Since its debut in 2015, Windows 10 has enjoyed a very long run at the top. Today, the popular operating system is still installed on more than 65% of all desktop PCs, making it the most widely used OS in the world.
But time marches on, and the future officially arrived several years ago in the form of Windows 11. Since then, this new version of Windows has rapidly gained users, while boasting some significant improvements over its predecessor.
Here’s three reasons we think it’s time for businesses to start making the switch, especially large enterprises that require significant time and effort to plan any user migrations at scale.
- Windows 10 support is ending
The clock started ticking for businesses the moment Microsoft announced they will stop supporting Windows 10 in October 2025. That’s because unsupported operating systems no longer receive regular patches, updates, or cybersecurity enhancements.
At the very least, this leads to increasing stability and performance issues over time. At the enterprise level, keeping your devices on an unsupported operating system can also leave you vulnerable to security attacks. Cybercriminals flock to unsupported devices, especially on larger networks. Not only are they easier to hack; they telegraph suboptimal technology and security standards and signal that your organization may be easy picking.
- Resistance can be very expensive
Once official support ends; it will be a tough world for users who resist migrating to Windows 11. In fact, businesses who stick with Windows 10 after support ends in 2025 could find themselves paying more than $400 per device in new subscription fees for extended security updates over three years.
Compare this with upgrading to Windows 11, which is estimated to offer full payback on initial costs within six months, while offering more than 200% return on investment over three years in the form of reduced risks and increased productivity.
- Windows 11 is pretty awesome
Windows 10 works great for a 15-year-old OS, but Windows 11 brings a lot to the table. Major highlights include a more intuitive interface and better integration with the cloud-based tools that have gone from neat tricks to must-haves over the last decade. This includes Microsoft Teams, which is built directly into the main taskbar for easier access and better functionality.
Windows 11 also offers better security protections for new devices, while making the most of their state-of-the art hardware. Overall, this translates to smaller, safer, and faster devices without sacrificing other important workplace features such as battery life.
The truth is its past time for large businesses to say goodbye to Windows 10. However, migrating your entire organization to a new operating system doesn’t happen overnight; especially when you’re dealing with hundreds or thousands of devices and users.
That’s where Pomeroy comes in! Click here to learn more about how we’re helping our clients plan and execute successful migrations, no matter the size or complexity, or visit our Windows 11 Info Center for more information.
