The financial pressures businesses are currently facing can mean it’s tempting to ignore those ageing computers sitting in the corner of the room that are “still working fine”. But outdated IT hardware can quietly become one of the biggest risks to your business – especially when it comes to cyber security.

Why Old Tech Becomes a Security Risk

The lifecycle of IT hardware isn’t just about how long something keeps turning on – it’s about how long it remains secure, reliable, and supported. Once hardware or software reaches the end of its support, it no longer receives crucial security updates. These updates are your first line of defence against cyber threats. Without them, vulnerabilities go unpatched, leaving the door wide open for attackers.

Unpatched software is one of the most common ways cybercriminals gain access to systems. Hackers actively scan for these weaknesses, knowing that many businesses are still running outdated operating systems or applications that haven’t been updated in years.

And it’s not just about your own business – outdated tech in your supply chain can also leave you exposed. If a supplier is compromised due to old systems, it can impact your data, your operations, and your reputation.

Real-World Scenarios: NHS & M&S

Let’s not forget the WannaCry ransomware attack back in 2017. It brought large parts of the NHS to a standstill, all because of unpatched Windows systems. Thousands of appointments and operations were canceled, and the disruption lasted for weeks.

More recently, over Easter, Marks & Spencer were hit by a major cyber attack. Hackers tricked their way into the company’s systems by pretending to be staff and convincing IT teams to reset passwords. This caused big problems, including online shopping being taken offline, contactless payments not working properly in stores, and the company having to pause its job application system. All causing serious disruption for both M&S and its customers.

What’s important here is that the attack made use of weaknesses in their systems – something that can happen when businesses rely on outdated IT hardware or unpatched software. Old systems are easier to break into because they don’t get the security updates that newer tech does. This is the perfect example to show how vital it is to keep your tech up to date, check for any weak spots, and make sure your business has the right protection in place.

Why Do Businesses Still Use Outdated IT Hardware?

If it’s so risky, why do so many businesses still hang onto ageing tech?

• Cost concerns – Replacing IT hardware can feel expensive, especially for small businesses.
• Fear of disruption – Upgrading systems can cause downtime or require staff training.
• Lack of awareness – Many people simply don’t realise the risks or assume “it won’t happen to us.”

But the cost of a breach, both financial and reputational, can far outweigh the price of an upgrade. Investing in modern, secure systems is just good business sense.

How Outdated Devices Threaten Business Security

Old hardware doesn’t just slow things down – it can actively put your business in danger.

• No security updates – Manufacturers stop supporting old equipment, meaning no patches for newly discovered flaws.
• Weak encryption – Older systems often use outdated encryption methods that are easier for hackers to break.
• Compatibility issues – Newer security software may not run on old machines, leaving them unprotected.
• Performance bottlenecks – Slower systems can hamper your ability to respond to threats in real time.

In short, outdated tech creates weak spots in your defences, and attackers know exactly where to look.

How to Secure Ageing Systems

If replacing everything at once isn’t practical, there are still steps you can take to protect your business.

1. Identify what’s at risk – Start by reviewing your current IT hardware inventory. Flag anything running unsupported software or showing signs of performance issues.
2. Use virtual machines or segmentation – If legacy software must be kept, consider isolating it in a virtual machine. This can reduce the risk of wider network exposure.
3. Work with a trusted IT support provider – Companies like Intrasource help businesses manage their IT hardware lifecycle, from identifying risks to planning upgrades without disrupting day-to-day operations.
4. Know when to upgrade – Have a clear plan for replacing ageing systems. This doesn’t have to happen overnight, but regular reviews and a phased upgrade approach can keep you ahead of potential threats.

The Role of Managed IT Services

Managing the IT hardware lifecycle doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With managed IT services, businesses can rely on regular monitoring, patching, and support to keep systems secure and up to date. At Intrasource, we help businesses strike the right balance – updating where needed, supporting legacy systems safely, and staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.

If you’re unsure whether your systems are at risk, that’s a good sign it’s time to check.

Sticking with outdated IT hardware might seem like the easier option – but it’s a gamble that could cost your business dearly. From unpatched software and weak encryption to real-world ransomware attacks like the one that hit M&S, the risks are real and growing.

Now’s the time to take stock of your systems, patch the gaps, and plan for the future. Your business, and your customers, depend on it.

Need help managing your IT systems or planning a hardware refresh? Intrasource are here to help you navigate the risks and stay secure. Get in touch with us today.