The deadline for Windows 10 ‘End of Life’ is looming, but with twice as many devices still using Windows 10 compared to the latest version, businesses need to reconsider and start exploring upgrade options soon.
Users have until 14th October 2025 to migrate from Windows 10 to Windows 11. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide Windows 10 updates and security patches.
Holker Head of Sales Graham Jackson talks us through the importance of upgrading
There’s no getting around it, upgrading is crucial. By not upgrading, users will miss out on essential bug fixes and security updates, along with several new built-in security features that Windows 11 offers in addition to its existing security tools, Windows Security and Microsoft Defender.
The new Windows 11 security features are designed to further protect your device. For example, a security alarm has been added to help prevent hackers or malware from accessing data. Newer CPUs will enable features that reduce the impact of viruses and malware attacks.
Another protection feature ensures that only valid software can run on the device. Additionally, identity validation is required to access your system each time you use it, further protecting your device from unwanted access.
In addition, unsupported software may not be compatible with newer technologies, potentially affecting productivity and efficiency.
Specific system requirements needed for the upgrade:
Internet connectivity and Microsoft accounts: Windows 11 Pro edition requires internet connectivity and a Microsoft account to complete your device setup.
Operating system: Your device must already be running Windows 10, version 2004 or later, to upgrade to Windows 11.
Processors/central processing units (CPUs): The processor in your PC will be a main determining factor for running Windows 11. Your PC must have a processor frequency of 1 GHz or faster, have two or more cores, and appear on Microsoft’s list of approved CPUs.
Random access memory (RAM): Your PC will need at least 4 GB of RAM.
Storage: Your PC will need at least 64 GB for storage. Note that extra storage space may be required to download updates and enable specific features.
System firmware: Your device must have Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), a modern version of the PC BIOS, and be Secure Boot capable.
Trusted Platform Module (TPM): Your device should have TPM version 2.0.
Graphics card: Your device must be compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
Display: Your device needs a high-definition (720p) display that is at least nine inches diagonally or greater, with eight bits per color channel, to show the intended user interface of Windows.
Contact Graham on 0333 305 2020 for more information or to discuss your options.
