As the proverbial clock ticks down to October 2025, organizations face a tech dilemma: to upgrade or not to upgrade to Windows 11? This decision is not merely a matter of preference; it's a potential landmine of risks that could compound over time. With Microsoft indicating that around four million PCs in Australia alone are not ready for this critical transition, the urgency is palpable. Let's dive into the implications, compliance concerns, and strategic decisions every business must consider in light of the impending upgrade.
Consider the past few years when many organizations purchased new hardware without fully considering the longevity of these devices. If your company’s devices are in the four-year-old range or older, there's a strong chance they won’t support Windows 11. This could leave your business at a distinct disadvantage—missing out on critical security updates and productivity features that your competitors may readily adopt.
“When choosing new devices, think ahead,” emphasizes Khara. That foresight involves not only evaluating current machines but also considering how the company will leverage AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot+.
Moreover, companies should ascertain the most effective procurement model that aligns with their financial capabilities. Whether it’s a capital expenditure (CAPEX) model or an "as a service" approach, each organization will have unique needs to fulfill.
The bottom line? The perceived risks of upgrading may seem daunting, but the dangers associated with remaining on obsolete systems can far outweigh those challenges.
Will your organization take the leap forward, or will it choose to risk falling behind? The choice before you is not just about an operating system; it’s about future readiness in an ever-competitive landscape.
Source: iTnews Not moving to Windows 11 brings new risk to organisations
The Landscape of Legacy Systems
The backdrop for this vital upgrade isn’t just pure tech bluster; it’s closely tied to compliance and security requirements. As industry leaders like Lenovo’s Kirat Khara point out, not only does new software usher in a wave of productivity enhancements, but it also casts a long shadow of compliance risks. Beyond the standard technical evaluations, company directors are increasingly being held accountable for security incidents, making it crucial to use supported software to mitigate these risks.Consider the past few years when many organizations purchased new hardware without fully considering the longevity of these devices. If your company’s devices are in the four-year-old range or older, there's a strong chance they won’t support Windows 11. This could leave your business at a distinct disadvantage—missing out on critical security updates and productivity features that your competitors may readily adopt.
The Cost of Inaction
The risks of not upgrading extend beyond outdated technology. Organizations could potentially incur hefty fees for ongoing support of older operating systems, adding to operational costs already strained by the pandemic's economic aftermath. The missed opportunities associated with new productivity features can significantly hinder competitive advantage. In short, not moving to Windows 11 could effectively chain organizations to outdated software in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.AI Integration: A Key Factor
If businesses aim to weave AI capabilities into their operational fabric, the urgency intensifies. With the rapid emergence of Neural Processing Units (NPUs) in contemporary hardware, organizations must consider whether their existing machines can support this technology. Many outdated computers will lack the necessary specifications, leaving firms not just lagging in productivity but also in technological relevance.“When choosing new devices, think ahead,” emphasizes Khara. That foresight involves not only evaluating current machines but also considering how the company will leverage AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot+.
A Strategy-Centric Approach to Transition
Transitioning to Windows 11 should not be viewed solely as a technical project but rather a strategic initiative that initiates with a comprehensive assessment of the current IT environment. Organizations need to analyze existing hardware, evaluate legacy software compatibility, and plan software licensing requirements meticulously. A Windows 11 Proof of Concept can provide insights on the best approach to either repurpose or retire outdated hardware.Moreover, companies should ascertain the most effective procurement model that aligns with their financial capabilities. Whether it’s a capital expenditure (CAPEX) model or an "as a service" approach, each organization will have unique needs to fulfill.
The Partner Ecosystem Matters
The ecosystem surrounding IT, including distributors, channel partners, resellers, and vendors, will significantly influence how agencies transition to Windows 11. These partnerships are pivotal in mitigating challenges and fostering an environment ripe for successful upgrades.The bottom line? The perceived risks of upgrading may seem daunting, but the dangers associated with remaining on obsolete systems can far outweigh those challenges.
Conclusion: The Mandate to Upgrade
As the deadline approaches, organizations must recognize that the transition to Windows 11 isn’t merely a technical upgrade, but also a strategic imperative. For any business still lingering on older operating systems, the narrative is abundantly clear: the greater risk lies in inaction. Embracing this upgrade will not only bolster operational resilience but also prepare companies to fully harness the groundbreaking potential of AI and other emerging technologies.Will your organization take the leap forward, or will it choose to risk falling behind? The choice before you is not just about an operating system; it’s about future readiness in an ever-competitive landscape.
Source: iTnews Not moving to Windows 11 brings new risk to organisations
