As we step deeper into 2024, the urgency for enterprises to migrate to Windows 11 is becoming a topic that can't be ignored. The latest findings from Lansweeper, an asset management firm, indicate that migration efforts are finally gathering steam, with millions of devices still clinging to the dwindling support of Windows 10. This shift isn't just a matter of preference but rather an impending necessity, as mainstream support for Windows 10 is set to expire on October 14, 2025.
Interestingly, only 3.5% of Windows 10 devices are utilizing the Long Term Servicing Branch, implying that for many users, the upgrade to Windows 11 is unavoidable once support for Windows 10 fully lapses.
However, in a turn of events, it appears that as organizations phase out old hardware, there’s been an uptick in the market that allows for new devices equipped with Windows 11. Esben Dochy from Lansweeper noted that this current year's data indicates a nearly 15% increase in Windows 11 adoption—not necessarily because companies rushed to buy fresh hardware, but largely due to upgrades on existing PCs that can handle the newer OS.
So, why is the migration to Windows 11 now a critical focus? It boils down to an essential question of compliance and security. With cybersecurity risks at an all-time high, having updated operating systems is not merely a recommendation but a requirement for safeguarding sensitive data and adhering to internal policies or regulatory frameworks.
In summary, as the countdown ticks on Windows 10's support, enterprises are realizing that adopting Windows 11 isn't just a technological upgrade; it's about future-proofing their operations and ensuring compliance with evolving standards. Windows 11's adoption rate may be climbing, but the journey is just beginning.
In this fast-paced tech landscape, the question on everyone’s mind is not whether to migrate, but when will your organization make the leap?
Source: The Register Windows 11 migration? Upgrade engine revs up, enterprises have no choice
The Numbers Speak
According to Lansweeper's recent data, which monitors around 15 million Windows devices, Windows 10's share in the enterprise has plummeted from a hefty 80.5% last year to 67.1%. In contrast, the adoption of Windows 11 has surged dramatically, rising from a mere 8.3% to an encouraging 23.1%. This change, albeit significant, still falls short of Microsoft's lofty goals set three years after the OS's launch.Interestingly, only 3.5% of Windows 10 devices are utilizing the Long Term Servicing Branch, implying that for many users, the upgrade to Windows 11 is unavoidable once support for Windows 10 fully lapses.
What’s Causing the Shift?
The initial sluggishness in adopting Windows 11 can be traced back to stringent hardware requirements, compounded by a natural reluctance to upgrade amidst a backdrop of global supply chain issues. For instance, in the early days after Windows 11's launch, many systems were found lacking; statistics showed that nearly half of Lansweeper’s respondents had devices that wouldn’t meet the new OS's CPU requirements.However, in a turn of events, it appears that as organizations phase out old hardware, there’s been an uptick in the market that allows for new devices equipped with Windows 11. Esben Dochy from Lansweeper noted that this current year's data indicates a nearly 15% increase in Windows 11 adoption—not necessarily because companies rushed to buy fresh hardware, but largely due to upgrades on existing PCs that can handle the newer OS.
Why Now?
As businesses eye the looming support deadline of Windows 10, the stakes have significantly risen. Many companies face regulatory compliance obligations that necessitate their migration before the deadline. Moreover, the findings align with other reports observing an acceleration in Windows 11 uptake, indicative of a gathering momentum among IT departments.So, why is the migration to Windows 11 now a critical focus? It boils down to an essential question of compliance and security. With cybersecurity risks at an all-time high, having updated operating systems is not merely a recommendation but a requirement for safeguarding sensitive data and adhering to internal policies or regulatory frameworks.
The Road Ahead
Though the latest statistics illustrate a promising trajectory, there is still considerable ground to cover. With millions of devices remaining on Windows 10, it is clear that a focused migration strategy is paramount. Organizations must proceed with urgency in addressing the hardware shortfalls and preparing for a seamless transition.In summary, as the countdown ticks on Windows 10's support, enterprises are realizing that adopting Windows 11 isn't just a technological upgrade; it's about future-proofing their operations and ensuring compliance with evolving standards. Windows 11's adoption rate may be climbing, but the journey is just beginning.
In this fast-paced tech landscape, the question on everyone’s mind is not whether to migrate, but when will your organization make the leap?
Summary
- Adoption Surge: Significant increase in Windows 11 usage from 8.3% to 23.1%.
- Deadline Awareness: Windows 10 support ends on October 14, 2025.
- Natural Cycles: Increased Windows 11 use attributed to hardware lifecycle and pre-installed devices.
- Compliance Focus: Migration is now essential for regulatory adherence and security.
Source: The Register Windows 11 migration? Upgrade engine revs up, enterprises have no choice