The Microsoft Windows operating system is a ubiquitous part of everyday life. Whether at work or at home, most people interact with some form of Microsoft’s operating system and software tools. In fact, Statista found that as of February 2024, 72% of desktop operating systems (OS) worldwide run Windows. Of those, most should be familiar with the Windows 10 operating system.
When it launched in July 2015, Windows 10 brought with it a redesigned Start Menu, the Microsoft Edge Browser, biometric security for the first time in the form of Windows Hello, window snapping, and many other helpful features.
But like they say, all good things must come to an end. Windows 10 will officially enter end of support on October 14th, 2025. What does this mean for you and how can you prepare? Let’s dive into the top 3 questions surrounding Windows 10 end of life so you can be prepared for the transition to Windows 11.
What Does End of Support for Windows 10 Mean?
While Windows 10 machines will still function after the end of support date, they will no longer receive any security updates. This means they are vulnerable to compromise and should no longer be used in business or home environments. Any newly discovered vulnerabilities in the operating system will remain unpatched. Over time, attacks on these known open spots tend to become more common.
Additionally, third party software vendors often stop releasing updates specifically for out-of-support operating systems. As a result, the programs may stop running so you may become quickly unable to run applications as intended.
If you have systems that are running Windows 10, there are a few options to move to Windows 11 and be protected.
What Do I Need to Run Windows 11?
For your computer to run Windows 11, there are some minimum system specifications required that are stricter than previous Windows OS versions.
Minimum System Specifications for Windows 11:
- Dual Core Processor 1Ghz or faster with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Intel CPU – Must be 8th Generation or newer
- AMD – 2nd Generation Ryzen or newer
- 4GB RAM
- 64GB Storage
- DirectX 12 Graphics
Microsoft has made an in-place upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 available at no cost through the Windows update channel. Your IT provider can also centrally deploy the Windows 11 upgrade. For compatible systems and computers that are less than 3-4 years old, this will be the most straightforward way to move into an updated operating system.
What If My System Does Not Meet the Minimum Specifications for Windows 11?
If your computer does not meet the minimum Windows 11 specifications, a new PC will be necessary to remain secure and protected. Use the upgrade timeline strategically to evaluate what solution makes the most sense for the next few years.
If you have an older desktop, an upgrade to a laptop with Windows 11 and a docking station would be a significant improvement in portability, especially with the rise in hybrid work. Newer laptops can also come with nifty features such as touchscreens, thinner construction, faster performance, and significantly longer battery life.
Windows 11 features performance improvements, as well as an interface that should be visually familiar to most Windows 10 users. Updates to the task bar, Microsoft Store experience, Teams native integration, and other changes mean that this operating system should have a long life ahead of it in business and personal use.
If you have not created a Windows 11 adoption plan, we encourage you to reach out to Kite Technology Group for help planning and executing this change for your business!
Ryan Emerick
Director of Client Experience
Kite Technology Group
