Microsoft’s 2025 Deadline: What Businesses Need To Know

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for several widely used software products, including Windows 10, Office 2016, and Office 2019. With only a few months left, businesses must act quickly to assess their IT infrastructure and prepare for potential security, compliance, and operational challenges.

What Happens When Support Ends?

Once Microsoft discontinues support, affected software will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance. This leaves systems exposed to cyberthreats, increasing the risk of data breaches and operational disruptions. Additionally, outdated software may face compatibility issues with new applications and hardware, complicating business processes.

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For industries with strict regulatory requirements—such as finance, healthcare, and government—continuing to use unsupported software could lead to compliance violations and legal risks.

What Are The Options?

Upgrade To Newer Microsoft Products
- Businesses can transition to Microsoft 365 or Office 2024, both of which offer ongoing support and security updates. However, cloud-based solutions like Microsoft 365 require careful integration planning, especially in complex IT environments.
- Windows 10 users can upgrade to Windows 11, provided their hardware meets system requirements. If an immediate upgrade isn’t possible, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for a limited time—though at an additional cost.
Consider Alternative Solutions
- Companies seeking cost-effective options might explore LibreOffice, OpenOffice, or Google Workspace. While these alternatives offer similar functionality, they may require workflow adjustments and compatibility checks.
- Some businesses may opt to maintain legacy software with enhanced security measures. Partnering with IT specialists can help organizations navigate licensing, compliance, and cybersecurity concerns while extending the usability of older systems.

Preparing For A Smooth Transition

With the deadline approaching, businesses should start planning now. A strategic transition plan should include:

Conducting a software audit to identify affected systems.
Evaluating upgrade paths and cost-effective solutions.
Strengthening cybersecurity to mitigate risks.
Consulting IT professionals to address licensing and compliance challenges.

The end of support for Windows 10, Office 2016, and Office 2019 is a critical moment for businesses. Whether upgrading, switching to alternative platforms, or securing legacy systems, early action will ensure security, compliance, and long-term IT resilience.

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Cyprus’ Strong Youth Employment Rate Still Does Not Guarantee Early Independence

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2026

Young people in Cyprus have a relatively high employment rate, but they leave the parental home later than the EU average, according to Eurostat data.

Cypriots left home at an average age of 27 in 2025, compared with 26.3 years across the EU. At the same time, 72.3% of people aged 20 to 29 in Cyprus were employed, well above the EU average of 65.5%.

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Strong Employment Does Not Mean Early Independence

Only nine countries recorded higher youth employment rates than Cyprus. Iceland led at 85.3%, followed by the Netherlands at 84%, Malta at 82.1%, Switzerland at 78.3% and Germany at 77%.

Norway recorded 76.5%, Ireland 76.1%, Denmark 74.8% and Austria 74.6%. Eurostat said countries where young people leave home earlier generally tend to have higher youth employment rates.

Southern Europe Sees Later Moves

Finland had the lowest average age for leaving the parental home at 21.4 years, followed by Denmark at 21.8 and Estonia and Lithuania at 22.7. Croatia recorded the highest average at 31.5 years, followed by Greece and Slovakia at 30.9. Spain and Italy both stood at 30.2 years.

Across the EU, the average has remained close to 26 since 2002, rising only slightly from 26.2 years in 2024 to 26.3 years in 2025.

Cyprus Labour Market Is Cooling

The figures come as Cyprus’ labor market shows some signs of easing, although demand for workers remains relatively strong by European standards.

Separate Eurostat data showed Cyprus had the EU’s largest annual decline in its job vacancy rate in the second quarter of 2026. The rate fell to 2.6% from 3.3% a year earlier, but remained above the EU average of 2.0% and the euro area average of 2.1%.

Cost Of Living Remains A Factor

Housing and other living costs can also affect how quickly young workers establish independent households. Eurostat reported that Cyprus’ household consumption price level was 89.2% of the EU average in 2025.

A relatively lower overall price level does not eliminate affordability pressures for people on modest incomes. For younger workers, the issue can be whether wages are sufficient to cover rent, utilities, food and other basic expenses.

Cyprus therefore combines relatively high youth employment with a later transition to independent living, suggesting that access to work and the ability to afford a separate household do not always move together.

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