The Windows 10 security transition is approaching its final phase. From 14 October, Microsoft will stop providing technical assistance, software updates and security patches, leaving users increasingly vulnerable to malicious cyber threats.
If your business still uses Windows 10 PCs and servers, it’s time to prepare for what’s next and plan your transition to Windows 11 which may include hardware investment to support the new operating system.
Size doesn't matter
Small to medium-sized businesses are a vital part of our economy. In Britain they employ 16.6 million people with an estimated £2.8 trillion turnover. However, smaller businesses often have fewer resources available, which puts them at an increased risk of cyber attack.
With the majority of the population and trade dependent on technology, it’s crucial that all businesses regularly invest in their IT infrastructure and adhere to robust cyber security protocols which are tested and regularly updated.
While Windows 10 PCs will still work after the deadline, we highly recommend systems using the software and connected to a network make the switch well before the October deadline to avoid surprise costs, delays and security issues.
Preparation, as with most things, is key.
Here are three simple steps to plan your upgrade!
Prepare
- Set aside time to assess your IT assets as soon as possible.
- How many devices use Windows 10 and can your current hardware support Windows 11?
- A significant number of PCs will be unable to upgrade due to hardware limitations. If a PC fails to meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11 – a minimum of 64GB hard drive storage and 4GB RAM – your business will have to foot the bill for any new equipment and set-up that is needed.
- Does your business use Microsoft 365? These apps – running natively on your PCs – will not be supported on Windows 10 after the deadline.
- Depending on the size of your business and requirements, this work may be time-consuming and expensive, so don’t wait to begin this process. Your IT department or IT partner should assist you with this review.
Plan
Having conducted your initial assessment, and created an outline plan of action, a staggered approach to introducing and implementing new technology will allow you to budget effectively, reduce downtime for your business and customers, and reduce the impact of future end-of-life deadlines.
Set aside time for system backups, ensuring staff files, settings and applications are securely moved across to the new kit. Having an upgrade schedule is imperative to keep your organisation on track.
Implement
Put your plan into action and begin the roll-out process to achieve effective results. Monitor and adjust the process to account for hidden or surprise changes, such as extra costs (financial and time), supporting client requirements or liaising with remote staff.
Avoid panic!
It’s important that your IT strategy is feasible within your deadline and on your proposed budget. Having a detailed plan of action will take away the uncertainty and allow you to focus on your business.
Globally, cyber security has never been more important. The UK Government estimates there were approximately 2.39 million instances of cyber crime and 49,000 instances of fraud across all businesses. While these are terrifying figures, it’s important to recognise that for most businesses, regardless of scale, switching to Windows 11 will be a straightforward process which will bolster security and help avoid your company becoming part of the statistics.
If you need more information on digital security, read our article Enhance Business Cyber Resilience: Safeguard Your Future and check out our free catalogue of back-to-basics and refresher essentials for navigating all risk management and cybersecurity topics.
Further guidance is also available from Microsoft Support site.
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