Windows 10 End of Life

What Your Business Needs to Know About Upgrading to Windows 11

The clock is ticking for Windows 10. Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14, 2025. If your business still relies on Windows 10, it’s time to start planning for a smooth transition to Windows 11. At American Business Machines, we understand that technology transitions can be complex, and we’re here to guide you through the process.

What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?

Once Microsoft stops providing updates for Windows 10, businesses will face several risks, including:

• Security vulnerabilities: No more free security updates means your systems could be exposed to emerging cyber threats. Hackers often target outdated systems, exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities to steal data or disrupt operations.
• Compliance risks: If your industry follows strict regulations (such as HIPAA, FINRA, or PCI-DSS), running outdated software may result in compliance violations and potential fines.
• Software compatibility issues: New applications and business software may no longer support Windows 10, forcing businesses to find workarounds that can slow productivity.
• Limited technical support: As vendors phase out support, troubleshooting and maintenance will become more difficult and costly.
• Reduced system performance: As Microsoft and software developers optimize for Windows 11, older Windows 10 systems may see lagging performance and inefficiencies over time.

Windows 11: The Benefits of Upgrading

Transitioning to Windows 11 is the best way to keep your business secure and efficient. Here’s why:

• Enhanced security: Built-in security features such as TPM 2.0, Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), and Secure Boot offer superior protection against cyber threats. Windows 11 also includes Windows Hello for biometric logins and built-in ransomware protection.
• Improved performance: Windows 11 optimizes memory management and processing, leading to faster speeds, reduced boot times, and better multitasking.
• AI-driven enhancements: Microsoft has incorporated AI-powered tools like Copilot in Windows 11 to help with automation, smarter search, and workflow efficiency.
• Better power efficiency: Windows 11 is designed for better battery life, making laptops and mobile workstations more efficient, which is crucial for remote and hybrid teams.
• Modern user interface: A cleaner, more intuitive design enhances productivity and collaboration, making it easier to navigate multiple windows and applications.
• Better hardware support: Windows 11 is designed to work seamlessly with the latest processors and hardware innovations, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

How to Prepare for the Transition

To ensure a smooth migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11, businesses should take the following steps:

1. Assess Hardware Compatibility

Not all devices running Windows 10 can upgrade to Windows 11. Microsoft’s system requirements include:

• 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz and 2 or more cores
• 4GB RAM minimum (8GB+ recommended for business use)
• 64GB storage minimum
• TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot capability

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to determine which of your devices are compatible. If a significant portion of your fleet is incompatible, it may be time to budget for new hardware.

2. Plan for Upgrades or Replacements

If your current hardware doesn’t meet Windows 11 requirements, you have two options:

• Upgrade the hardware (e.g., add RAM, update the motherboard, or enable TPM 2.0 in BIOS)
• Replace outdated devices with new, Windows 11-ready machines

While upgrading individual components may seem cost-effective, replacing old machines entirely often provides better long-term performance and security benefits.

3. Backup Critical Data

Before making any major updates, ensure you have a secure backup of all essential business data. Use cloud storage, external drives, or network backups to prevent data loss during migration. Implementing a disaster recovery plan ensures business continuity in case of unexpected failures.

4. Test Windows 11 in a Controlled Environment

Rolling out Windows 11 company-wide without testing can lead to disruptions. First, install it on a few test devices to check for compatibility issues with essential business applications and workflows. This also allows your IT team to troubleshoot problems before a full deployment.

5. Train Employees on Windows 11

A new operating system means a learning curve for employees. Providing training sessions on Windows 11’s interface and new features will ensure a smooth transition. Consider holding webinars, one-on-one training, or providing online resources to help employees get familiar with the changes.

6. Plan for IT Support and Troubleshooting

Work with an IT partner like American Business Machines to ensure a seamless migration. We can help troubleshoot issues, update legacy applications, and implement security best practices. Having a dedicated support plan in place will minimize downtime and keep your business running smoothly.

What If Upgrading Isn’t an Option?

For businesses unable to transition before the Windows 10 end-of-life date, Microsoft is offering Extended Security Updates (ESU) at an additional cost. While this provides an extra year of security updates, it is a temporary solution and does not address software compatibility or performance concerns. Relying on ESU long-term could become costly and leave your organization exposed to risks.

Cost Considerations of Waiting

• ESU pricing: Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates start at $30 per device per year and increase annually.
• Lost productivity: Running outdated systems leads to slower performance, more crashes, and potential cybersecurity incidents, all of which can be costly.
• Increased IT burden: IT teams will need to spend more time maintaining older systems rather than focusing on innovation and growth.

Get Expert Help for Your Windows 11 Upgrade

Upgrading to Windows 11 is an essential step to keeping your business secure. American Business Machines is here to help, from assessing your hardware for upgrade to providing IT support during migration.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Contact us today to ensure a smooth and stress-free transition to Windows 11!