SMEs Must Act Fast: Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11 & AI-Powered PCs

As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support deadline in October, a significant moment of transformation and challenge is unfolding across the global IT landscape, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The coming transition to Windows 11 is often heralded by industry analysts and hardware vendors alike as a catalyst for PC upgrades and renewed hardware investment. Yet, beneath headline figures and market optimism, the realities facing SMEs are complex and demand a nuanced, multi-layered response from the channel community—the network of resellers, integrators, and IT advisors who guide, sell, and support technology solutions for organizations of all sizes.

The End of Windows 10: More Than Just a Refresh Cycle​

Historically, the hardware channel has understood operating system transitions as routine milestones spurring device refresh cycles. This time, however, the move off Windows 10 signals a deeper shift. According to joint research from Dell Technologies and Intel, a full 71% of IT decision-makers now view the move to Windows 11 as an opportunity not just for a standard upgrade, but for a strategic overhaul of their PC estates. It's a recognition that, beyond simple compliance, organizations are positioning technology to form the bedrock of competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
What’s new in this cycle is the potent combination of two simultaneous forces: the looming withdrawal of Windows 10 support by Microsoft, and the promise of AI-powered PCs poised to redefine workplace productivity and security.

AI Readiness: Critical for Today’s Organizations​

A headline finding from the Dell and Intel 'Windows 11 and AI PC readiness report' is that 64% of UK-based IT decision-makers now see the ability to run AI applications as “critical or extremely critical” for their organizations. This data highlights a widespread, and sometimes urgent, desire to leverage AI for enhanced security and amplified staff productivity. The report details tangible benefits: improved threat detection, streamlined workflows, and smarter automation are among the chief draws attracting business leaders to the new generation of AI PCs.
"For our channel partners, the conversation with customers is no longer about refresh cycles; it's about building competitive advantage," notes Ian Heath, UK channel and distribution lead for Dell Technologies. By viewing AI PCs not just as products to sell, but as platforms for value-added services—think strategic deployment, security hardening, and advanced workflow integration—the channel is urged to elevate its role from supplier to indispensable business advisor.

The Lagging Edge: SMEs and the Transition Challenge​

Despite strong headwinds for technological renewal, the research paints a nuanced picture of readiness across the market. Only a quarter (25%) of organizations have fully transitioned away from Windows 10, while another 44% are currently in progress, attempting to avoid the looming end-of-life cliff. Alarmingly, 20% of customers have yet to start any migration efforts at all.
The inertia is most pronounced among the smallest firms—those with under 50 staff—who, research shows, are not only the least likely to have begun transitioning, but also the most in need of proactive channel support. Several reasons underpin this hesitancy:

• Resource constraints: Smaller organizations often lack in-house IT expertise and must juggle limited budgets.
• Awareness gaps: Many are less attuned to security implications or the full extent of support withdrawal.
• Cost-benefit uncertainty: SMEs question the ROI of switching to AI PCs without tangible proof of immediate business impact.

“In addition to losing technical support, inaction means businesses may rely on less secure devices that can’t keep up with the latest applications,” cautions Louise Quennell, UK senior director of Client Solutions Group at Dell Technologies. This is a stark warning—unsupported devices are a well-known vector for cyber threats, often lacking patches for emerging vulnerabilities, and their performance lags behind rapidly evolving software requirements.

Security Risks: The Hidden Cost of Delay​

The risks associated with remaining on Windows 10 after official support ceases are clear and severe:

• Loss of vital security updates means that known vulnerabilities will accumulate, making devices an easy target for malware and ransomware.
• Lack of technical support can quickly escalate minor issues into critical business interruptions.
• Non-compliance risks may emerge, especially in regulated sectors where up-to-date systems are a compliance requirement.
• Incompatibility with new software and peripherals further restricts businesses' ability to grow and adapt.

These risks are not theoretical; the increased frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks against unsupported systems have been extensively reported across industry sources and government cybersecurity advisories.

AI PCs and Hardware Refresh: The Market Perspective​

While the channel has long banked on OS migrations to nudge hardware sales, the AI PC revolution presents a genuinely new opportunity. Medium and large enterprises have embraced the shift as a moment to overhaul their device portfolios, often favoring hardware engineered with dedicated AI acceleration—such as neural processing units (NPUs)—to unlock the full spectrum of next-generation applications.
Analyst firms like Canalys and Context point to a “twin-motivation” effect: the pressure of end-of-support from Microsoft, coupled with the pull of AI innovation, is driving a resurgence in the global PC hardware market. Canalys projects a 5.8% increase in global PC shipments for the year, expecting volumes to reach 272 million units. Already, Q1 and Q2 of the year have seen impressive 9% and 7.4% year-on-year growth, respectively, signaling a market in clear resurgence, fueled by organizations seeking both compliance and competitive edge.

The Role of the Channel: From Supplier to Strategic Partner​

Channel partners face a unique opportunity—and responsibility—as this transition wave accelerates. No longer can IT resellers rely solely on the "box-moving" model of hardware sales. Instead, the new value proposition centers on advisory services: guiding clients through complex choices, delivering tailored migration strategies, and supporting change management initiatives.
Three key areas are emerging as central to channel success:

1. Education and Awareness​

With a significant subset of SMEs lagging in their transition, foundational education remains critical. Channel partners must demystify:

• The practical and financial risks of staying on Windows 10 after EOL
• The business case for investing in AI-optimized hardware
• The downstream impacts on compliance, productivity, and security

Customized seminars, migration workshops, and targeted communications can help bridge awareness gaps and drive urgency.

2. Migration Planning and Execution​

Moving to Windows 11—and AI PCs in particular—can be daunting for resource-stretched SMEs. The best channel programs are those that offer comprehensive planning, from initial audits of device readiness through to post-migration training and support. Key elements include:

• Asset discovery: Identifying which devices can be upgraded versus those requiring replacement
• Security audits: Addressing legacy vulnerabilities and implementing modern endpoint security
• Workforce enablement: Ensuring staff can leverage new features, especially AI-powered workflows

For the smallest firms, fully managed migration packages may prove especially appealing, providing predictable costs and peace-of-mind for time-strapped managers.

3. Long-Term Support and Strategic Advisory​

Successful migration is about more than simply moving to a supported OS. Forward-looking channel partners are embedding themselves as long-term advisors, offering continuing support, regular security health checks, and strategic IT planning aligned to business goals. This not only opens new recurring revenue streams but also cements the partner’s indispensable role in the client’s digital journey.

Barriers and Bottlenecks: A Cautious View​

Despite positive market momentum, several potential bottlenecks could prevent the transition from reaching its full potential:

• Supply chain constraints: Surges in demand for AI-capable PCs could outstrip supply, leading to extended lead times and pricing volatility.
• Skills gaps: Both within SMEs and among smaller channel partners, the rapid pace of AI development makes hiring and retaining knowledgeable staff a challenge.
• Economic uncertainty: Wider macroeconomic headwinds may force SMEs to delay or downsize planned investments, especially if the cost/ROI case isn’t crystal clear.
• Application readiness: Not all software used by SMEs is currently optimized for AI or even Windows 11, increasing transitional friction and possible disruption.

These factors underline the importance of flexible planning, clear communication, and continued investment in channel partner development.

The Road Ahead: Recommendations for SMEs and Their Channel Partners​

To ensure a secure, productive, and future-ready IT environment, SMEs and their channel advisers should consider the following approach:

For SMEs​

• Start the assessment process now. Audit your existing PC fleet for Windows 11 compatibility and map out what needs replacement versus what can be upgraded.
• Prioritize security and compliance. Understand the risks that come with remaining on unsupported OSs—not just from a technical standpoint, but regulatory as well.
• Engage with expert advisors. Leverage the expertise of channel partners who can guide through the complexity of the transition, from strategic planning to hands-on support.
• Consider the business case for AI. Even if cautious about first-mover advantage, review how AI-powered features could drive efficiency, improve customer service, or automate mundane tasks.

For Channel Partners​

• Ramp up SME-specific education campaigns. Use language, scenarios, and business cases that resonate with resource-constrained organizations.
• Design easy-to-consume migration services. Emphasize affordability, predictability, and ongoing support, not just one-off sales.
• Develop AI use-case playbooks. Practical demonstrations of how AI PCs can deliver ROI—such as voice-enabled support, document summarization, or security automation—will help move wary SMEs off the fence.
• Establish vendor collaborations. Work closely with vendors like Dell, Intel, and Microsoft to ensure the best product availability and technical support pipeline.

Conclusion: A Moment of Opportunity—And Risk​

The end-of-life for Windows 10 is both a moment of risk and opportunity for SMEs. While the march toward Windows 11 and AI-enabled PCs is gathering pace among larger organizations, a sizable minority—especially among the smallest enterprises—remain at risk of falling behind, with all the security and operational challenges that implies.
For the channel, this presents a rare window to reposition their business model: evolving from product supplier to strategic advisor, educator, and long-term partner. It’s a transformation that will require investment, new skills, and above all, a focus on building trust and delivering practical value.
The end-of-support deadline is non-negotiable, and cyberthreats will not wait for stragglers. The time to plan and act is now—preferably with a trusted advisor at your side—to ensure your organization doesn’t just survive the transition, but thrives in this new era of AI-driven productivity and security.
As the global PC market signals its strongest growth in years, those who seize the initiative—whether as end-users or channel partners—will be well-placed to reap the most enduring rewards. The critical question for every SME is simple: will you be ready? The choice, as always, is yours.

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Source: Computer Weekly SMEs need channel help moving off Windows 10 | Microscope