It’s Time To Say Goodbye To Windows 10 – and Hello To Windows 11

As we approach the end of support for Windows 10, it’s crucial to understand the implications and plan for a smooth transition to Windows 11. Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 will reach its end of life on 14th October 2025. This blog post will discuss the risks of continuing with Windows 10, benefits of upgrading to Windows 11, and a suggested timeline for the transition. 

Windows 10 end of life

Microsoft will no longer provide support for Windows 10, including the Home, Pro, Pro Education, and Pro for Workstations editions, after 14th October 2025. This means: 

• No more free monthly software updates 

• No regular security updates 

• No technical support 

• No bug fix patches 

Risks of continuing with Windows 10

Using an outdated operating system can leave your computers more vulnerable to: 

• Security threats: Without regular security updates, your systems are at a higher risk of being targeted by malware, viruses, and other cyber threats. 

• Operational issues: Lack of bug fix patches can lead to software malfunctions and decreased performance. 

• Compliance risks: Running unsupported software may lead to non-compliance with industry regulations and standards. 

Benefits of upgrading to Windows 11

Windows 11 offers numerous benefits, including new AI-powered features: 

• Work more efficiently with the built-in AI assistant Copilot 

• Easier navigation with a streamlined user interface 

• Find files faster with smart recommendations 

• Enhanced app security with Smart App Control predicting safe apps to run 

• Increased data protection through BitLocker drive encryption 

Hardware requirements

Windows 11 version 24H2 has stricter hardware requirements, which may necessitate new devices. However, most PCs that are less than five years old are eligible for the upgrade. 

Suggested timeline for upgrading to Windows 11

April – June 2025 

• Assessment phase: Evaluate your current hardware and software to determine compatibility with Windows 11. 

• Budget planning: Allocate budget for any necessary hardware upgrades or new devices. 

July – August 2025 

• Pilot testing: Begin testing Windows 11 on a small number of devices to identify any potential issues and ensure compatibility with your existing applications. 

September 2025 

• Full deployment preparation: Finalise your deployment plan, including scheduling and communication with your team. 

• Training: Provide training sessions for your staff to familiarise them with the new features and interface of Windows 11. 

October 2025: 

• Full deployment: Roll out Windows 11 across all devices to ensure your systems are up-to-date and secure before the Windows 10 End of Life date. 

Planning your transition to Windows 11 well in advance will ensure continued support and security for your systems. If you need assistance with the upgrade process or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.