Your business probably runs on a Windows operating system, as for many, it’s a vital platform for supporting and running the applications and digital resources that manage their daily operations and help their teams collaborate.
However, if you haven’t already, you may need to upgrade your current operating system. On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10. Continuing to use it beyond this date can leave you vulnerable to security risks, so it’s wise to plan your switch to Windows 11 now.
With the right information and guidance, transitioning to a new operating system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to simplify your transition: the risks of using Windows 10 after its end-of-support date, the system requirements for Windows 11, and the new features that boost workplace productivity
Why is it risky to continue using Windows 10 after Microsoft stops supporting it?
Organizations face many dangers if planning to use Windows 10 after its end-of-support date.
Incidents like the recent cyber attack that shut down all Calgary Public Library locations or security breach that temporarily disrupted access to the Wayback Machine highlight the growing threat for business operations, many leading to serious financial and other consequences.
Without Microsoft’s regular security updates and patches, your operating system would become an easy target for these types of cyberattacks, jeopardizing your PCs along with your broader IT infrastructure.
An unsupported system will degrade over time. Symptoms may appear as slower processing times, frequent crashes, and potential data loss, all of which can frustrate employees and dampen morale. The end of official Microsoft technical support for Windows 10 also means it will be more challenging to resolve issues like software bugs and app incompatibility, making it harder for your team to work efficiently and lowering productivity.
Beyond the potential adverse outcomes, it’s about seizing the positives of a new operating system. By upgrading to Windows 11, businesses can tap into innovative new features and enhancements that can transform workflows, driving better results and smoother operations.
System requirements for Windows 11.
When planning your transition to Windows 11, one of your first steps will be verifying that your current hardware is compatible with the new operating system.
System requirements for Windows 11 include:
- 1 GHz or faster with 2+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or SoC
- At least 4 GB of RAM
- At least 64 GB of storage
- System firmware that is UEFI and Secure Boot capable
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- A graphics card with WDDM 2.0 driver that is compatible with DirectX 12 or later
- 720p HD display over 9” with 8-bit color depth
You can verify this information easily using Microsoft’s PC Health Check. Additionally, if you want to use certain advanced Windows 11 features, you may still need to procure new computers like a Copilot+ PC.
Once you verify the eligibility of your devices and determine that your organization does need to source new hardware, you will benefit from developing a comprehensive device refresh strategy that helps you maximize your long-term performance and security.
New Windows 11 features that will benefit your organization.
It’s natural to feel some anxiety about changing your IT environment, but when it comes to Windows 11, investing in new hardware will be worth it. Modernizing your infrastructure can add real value, empowering both your day-to-day operations and your ability to achieve long-term business goals.
Among the many Windows 11 features and benefits, here are a few that stand out:
Security
Some Windows 11 security features require specific hardware for optimal performance. Upgrading your device may be necessary to fully benefit from these improvements.
- The required TPM 2.0 chip helps organizations protect against cyberattacks and physical sabotage by offering a tamper-proof unit that works separately from the main CPU and memory. It supports BitLocker Encryption, Secure Boot and Credential Guard to prevent unauthorized access
- Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) and Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI) are two components that work together to protect your device’s memory in a secure, isolated space with built-in mechanisms for ensuring authorized file and driver use.
When it comes to software, Windows 11 also offers users access to:
- An elevated Windows Hello for Business, with enhanced algorithms, anti-spoofing measures, and integration with Azure Active Directory (AAD) for more robust access control.
- An upgraded Microsoft Defender with automated threat remediation, AI-driven threat detection, and advanced threat analytics.
User Experience
The shift to Windows 11 won’t be so drastically different that it feels like you’re using a wildly different operating system. The company’s goal is to help Microsoft users experience a seamless transition that simply elevates their workday.
However, they have made changes to the interface to improve the look and feel. These include a centered start button, sophisticated voice typing options, upgraded sound quality, and better device storage management capabilities.
Productivity
In Windows 11, Microsoft has also integrated almost countless new options for using your devices more efficiently, such as the ability to personalize your File Explorer, access your clipboard history, leverage a Default Pomodoro timer, and organize your open windows with snap assist.
Automation
Windows 11 deeply integrates Microsoft’s virtual AI assistant, Copilot, into its ecosystem. You can use the tool to simplify how you navigate your PC or use various applications, including Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
According to Microsoft, Copilot can be especially used to help organize and streamline three key areas:
- Boosting employee productivity and creativity: You can save time when sourcing business data for a task, catch up quickly on meetings and documents, and generate first drafts for important documents.
- Enhancing your organization’s efficiency: Users can quickly create branded presentations, get feedback on customer service, or offload certain business processes.
- Strengthen cybersecurity: Along with the effective Windows 11 security features, you can use Copilot to apply and oversee policies and answer your questions about business data while keeping it confidential in a secure environment.
Remember, Microsoft will regularly update Windows 11, so expect new features and improvements to keep coming!
Transition to Windows 11 with PC Corp’s support
Given the benefits of switching to Windows 11 and the potential risks of staying behind with Windows 10, organizations should start planning their upgrade to the newer operating system as soon as possible.
The good news: the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is FREE, unless you need to buy new devices.
When you partner with PC Corp, our IT projects team will be available to help you plan and transition to Windows 11. Once you’re in your new environment, our managed IT services offer you access to technical experts who can maintain it and help all its components operate smoothly and securely. They work with a robust zero-trust cybersecurity approach that uses the available Windows 11 features to protect your business’ data and resources.
Contact us today to learn how we can prepare your organization for a successful Windows 11 migration and experience.
