Windows 10 Nears End-of-Life — and Microsoft Just Broke Its Upgrade Tool

Just when millions of users were preparing to move on, Microsoft pulled a curveball.

Windows 10 will reach end-of-life (EOL) on October 14, 2025. Two weeks prior to this date, Microsoft confirmed that its Media Creation Tool (MCT) might close unexpectedly. This tool is one of the most common ways to create upgrade media for Windows 11. It might display no error message when it closes unexpectedly.

The company quietly listed the issue as Confirmed on October 10. In plain English, that means the very tool designed to help users upgrade… just broke at the worst possible time.

For businesses still running Windows 10, this incident is more than an inconvenience. It’s a wake-up call about planning for system lifecycle management. Businesses need a trusted IT partner to ensure upgrades happen smoothly, securely, and on schedule.

Windows 10 Nears End-Of-Life and Microsoft just broke it's Upgrade Tool

The Clock Is Ticking: Windows 10 End-of-Life Is Here

Microsoft’s own statement spells it out clearly:

“Devices running Windows 10 will no longer receive fixes for known issues, time zone updates, technical support, or monthly security updates containing protection from the latest security threats.”

Once EOL hits, those unpatched systems become prime targets for ransomware and data breaches. Compliance frameworks, like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and NIST, require supported operating systems. Therefore, staying on Windows 10 could eventually mean falling out of compliance too.

That’s why SofTouch Systems has spends a good percentage of our time helping Texas businesses develop structured upgrade paths. These are not rushed, reactionary upgrades. They are planned migrations designed to minimize downtime and eliminate hidden risks.

Because no one likes “surprises” when their operating system suddenly stops being supported.

What You Can Do Right Now

Even with Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool malfunctioning, there are still safe, verified ways to transition from Windows 10 before EOL:

  1. Use Windows Update
    • Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
    • Click Check for updates and see if the Windows 11 upgrade appears.
    • Note: Some systems won’t qualify due to CPU or TPM requirements.
  2. Download a Bootable ISO Directly from Microsoft
    • Visit Microsoft’s official ISO download page.
    • Under “Download Windows 11 Disk Image (ISO)”, choose your version and language.
    • Use a trusted USB tool (like Rufus) to create installation media — but only if you know what you’re doing.
  3. Evaluate Alternatives for Legacy Hardware
    • If your current system fails Windows 11’s minimum requirements, it may be time to modernize hardware. Alternatively, you can test lightweight Linux distributions that extend the life of older machines.

STS can help you assess compatibility. It can assist in choosing upgrade paths. STS ensures data is migrated safely. This is true whether you’re moving to Windows 11 or evaluating cloud workstations instead.

Why This Matters for Businesses

A broken upgrade tool might be frustrating, but it’s also a reminder that reactive IT is risky IT.

Businesses relying on outdated operating systems or one-click DIY tools often find themselves stuck when things go wrong. Proactive maintenance and lifecycle planning ensure that upgrades happen on your schedule, not Microsoft’s.

That’s why SofTouch Systems’ No Surprise IT approach includes:

  • Flat-rate upgrade planning for servers and workstations
  • System compatibility reports before deployment
  • Automated backups and rollback options
  • Security patch verification for all devices

We make upgrades predictable — and remove the panic moments when vendors pull the rug out days before support ends.

The SofTouch Systems Recommendation

If you’re still running Windows 10, the time to act is now.
Don’t wait for another broken update tool or a missed security patch.

Our team can help you:
Audit your current systems
Develop an upgrade roadmap
Ensure data continuity through every phase
Provide backup verification before and after migration

Get your free “End-of-Life System Check” at SofTouchSystems.com.
We’ll make sure your business stays secure and compliant — long after Windows 10 fades into history.

Cybersecurity in 2025: Texas Municipalities Under Attack—And What It Means for Local SMBs

A Wake-Up Call for Texas Municipalities

Cybersecurity remains a critical issue across the United States. The year 2025 has already reminded Texas communities of just how vulnerable we are. Matagorda County and the City of Mission both reported major service outages this year following cyberattacks targeting their online systems. Local residents faced delays in accessing public records and paying utilities. They also experienced difficulties in communicating with municipal offices. These disruptions underscore a growing national trend of data breaches and ransomware events.

These incidents may seem distant to private business owners. However, they hit close to home for many small and mid-sized business (SMB) leaders. These leaders also serve on local boards, councils, and chambers of commerce. The truth is simple: the same weaknesses exploited in government networks exist in local businesses every day.

Why These Breaches Happen

Cyberattacks on Texas municipalities—and on small businesses—often share a common cause: unpatched systems, poor password management, and outdated backup strategies.
Hackers know that smaller organizations often lack the layered defenses that larger corporations use. Once inside, they move quickly—encrypting files, stealing credentials, and demanding ransom to unlock critical data.

In many of these recent attacks, investigators found that:

  • Multifactor authentication (MFA) was not enforced across all accounts.
  • Remote access was left open or weakly secured.
  • Backups were either incomplete or stored on the same network as live data.
  • Staff were not trained to recognize phishing emails.

These are not advanced, Hollywood-style cyber tactics. They’re everyday oversights. MSPs like SofTouch Systems can help remove them before they become headlines.

October Is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Each October, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us that strong digital hygiene starts with awareness and proactive planning. But for Texas SMBs, that awareness needs to go beyond “strong passwords.” It’s about building resilience.

Here are three actions STS recommends every local business and municipal office take this month:

  1. Audit your access points. Identify every device and user that connects to your network. Remove unnecessary access and enforce MFA on all accounts.
  2. Backup and test regularly. A backup isn’t a backup until it’s been successfully restored. Test your data recovery quarterly.
  3. Train your people. Phishing simulations and cybersecurity refreshers reduce your single biggest risk—human error.

These habits aren’t just good practice; they’re essential defense layers in an era when attacks are automated and indiscriminate.

How MSPs Help Prevent the Next Outage

A Managed Service Provider (MSP) like SofTouch Systems delivers proactive IT management. Municipalities and private-sector businesses alike now realize they need this. CISA: Stop Ransomware
Here’s how:

  • 24/7 Monitoring: STS identifies suspicious network behavior before it becomes a full breach.
  • Patch Management: Automatic updates close vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.
  • Password-First Security: As an authorized 1Password partner, STS enforces secure password vaults and passkey-based logins across teams.
  • Layered Protection: From Bitdefender-powered antivirus to managed VPNs and encrypted backups, each layer strengthens your digital perimeter.
  • No-Surprise IT: Transparent pricing, measurable SLAs, and our Bill-Clarity Guarantee mean you’ll never face hidden fees—or unplanned downtime.

Our South Texas team operates under a “Continuity Pledge.” You’ll know your dedicated technicians by name. They’ll know your systems inside and out. That consistency brings faster response times. It leads to fewer service gaps. You gain peace of mind knowing that your business is never left unprotected.

A Community Responsibility

You might manage a small clinic. Perhaps you run a construction firm or serve on a city technology committee. Regardless, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. It is now a civic duty. The same best practices that protect your business data also safeguard the systems that keep our local governments running.

When Texas municipalities suffer an outage, we all feel the effects. But with the right managed IT services, the next story doesn’t have to be about recovery—it can be about resilience.

Protect your business—and your community—from the next breach.
Book a free cybersecurity readiness assessment with SofTouch Systems today.
Contact STS | Stop attacks before they start.

Beyond Wi-Fi Worries: Using Antivirus, VPNs, and Password Managers Anywhere

Digital nomads face unique security challenges. Here’s how Bitdefender, 1Password, and VPNs keep your work safe from anywhere in the world.

The Digital Nomad’s Dilemma

Coffee shops in Bangkok, beachside cafés in Tulum, coworking spaces in Lisbon—the digital nomad lifestyle has exploded. For many professionals, the appeal is clear: work from anywhere, enjoy freedom, and stay connected globally.

But behind the Instagram photos is a serious reality: public Wi-Fi is one of the biggest security risks for travelers. Hackers can easily sniff traffic on open networks. In addition, there is the risk of stolen laptops at airports. Digital nomads are often more exposed than traditional office workers.

At SofTouch Systems (STS), we’ve built a No Surprise IT Security Stack. It brings enterprise-level protection to small businesses and nonprofits. It also protects world travelers. Our partnerships with Bitdefender (Antivirus), 1Password (Password Management), and soon VPN services provide the layered defense digital nomads need.

This article explains why each tool matters. It outlines the pros and cons of using them. Together, they create peace of mind for anyone who works beyond the cubicle.

Beyond Wi-Fi Worries: Using Antivirus, VPNs, and Password Managers. 1Password, Bitdefender, SofTouch Systems

Why Public Wi-Fi Is a Hacker’s Playground

If you’ve ever connected to “Free Airport Wi-Fi,” you’ve put yourself at risk. Cybercriminals often use open networks to:

  • Intercept unencrypted traffic (capturing emails, logins, even bank credentials).
  • Deploy malware that spreads silently across shared Wi-Fi.
  • Create “evil twin” networks (fake hotspots that trick you into connecting).

For digital nomads who rely on public internet, security tools aren’t optional—they’re survival gear. Let’s break down the three most critical.

Antivirus: The First Line of Defense

Bitdefender Partnership


STS partners with Bitdefender, and for good reason. Bitdefender isn’t just another antivirus program. It consistently ranks among the top performers in independent security lab tests. It excels in malware detection, phishing protection, and system performance. Unlike many bulky antivirus solutions, Bitdefender is designed to be lightweight. It runs quietly in the background. This ensures it doesn’t slow down your laptop or drain your phone battery. This is crucial for digital nomads who rely on portable devices. They may not always have access to fast internet or reliable charging stations.

What also sets Bitdefender apart is its multi-layered protection system. Beyond traditional virus scanning, it includes behavior-based threat detection. It also offers ransomware mitigation and even anti-theft tools for mobile devices. These features directly address the risks of working in airports, cafés, and co-working spaces worldwide. Bitdefender also offers cross-device licensing, which means one subscription can cover your laptop, phone, and tablet all at once. For nomads juggling multiple devices, that’s convenience without compromise.

In short, Bitdefender delivers enterprise-grade security. It fits the fast, mobile, and often unpredictable lifestyle of remote professionals. That’s why STS trusts it as the antivirus foundation of our No Surprise IT Security Stack.

Pros of Antivirus for Nomads

  • Stops Malware on Arrival: Antivirus scans downloads, attachments, and apps before they cause harm.
  • Real-Time Protection Anywhere: Whether you’re in San Antonio or South Korea, Bitdefender updates signatures automatically.
  • Cross-Device Coverage: Protects Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS—ideal for nomads juggling multiple devices.

Cons of Antivirus for Nomads

  • Performance Overhead: Even advanced solutions like Bitdefender can occasionally slow older devices.
  • False Positives: Sometimes safe apps get flagged, requiring manual overrides.
  • Not a Silver Bullet: Antivirus can’t prevent phishing or password theft—only part of the bigger stack.

VPNs: Privacy and Protection on the Move

Coming Soon to SofTouch Systems…

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, making it unreadable to anyone on the same Wi-Fi. It also masks your IP address, letting you appear as if you’re in another location.

Pros of VPNs for Nomads

  • Encrypted Traffic: Prevents hackers from intercepting sensitive data on public Wi-Fi.
  • Geo-Flexibility: Access services or websites restricted by region (great for nomads banking abroad).
  • Privacy from Trackers: Advertisers and ISPs see less of your browsing behavior.

Cons of VPNs for Nomads

  • Speed Trade-Offs: Encryption can slow down streaming or video calls, depending on server quality.
  • Trust in the Provider: A VPN is only as safe as the company running it—free VPNs are notoriously risky.
  • Device Setup Required: Each laptop, phone, or tablet must be configured correctly, or traffic may leak.

Password Managers: Securing the Human Side

1Password Partnership
Weak passwords are the easiest entry point for hackers. Unfortunately, they’re still one of the most common vulnerabilities in the wild. Digital nomads manage dozens of logins. These include airline apps, banking portals, client dashboards, and coworking memberships. A password manager isn’t just convenient. It’s essential. That’s where 1Password shines.

1Password stands out because of its dual-key encryption system. Even if a hacker breached its servers, your data remains locked behind your master password and your unique secret key. This is far stronger than typical password storage methods used by competitors. It integrates seamlessly across platforms—Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Your logins are always synced no matter what device you’re using. Whether you’re in Lisbon, Bangkok, or back home in Texas, they stay updated.

Beyond storing passwords, 1Password offers dark web monitoring to alert you if your credentials appear in a breach. It includes travel mode which temporarily removes sensitive data when crossing borders. It also offers secure sharing tools. These tools let you give a client temporary access to files or logins. This can be done without emailing insecure passwords. For nomads who regularly cross borders or handle sensitive client data, those features aren’t just perks—they’re critical safeguards.

In short, 1Password combines world-class encryption, cross-device convenience, and security features built for mobility, making it the perfect companion for digital nomads who can’t afford a password misstep while living and working abroad. That’s why STS chose it as a cornerstone of our No Surprise IT Security Stack.

Pros of Password Managers for Nomads

  • Unique, Strong Passwords: No more reusing “Travel2024!” across accounts.
  • Cross-Platform Sync: 1Password syncs vaults across devices, so your logins follow you anywhere.
  • Extra Features: Secure file storage, password sharing with clients, and even breach alerts.

Cons of Password Managers for Nomads

  • Learning Curve: Some users find vaults and master keys confusing at first.
  • Single Point of Failure: Lose your master password, and recovery can be tough.
  • Requires Trust: You must trust the vendor’s encryption model. (That’s why STS partners only with proven leaders like 1Password.)

Why All Three Tools Together Matter

A VPN without antivirus still leaves you open to malware. Antivirus without a password manager won’t stop account takeovers. A password manager without a VPN won’t protect you from packet sniffing on café Wi-Fi.

Security is strongest when layered.

  • Antivirus protects against malicious software.
  • VPNs secure the network pipe.
  • Password managers safeguard logins.

Together, these tools create a digital seatbelt, airbag, and crash-avoidance system for the traveling professional.

The Business Case for Security on the Go

If you’re a solo freelancer, you may wonder: is this really worth it? Consider this:

  • A single ransomware incident averages $4,000 in costs (often much higher for SMBs).
  • 36% of all data breaches in 2023 began with phishing—and nomads are prime targets.
  • Client trust matters: If you’re handling client data abroad, they expect enterprise-level diligence.

STS’s role is to simplify this for you. Don’t cobble together free tools and hope for the best. You get a tested, professional stack delivered with No Surprise IT pricing and support.

Advantages of the STS Approach

  • Trusted Partnerships: Bitdefender + 1Password + VPN are best-in-class.
  • Texas-Friendly Transparency: Flat monthly per-user pricing, no hidden fees.
  • 24/7 Peace of Mind: Whether you’re in Austin, Argentina, or Athens, our stack travels with you.

Travel Anywhere, Work Securely

Being a digital nomad means freedom, but freedom shouldn’t mean fear. By combining antivirus, VPN, and password management, you can work in any café, airport, or co-working space with confidence.

STS makes beyond Wi-Fi worries that easy. With our No Surprise IT Security Stack, you don’t have to think like a hacker. You just have to keep doing what you do best—working, traveling, and living life without Wi-Fi worries.

Next Step: Ready to build your own nomad-proof security stack? Contact SofTouch Systems for a free security audit.