It feels like all we’ve done recently is talk about upgrading to Windows 11, but it really is time to start thinking about making a plan for migrating all your organization’s devices. After all, Windows 10, the operating system your PCs are currently running on, is set to reach end-of-life on October 14, 2025, which is coming up sooner than you think.
However, we also know you might not know exactly what your options are for successfully upgrading your device to Windows 11. That’s why our experts have outlined two paths you could take to Windows 11 as well as what the process would look like if you partner with an MSP like Netrio.
Options for Upgrading to Windows 11
In short, there are two ways you could successfully migrate your and your organization’s devices to Windows 11: Upgrading your existing computers or purchasing new devices with Windows 11 already installed.
Option 1: Upgrade your existing operating system
You may be prompted to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 automatically, and if your device is less than two years old, you may be eligible to do that via an in-place upgrade. However, in addition to the age of your device, you’ll also want to confirm it meets all the following hardware components required for Windows 11:
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- Compatible 64-bit processor
- Central processing unit of 8th generation or newer for Intel Core i-Series or 2nd generation or newer for AMD Ryzen
This is often the most likely reason for why an in-place upgrade to Windows 11 is not possible, so if you’re not sure if your device meets the necessary requirements, work with IT to plan your next steps. However, you can learn more about how to check the hardware components of your current device yourself here.
Option #2: Purchase new devices
Since it’s possible your current devices don’t qualify for an upgrade to Windows 11, your other option is to purchase new laptops or PCs with Windows 11 already installed. Some of our baseline recommendations for devices include:
- Professional or Enterprise operating system(s)
- i5 processor or better (i7, i9, etc.) – current generation or not more than 2 generations old
- 16 gigabytes of RAM
- Solid-state drive (SSD)
Process for Upgrading to Windows 11
If you determine your device meets all the necessary hardware requirements to perform the upgrade yourself, you certainly may do so. However, if you do decide to pursue that option, we strongly recommend you start by upgrading just one device as a test. If the upgrade isn’t successful, or the process doesn’t go smoothly, you’ll need to work with either your internal IT team or the MSP with which you partner to have them complete the work for you. If you’re partnered with Netrio, the process would then consist of the following steps:
- Evaluation: Netrio will review your current PCs to verify hardware compatibility with Windows 11.
- Planning: Based on our findings, we will develop a plan tailored to your needs that minimizes downtime and ensures all the resources and equipment we need can be acquired efficiently.
- Implementation: Our team will perform the upgrade and configure the devices accordingly, ensuring a seamless transition of your settings, applications, and data.
- Support: After the upgrade, we will provide ongoing support to promptly address any questions or issues.
Ready to upgrade to Windows 11?
The Netrio team is here to make your team’s transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as seamless as possible. If you’re ready to get started, contact us today, and our team will help you develop a plan for making the switch sooner rather than later, ensuring that your business can continue to operate with devices that are up-to-date, protected, and secure.
