The Year of the Windows 11 PC Refresh
Microsoft is officially ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This means no more security updates, leaving your computer and your business vulnerable to cyberattacks.
What does this mean for you?
- No more security updates: Hackers can easily exploit your computer, putting your sensitive data at risk.
- Office applications impacted: You’ll also stop receiving critical updates for your Office applications, including security patches and new features.
We’ve been warning you about this for a while now, but many businesses are still ignoring it. (estimated 63% of PCs are still running Windows 10)
What are your options?
Keep in mind, we only recommend 2 of these options.
1. Ignore and Risk It:
- Danger: This is NOT an option. Operating without security updates is extremely dangerous for your business and impacts your compliance.
- Our Advice: Start planning your migration now.
2. Buy a New PC (or Rent a Virtual One):
- Option: (1) Replace your old computer or (2) rent a Windows 11 virtual machine.
- Our Advice: Renting a virtual machine is complex and adds security risks. Replacing your old computers is the best long-term solution.
Additional Reading: The Benefits of Technology Lifecycle Management
3. Switch to Linux/ChromeOS:
- Option: Install a free operating system.
- Our Advice: “Free” will have hidden costs. Compatibility issues, learning curves, and potential support gaps will outweigh the initial savings.
4. Pay for Extended Support:
- Option: Purchase extra years of security updates from Microsoft.
- Our Advice: This is an expensive and temporary solution. You’ll still need to replace your computers eventually.
5. Upgrade to Windows 11:
- Option: Let CommWest help you assess your current devices and plan a smooth upgrade.
- Our Advice: Don’t attempt the upgrade yourself. Our team will ensure a seamless transition with minimal disruption to your business.
Important Reminders:
- Don’t panic! You have time to plan, but procrastination is not an option.
- Back up your data! Regardless of your chosen path, backup is important for your business.
- Don’t buy cheap! Investing in quality hardware will ensure long-term reliability and performance.
Contact CommWest today to discuss your Windows 10 end-of-support strategy. We’re here to help you make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition for your business.