The clock is ticking on Windows 10, with Microsoft setting October 2025 as the end of its official tenure.
While Windows 11 has been available for over two years, many companies have taken a ‘wait and see’ approach, conscious of past Windows upgrades that caused more problems than they solved.
However, Windows 11 represents genuine innovation. It furthers Microsoft’s support for hybrid working and introduces genuine improvements in collaboration and data security.
As we hurtle towards the deadline, it’s time to seriously assess what Windows 11 could mean for your organisation.
Beyond the Surface Changes
At first glance of the new Windows 11 interface, you’ll notice a centred Start menu and mostly rounded corners – quite different from what most people are used to.
However, really, it’s all about integrations. Microsoft Teams integration means video calls and file sharing are more tightly integrated with your workstation, with chat and collaboration tools always just a click away.
The new Snap Layouts feature makes switching between different tasks across home and office setups far easier – very useful for multi-monitor users.
Plug in an external monitor, and Windows 11 will remember exactly how you arranged your windows last time, a handy feature for work-from-home setups.
Further, Windows 11 boot times are significantly faster, especially on newer hardware. The system handles background updates more efficiently, reducing those productivity-killing “update and restart” moments. Battery life is also dramatically improved.
Understanding the Security Overhaul
Security is pivotal to Windows 11, with protection built into the hardware itself.
This involves the specialised TPM 2.0 security chip, which acts as a vault for your sensitive data. It encrypts your information and verifies that nobody has tampered with your system when it starts up.
While this offers fantastic protection for remote workers, it’s also why many existing machines won’t make the grade for Windows 11 – and will therefore need upgrading too.
Reports cited by Tech Radar suggest only about 44% of current business workstations can handle the automatic upgrade.
Planning Your Migration
Moving systems to Windows 11 requires careful orchestration. Start by conducting a thorough hardware audit to determine which machines can be upgraded and which need to be replaced.
Test your critical business applications for compatibility – not everything works perfectly yet – though this is changing fast. Consider running a pilot program with a small group before rolling out widely.
Key areas to assess include:
- Age and capability of existing machines
- Critical software compatibility
- User training requirements
- Department-specific needs
- Business-critical timing windows
A measured, phased approach often proves most successful – which we can help with at Hive. View our software and migration services.
Ready to Make the Switch to Windows 11?
The countdown to Windows 10’s end-of-life has begun. Rushing your business’s transition could lead to unexpected costs, security risks, and operational disruptions.
By planning now, you ensure a smooth upgrade, maintain business continuity, and unlock the benefits of a modern, secure OS.
At Hive Communications, we specialise in seamless IT transitions. Let’s assess your current setup, minimise disruption, and make Windows 11 work for you.
Get in touch today and start your migration with confidence.
