Is your business prepared for 14th October 2025? Marking the end of Windows 10, many Berkshire businesses are facing a critical decision: upgrade to Windows 11 or risk operational disruption.
Let’s explore what Windows 11 means for your business, why now is the time to act, and how our IT experts can support you through a smooth, stress-free upgrade.
What Is Windows 11, and When Is Windows 10 End of Life?
Windows 11 is Microsoft’s latest operating system, designed with modern business needs in mind. It offers enhanced performance, stronger cyber security, and better support for hybrid work environments.
But the real urgency lies with Windows 10 reaching its end-of-life on 14th October 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for Windows 10 devices.
That means your business could be left exposed to unpatched vulnerabilities and compatibility issues – and with recent data revealing that 53% of businesses are still running Windows 10, it’s never been more critical to begin getting ready.
Without a clear upgrade plan, this could leave many companies scrambling at the last minute.
Compatibility, Upgrade Paths, and the Cost of Waiting
Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t as straightforward as clicking ‘update.’
Berkshire businesses with older devices or legacy systems must make sure they understand the compatibility requirements and upgrade options for Windows 11 to avoid last-minute disruptions.
Minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11
Before you can upgrade, your devices need to meet Microsoft’s minimum specifications.
- Processor: Minimum 1GHz or faster, 64-bit, with 2 or more cores and included in Microsoft’s approved CPU list.
- RAM: Have a minimum of 4GB (8GB+ recommended for business use).
- Storage: 64GB or more of available storage.
- System firmware: UEFI (not BIOS) with Secure Boot capability.
- TPM version: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
- Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display: High definition (720p) display, greater than 9” diagonally.
Upgrade paths for businesses
There are several choices available for businesses preparing to upgrade. For devices that meet the compatibility requirements, the process is typically straightforward – these systems can often be upgraded via standard Windows upgrade tools, resulting in minimal disruption to operations.
However, not all devices will meet Windows 11’s hardware standards. Older machines, particularly those purchased before 2020, may need to be replaced entirely. It’s important to factor in the cost of new equipment and the time and resources required to reinstall crucial software.
Some businesses may also find themselves managing a hybrid environment during the transition period, with a mix of Windows 10 and Windows 11. This can be a practical short-term solution, but it does demand careful planning to maintain system security and avoid inconsistencies across operations.
The cost of waiting
Delaying your Windows 11 upgrade could lead to a range of avoidable problems:
- Operational delays: As systems age and updates end, they become slower, less stable, and more prone to crashes – leading to lost productivity.
- Unexpected costs: Leaving upgrades until the last minute could result in emergency hardware purchases at premium prices, with limited stock availability as the deadline nears.
- Cyber risks: Once Windows 10 reaches end of life, there will be no more security updates. Every device still running it becomes a liability, vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and other threats.
- Software incompatibility: Software vendors are phasing out support for Windows 10, limiting your ability to run the latest business tools or updates.
- Compliance issues: For organisations in regulated industries, using unsupported software could lead to compliance breaches and penalties.
SolCo: Supporting Berkshire Businesses Through the Windows 11 Transition
At SolCo, we’ve been helping businesses across Berkshire prepare for this transition since Windows 10 end-of-life was first announced.
Our IT support team has already completed proactive system audits, upgrade planning, and device refreshes for many of our clients – ensuring they’re not caught off guard. Whether your business operates with a few laptops or a fleet of workstations, we help you:
- Identify which devices are compatible (and which aren’t).
- Plan a phased, cost-effective upgrade strategy.
- Minimise downtime during the transition.
- Secure your systems with Windows 11’s advanced features.
Schedule a Meeting with Us
The Windows 10 end-of-life date is fast approaching, and businesses that delay risk more than just outdated software. With rising security threats and unexpected costs, the consequences of waiting are real.
Unsure where your business stands? Let’s check your upgrade readiness together. Book a meeting with us today to schedule your Windows 11 audit.
