels the engine that drives this entire criminal enterprise.

So what’s the smart play? Don’t focus on ransom. Focus on recovery.

That means:

  • Having backups that can’t be touched by attackers.
  • Testing those backups regularly – don’t just set it and forget it.
  • Training your team to spot the red flags and respond fast.
  • Creating a disaster recovery plan that actually works when you need it.

You might not be able to stop every threat from getting in. But you can make sure a ransomware attack doesn’t take your business down with it.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can help. We build cybersecurity and recovery plans specifically for small businesses – without the jargon, the scare tactics, or the six – figure price tag.

Let’s make sure you never have to choose between paying criminals or going out of business. Reach out. We’ve got your back. Email us at info@MyTechExperts.com.

What Is A Password Spraying Attack?

Password spraying is a complex type of cyberattack that uses weak passwords to get into multiple user accounts without permission. Using the same password or a list of passwords that are often used on multiple accounts is what this method is all about. The goal is to get around common security measures like account lockouts.

Attacks that use a lot of passwords are very successful because they target the weakest link in cybersecurity: people and how they manage their passwords.

What is password spraying and how does it work?

A brute-force attack called “password spraying” tries to get into multiple accounts with the same password. Attackers can avoid account shutdown policies with this method.

Attackers often get lists of usernames from public directories or data leaks that have already happened. They then use the same passwords to try to log in to all of these accounts. Usually, the process is automated so that it can quickly try all possible pairs of username and password.

Password spraying has become popular among hackers, even those working for the government, in recent years. Because it is so easy to do and works so well to get around security measures, it is a major threat to both personal and business data security.

As cybersecurity improves, it will become more important to understand and stop password spraying.

How does password spraying differ from other cyberattacks?

Password spraying is distinct from other brute-force attacks in its approach and execution. While traditional brute-force attacks focus on trying multiple passwords against a single account, password spraying uses a single password across multiple accounts.

Understanding brute-force attacks

Brute-force attacks involve systematically trying all possible combinations of passwords to gain access to an account. These attacks are often resource- intensive and can be easily detected due to the high volume of login attempts on a single account.

Comparing credential stuffing

Credential stuffing involves using lists of stolen username and password combinations to attempt logins.

How can organizations detect and prevent password spraying?

Detecting password spraying attacks requires a proactive approach to monitoring and analysis. Organizations must implement robust security measures to identify suspicious activities early on.

Implementing Strong Password Policies. Organizations should adopt guidelines that ensure passwords are complex, lengthy, and regularly updated.

Deploying Multi-Factor Authentication. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access by requiring additional verification steps beyond just a password.

Conducting Regular Security Audits. Regular audits of authentication logs and security posture assessments can help identify vulnerabilities that could facilitate password spraying attacks.

Enhancing Login Detection. Organizations should set up detection systems for login attempts to multiple accounts from a single host over a short period. Implementing stronger lockout policies that balance security with usability is also crucial.

Incident Response Planning. This plan should include procedures for alerting users, changing passwords, and conducting thorough security audits.

Taking action against password spraying

To enhance your organization’s cybersecurity and protect against password spraying attacks, contact us today to learn how we can assist you in securing your systems against evolving cyber threats.

Windows 10 Is Retiring – Here’s What Your Business Needs to Know

October 14 is a date you don’t want to ignore. That’s the day Microsoft officially stops supporting Windows 10.

What does that mean? No more security updates. No more bug fixes. No more help when something breaks. Your computers won’t suddenly stop working – but they will become much more vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Outdated systems are hacker bait.

Cybercriminals love businesses that don’t upgrade on time. Once Microsoft pulls the plug on Windows 10 updates, any newly discovered holes in the system stay wide open. Malware, ransomware, data theft – it all becomes easier. If your business handles sensitive data or customer info, staying on Windows 10 could even land you in legal trouble.

You could pay for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) – but it’ll cost you. $61 per device the first year, doubling each year to $427 per device by year three. That’s a pricey way to avoid a real solution.

So what’s the right move?

If your computers are compatible, upgrading to Windows 11 is free. It’s more secure, faster, and better for multitasking. But not every Windows 10 machine can make the jump.

Start with a compatibility check. Download Microsoft’s free PC Health Check tool and run it on each device. If the message says the PC doesn’t meet requirements, don’t panic. Sometimes a small setting (like enabling TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot) is all that’s needed. In other cases, especially with older machines, replacement may be the only path forward.

Why upgrading now matters:

Waiting until the deadline creates a storm of problems – rushed decisions, unavailable hardware, staff confusion, downtime. Planning ahead means you can upgrade on your terms, not in a crisis.

Plus, Windows 11 brings serious benefits:

Stronger security: Built-in protections like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot block modern threats before they start.

Better multitasking: New tools like Snap Layouts make it easier to juggle emails, spreadsheets, and documents.

Built-in Microsoft Teams: Collaboration is easier with Teams integrated directly into the taskbar.

Performance boost: Windows 11 uses system resources more efficiently, meaning faster boot-ups and smoother workflows.

Here’s your quick upgrade checklist:

  • Run the PC Health Check on all business machines.
  • Back up your data – files, emails, settings – before doing anything.
  • Test your critical software and hardware for Windows 11 compatibility.
  • Schedule the upgrade during a low-impact time.
  • Train your team on what’s new to minimize disruption.
  • Have IT support lined up to help with any snags along the way.

Need help? That’s what we’re here for.

We’ll take care of the entire process – device checks, upgrade planning, installations, and post-upgrade support – so your team stays focused and your business stays secure.

Don’t wait until the deadline. Let’s get ahead of it, together.

Is Your Cloud Setup Still The Right Fit for Your Business?

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

A lot has changed in the way small businesses use technology. Ten years ago, you might have had a server humming away in a back closet and a basic email system hosted on your web provider. Today, most businesses have moved parts of their operations to the cloud – email, file storage, accounting, maybe even their phone system.

The cloud has made work more mobile, more collaborative, and in many ways, more efficient. But it’s not always as simple or secure as it seems, especially as your needs change and new risks emerge.

Recent research shows that more than 90% of businesses plan to update or rethink their cloud usage in the next two years. Interestingly, a growing number of those companies aren’t just adding more cloud – they’re also pulling some systems out of the public cloud and moving them to more secure, private, or in-house environments.

So why the shift?

Public cloud isn’t one-size-fits-all

When most people talk about “the cloud,” they’re referring to the public cloud – services like Microsoft 365, Amazon AWS, and others. These platforms are affordable, flexible, and easy to scale, which makes them a great fit for a lot of business functions.

But not every system or type of data belongs in a shared environment. Businesses that handle sensitive customer information, financial data, or medical records are realizing they may need more control and oversight than the public cloud can provide.

That’s where hybrid cloud comes in – a mix of public and private solutions that gives you the flexibility of cloud services with the added control of on-premise systems.

Is it time to reevaluate your cloud strategy?

Here are a few questions that might help you decide:

What type of data do you store? If you’re dealing with regulated, confidential, or business-critical data, a hybrid or private solution might be worth considering.

Are all your systems cloud-compatible? Some legacy software simply isn’t built for cloud environments. Rather than replace it all at once, a hybrid setup allows for a gradual, controlled transition.

How confident are you in your security measures? Regardless of where your data lives, you still need to protect it. That means strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, endpoint protection, regular security reviews, and most importantly, backups.

Many businesses set up their cloud systems years ago and haven’t looked back. But as your business grows, your tech should evolve with it – and so should your approach to risk, compliance, and performance.

We can help you build a smarter setup

At Tech Experts, we help small businesses design cloud strategies that actually fit their needs – not some generic one-size-fits-all setup. Whether that means optimizing what you already have, moving part of your systems to a more secure environment, or just getting a better understanding of where your data lives and how it’s protected, we’re here to help.

If it’s been more than a year since you’ve reviewed your cloud infrastructure – or if you’ve never had a cloud strategy at all – it’s time. Let’s make sure your technology is working for your business, not creating hidden risks behind the scenes.

Five Reasons To Be Wary Of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an incredible tool. It’s revolutionizing industries, advancing medical research, and making businesses more productive. But like any powerful technology, it can also be used for the wrong reasons – and it’s important you’re aware of it.

Cyber criminals have discovered that generative AI (the same kind of AI that powers tools like ChatGPT and Copilot) makes their scams faster, smarter, and more convincing than ever…

AI-generated malware

Malware (malicious software) isn’t new, but AI has made it quicker to produce, harder to detect, and more effective at bypassing security measures. Cyber criminals use AI to write malware that looks like legitimate browser extensions, software downloads, and even innocent-looking files like PDFs or images.

Stay safe: Keep your security software up to date and never download software or browser extensions from unknown sources.

Fooling security systems

Most cyber security software works by spotting known malware patterns. By slightly tweaking existing malware, scammers can create thousands of unique versions that security systems don’t recognize.

Stay safe: Regularly update your security software to keep up with evolving threats. AI-powered security tools can also help to detect suspicious activity.

AI-powered password cracking

Cyber criminals are now using AI to break into accounts faster than ever. AI can test millions of password combinations per second, analyze leaked passwords, and even predict passwords based on common patterns.

Stay safe: Use strong, unique passwords for every account and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security.

Smarter phishing scams

Phishing emails used to be easy to spot – bad grammar, weird phrasing, and suspicious links were all giveaways. But with AI, scammers can create perfectly written, highly personalized messages that look exactly like they came from a trusted colleague or supplier.

Stay safe: Always verify unexpected emails, especially if they request payments, login details, or sensitive information. Hover over links before clicking and double-check sender addresses.

Deepfake impersonation

Imagine getting a video call from your CEO asking you to process an urgent payment. You recognize their voice and face… but it’s not actually them. AI-generated deepfakes can clone voices and faces to trick employees into transferring money or sharing sensitive data.

Stay safe: If something seems unusual or too urgent, verify the request by calling on a known number or confirming in person.