In recent months, the landscape for Windows users has shifted in a way not seen for over a decade, as leading PC manufacturers—including Asus—have joined Microsoft, AMD, and Dell in encouraging, and in some respects warning, their customers to prepare for what is increasingly described as the "mandatory Windows 11 upgrade." While headlines may veer toward hyperbole, closer inspection reveals a convergence of technical, security, and business factors driving this coordinated push toward Windows 11, most acutely for those still running Windows 10, now approaching end-of-support status.
Earlier this year, Microsoft quietly but significantly updated its support documentation regarding CPU requirements for Windows 11, specifically its 24H2 release. While the change may have flown under the radar for casual users, the implications are substantial. Support pages now clearly enumerate the minimum viable CPUs by manufacturer—AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm—streamlining the process for users eager to ascertain whether their hardware will qualify for Copilot+ certification, Microsoft’s branding for the next-generation PC experience.
This move isn’t purely cosmetic. By delineating supported processors more transparently, Microsoft is smoothing the onramp to Windows 11’s AI features, particularly Copilot, and minimizing confusion as users prepare for large-scale upgrades or hardware purchases. The undisguised message: Windows 10’s runway is ending, not just in the form of vanished features, but with essential security updates set to be retired.
Recent examples highlight just how tangible these risks have become. The Lumma infostealer, for instance, managed to compromise nearly 400,000 systems worldwide in a short span—proof of the relentless pace of cyber threats targeting Windows environments. Asus cites such incidents in its guidance, specifically referencing downloaded Defender definitions for safe ISO installations and even vulnerabilities in historically trusted directories like Windows’ inetpub folder.
As the cybersecurity arms race escalates, vendors are clear: standing pat on Windows 10 exposes businesses and individuals to unacceptable risks, especially as attackers specifically target unsupported platforms.
Asus’s messaging is unequivocal: “What makes Windows 11 different? One word: Copilot.” Microsoft’s AI, now embedded at the OS level and surfacing across native and third-party apps, promises contextual help, code assistance, content generation, intelligent search, and workflow automation—a far cry from the piecemeal digital assistants of yesteryear. The promise? If your hardware is eligible (and certified for Copilot+), your PC will do more of the heavy lifting for you, often in ways that past Operating Systems could not natively offer.
Yet, while the benefits are enticing, this new paradigm also asks much of users: a willingness to entrust personal and company data to cloud-powered AI, regular connectivity, and acceptance of an ever-evolving OS driven by continuous updates.
As deadlines loom, large organizations are already embarking on staged rollouts, pilot testing critical apps, and retraining workforces to exploit Copilot’s potential or sandbox features as required. The pressure is not only to migrate, but to do so seamlessly, without incurring costly downtime or security lapses.
Microsoft’s ambition is clear: make Copilot the indispensable co-pilot for all tasks, from scheduling appointments to generating emails or coding scripts. The integration with Microsoft 365, Edge, and even niche apps like Notepad demonstrates the breadth of their vision. Yet, for the average family PC user, the day-to-day impact will depend on how much they leverage productivity tools and how comfortable they are with its AI recommendations.
Economically, upgrading isn’t always free—particularly for small businesses or schools with large fleets of borderline-incompatible systems. While Windows 11 itself is a free upgrade for most Windows 10 users, the indirect costs (downtime, new device procurement, training) must be factored in.
That means future upgrade “mandates” may become more routine, as significant advances in AI, security, or workflow management are shipped to only those on the most current—sometimes hardware-restricted—platforms. Businesses and users must plan not just for this upgrade, but for the next, adopting equipment, policies, and workflows able to evolve swiftly.
However, this shift isn’t without friction or cost. Some devices will be rendered obsolete before their time; some users will face an unavoidable learning curve or niche compatibility issues. A measured, stepwise approach is essential—backing up data, checking compatibility, planning for support.
Most importantly, this moment heralds a new normal for Windows computing: one where cloud and AI-powered features are becoming table stakes rather than add-ons, and staying secure, supported, and productive means keeping pace with the latest, not just the familiar.
In sum, as Asus, Microsoft, AMD, and Dell turn up the volume on Windows 11, their reasoning reflects both the perils and promises of the continually evolving PC ecosystem. For those who prepare thoughtfully, the upgrade can unlock new productivity and peace of mind. For those who ignore the chorus, the risks are no longer theoretical. The future, whether in the form of Copilot or the next AI leap, is arriving fast—and this time, readiness is indeed mandatory.
Source: Neowin Asus joins Microsoft, AMD, Dell, urges you to "prepare for mandatory Windows 11 upgrade"
Windows 11 24H2: What’s Changed and Why It Matters
Earlier this year, Microsoft quietly but significantly updated its support documentation regarding CPU requirements for Windows 11, specifically its 24H2 release. While the change may have flown under the radar for casual users, the implications are substantial. Support pages now clearly enumerate the minimum viable CPUs by manufacturer—AMD, Intel, and Qualcomm—streamlining the process for users eager to ascertain whether their hardware will qualify for Copilot+ certification, Microsoft’s branding for the next-generation PC experience.This move isn’t purely cosmetic. By delineating supported processors more transparently, Microsoft is smoothing the onramp to Windows 11’s AI features, particularly Copilot, and minimizing confusion as users prepare for large-scale upgrades or hardware purchases. The undisguised message: Windows 10’s runway is ending, not just in the form of vanished features, but with essential security updates set to be retired.
End of the Road for Windows 10: Security and Real-World Risks
No matter how comfortable Windows 10 may feel, its end-of-support date is becoming an unavoidable reality. Asus, a top-five global PC manufacturer, echoes the refrain from Microsoft and its partners, outlining how users who remain on Windows 10 will soon do so at increasing peril. The most pressing danger? The loss of regular security updates. Without them, vulnerabilities will go unpatched, effectively leaving systems open to new malware campaigns, ransomware, and zero-day attacks.Recent examples highlight just how tangible these risks have become. The Lumma infostealer, for instance, managed to compromise nearly 400,000 systems worldwide in a short span—proof of the relentless pace of cyber threats targeting Windows environments. Asus cites such incidents in its guidance, specifically referencing downloaded Defender definitions for safe ISO installations and even vulnerabilities in historically trusted directories like Windows’ inetpub folder.
As the cybersecurity arms race escalates, vendors are clear: standing pat on Windows 10 exposes businesses and individuals to unacceptable risks, especially as attackers specifically target unsupported platforms.
The Copilot Revolution: Windows 11’s Defining Feature
What truly distinguishes Windows 11 from its predecessor, according to Microsoft and now Asus, is the deep integration of AI—personified by Copilot. This AI assistant, often positioned as the next evolution beyond Cortana or even Google Assistant, is intended to streamline both everyday and advanced workflows. Its pitch is simple: describe what you want, and Copilot will do it.Asus’s messaging is unequivocal: “What makes Windows 11 different? One word: Copilot.” Microsoft’s AI, now embedded at the OS level and surfacing across native and third-party apps, promises contextual help, code assistance, content generation, intelligent search, and workflow automation—a far cry from the piecemeal digital assistants of yesteryear. The promise? If your hardware is eligible (and certified for Copilot+), your PC will do more of the heavy lifting for you, often in ways that past Operating Systems could not natively offer.
Yet, while the benefits are enticing, this new paradigm also asks much of users: a willingness to entrust personal and company data to cloud-powered AI, regular connectivity, and acceptance of an ever-evolving OS driven by continuous updates.
Industry Consensus: Why All the Urgency Now?
Asus’s latest guidance isn’t unique; it mirrors sentiment from other major players such as Dell and AMD. There is a coordinated industry drive encouraging users to upgrade sooner rather than later. The rationales, as they repeat in blog posts and customer outreach, are crystal clear:- Security: Staying current is not just good practice, it’s essential hazard mitigation. Unsupported Windows versions, by definition, become more vulnerable over time, not less.
- Productivity: Windows 11’s UI and Copilot integration can streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and unlock new AI-powered features for content creators, developers, and power users alike.
- Performance and Efficiency: For supported, modern hardware, Windows 11 can leverage advances such as DirectStorage, improved battery management, and faster file operations.
- Support and Compliance: Enterprises, in particular, rely on vendor-backed support for both compliance and operational guarantees. Transitioning early (rather than at the last minute) reduces disruption and support gaps.
Inside Asus’s Upgrade Playbook: Preparation and User Guidance
In its public communications, Asus emphasizes preparedness over panic. The company’s blog posts detail a phased approach to the Windows 11 transition:1. Pre-Upgrade Checklist
- Backups: Users are urged to make comprehensive backups of critical data. While Windows upgrades generally preserve files, glitches do happen, and a backup remains the best insurance policy.
- Compatibility Checks: Asus steers customers to Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool and its own hardware compatibility lists, updated to reflect the latest CPU requirements.
- Software Inventory: Not all applications are guaranteed to run on Windows 11. Asus recommends compiling a list of essential apps and verifying their compatibility.
2. During the Upgrade
- Connectivity: A stable Internet connection is required, especially for downloading large feature updates and for activating AI-powered features post-upgrade.
- Monitoring: Users are advised to watch for any error messages or compatibility warnings mid-upgrade, reporting issues to Asus or Microsoft support promptly.
3. Post-Upgrade Steps
- Driver Updates: After upgrading, installing or updating chipset, graphics, and peripheral drivers is essential for performance and stability.
- Feature Exploration: Asus provides onboarding resources, highlighting new features—from Copilot to virtual desktops—so users can adapt quickly.
- Security Settings: Rechecking firewall, antivirus, and privacy settings ensures configurations remain as desired following system-wide changes.
The Case for and Against an Immediate Upgrade
While the refrain to upgrade is growing louder, not every user should rush to click “update now.” The reality is nuanced, and a critical look is warranted.Strengths and Opportunities
- Security First: The end of security updates for Windows 10 leaves users indisputably more vulnerable. Upgrading to a supported OS is, simply put, best practice—especially as new attack vectors emerge every month.
- Transformative Productivity: Early reviews of Copilot and Windows 11’s integrated AI tools point to real efficiency gains for everyday users, not just techies. For many, features like contextual task suggestions, real-time document summarization, or AI-driven troubleshooting can save countless hours.
- Hardware Utilization: Newer processors, SSDs, and RAM configurations are purpose-built for Windows 11’s multitasking, virtualization, and AI workloads. Owners of such devices tangibly benefit from the optimizations present in the latest OS build.
- Future-Proofing: For businesses governed by security, privacy, or support compliance, early migration allows time to adapt workflows, retrain staff, and address legacy bottlenecks—well before the security-impacting deadline.
Potential Risks and Drawbacks
- Legacy Hardware Exclusion: Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Windows 11 is its stricter hardware requirements. Many systems that run Windows 10 smoothly are simply ineligible for 11 due to older CPUs or lack of TPM 2.0. Users with such equipment must weigh the cost of hardware upgrades against the risk of sticking with unsupported software.
- Compatibility Hiccups: Although Microsoft and OEMs have invested heavily in ensuring app and driver compatibility, issues still surface, particularly with specialized or custom enterprise software. Even consumer devices, such as older printers or unique peripherals, may experience problems.
- Learning Curve: While many changes are incremental and intuitive, the adoption of Copilot and deeper AI integration requires adjustment—and, for some, a willingness to trust the accuracy and security of AI-powered features.
- Privacy Concerns: The Copilot model relies on cloud-based AI processing. For companies with strict data residency or privacy requirements, this is more than a footnote. Some may opt to restrict Copilot, limiting one of Windows 11’s headline capabilities.
- Unforeseen Bugs: Like any large-scale OS upgrade, inevitable “teething problems” emerge. Some users report issues post-upgrade: driver conflicts, software incompatibility, or battery drain on laptops. Although these are being addressed incrementally, they remain part of the real-world upgrade landscape.
Enterprises on the Clock: The Steeper Stakes
For individual consumers, the question of when to upgrade can be a matter of convenience. For businesses, the calculus is more complex—and the stakes far higher. Operating an unsupported OS can negate cyber-insurance, violate certain regulatory requirements, and expose sensitive data. Enterprise IT decision-makers must weigh not just the technical readiness, but also the broader operational impact. Notably, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 beyond its mainline end-of-support date—but at escalating cost and complexity, making it an unattractive long-term solution.As deadlines loom, large organizations are already embarking on staged rollouts, pilot testing critical apps, and retraining workforces to exploit Copilot’s potential or sandbox features as required. The pressure is not only to migrate, but to do so seamlessly, without incurring costly downtime or security lapses.
Consumer Perspective: Is Copilot the Killer Feature?
For home users, the Windows 11 proposition is wrapped in the promise of Copilot and improved ease of use. But is Copilot truly a must-have? Independent reviews and user feedback are beginning to trickle in, and the early verdict is that Copilot is an impressive assistant—especially for content creators, students, and power users. However, the AI is still learning, and adoption among casual users is in its infancy.Microsoft’s ambition is clear: make Copilot the indispensable co-pilot for all tasks, from scheduling appointments to generating emails or coding scripts. The integration with Microsoft 365, Edge, and even niche apps like Notepad demonstrates the breadth of their vision. Yet, for the average family PC user, the day-to-day impact will depend on how much they leverage productivity tools and how comfortable they are with its AI recommendations.
Environmental and Economic Footnotes: The Cost of Progress
One under-discussed aspect of the Windows 11 upgrade “mandate” is its environmental impact. With a sizeable portion of existing PCs incapable of meeting 11’s requirements, millions of perfectly functional machines risk being sidelined in favor of new purchases. For environmentally conscious consumers and businesses aiming to lower e-waste, this is a dilemma. Major OEMs, including Asus, are simultaneously promoting device trade-in and recycling programs, striving to soften the blow. But it remains an open question if the push for Copilot+ hardware will significantly accelerate hardware refresh cycles, and, if so, at what cost to the planet.Economically, upgrading isn’t always free—particularly for small businesses or schools with large fleets of borderline-incompatible systems. While Windows 11 itself is a free upgrade for most Windows 10 users, the indirect costs (downtime, new device procurement, training) must be factored in.
Looking Ahead: Copilot, Compliance, and Continuous Upgrades
The increasing cadence at which Microsoft and its partners are nudging, and soon compelling, users to upgrade offers a preview of things to come. Windows, once stable for a decade or more between major versions, now follows a cycle closer to that of smartphones: frequent updates, cloud-first features, and ever-tighter ties between software and hardware capabilities.That means future upgrade “mandates” may become more routine, as significant advances in AI, security, or workflow management are shipped to only those on the most current—sometimes hardware-restricted—platforms. Businesses and users must plan not just for this upgrade, but for the next, adopting equipment, policies, and workflows able to evolve swiftly.
Bottom Line: Should You Prepare for Mandatory Windows 11?
For most users, the answer is yes—with caveats. The end of Windows 10 support is a serious security event, not mere marketing spin. The advantages of Windows 11, from Copilot’s AI to under-the-hood performance and security improvements, are real for those with compatible hardware. OEMs like Asus aren’t just advancing their commercial interests; they’re responding to the evolving demands of the threat landscape.However, this shift isn’t without friction or cost. Some devices will be rendered obsolete before their time; some users will face an unavoidable learning curve or niche compatibility issues. A measured, stepwise approach is essential—backing up data, checking compatibility, planning for support.
Most importantly, this moment heralds a new normal for Windows computing: one where cloud and AI-powered features are becoming table stakes rather than add-ons, and staying secure, supported, and productive means keeping pace with the latest, not just the familiar.
In sum, as Asus, Microsoft, AMD, and Dell turn up the volume on Windows 11, their reasoning reflects both the perils and promises of the continually evolving PC ecosystem. For those who prepare thoughtfully, the upgrade can unlock new productivity and peace of mind. For those who ignore the chorus, the risks are no longer theoretical. The future, whether in the form of Copilot or the next AI leap, is arriving fast—and this time, readiness is indeed mandatory.
Source: Neowin Asus joins Microsoft, AMD, Dell, urges you to "prepare for mandatory Windows 11 upgrade"
