The following article was provided by TechRISK Solutions. It is posted here with permission.
Microsoft has set a definitive timeline for the end of support for Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019, which will take effect on October 14, 2025. This announcement signals a pivotal moment for businesses that may not yet be prepared for this transition, potentially leading to significant operational challenges.
For those who may not be fully aware, the term ‘end of support’ means that while Windows 10 computers will continue to operate post-deadline, Microsoft will cease to provide essential updates. This includes critical security patches, firewall enhancements, and necessary programming fixes for vital network communication services. Over time, the absence of these updates could render systems increasingly vulnerable to operational failures and cyber threats. Furthermore, as software packages evolve, there is a risk that essential company applications may no longer function on outdated machines.
Options for Upgrading
If your current hardware meets the minimum requirements, upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 may be an option at no additional cost. Microsoft offers a compatibility tool that can be downloaded to assess your machine’s readiness. However, it’s important to note that devices that barely meet the requirements may experience performance issues, which could hinder productivity.
Replacing all office computers may not be necessary. A well-considered migration strategy can help minimize costs while catering to your company’s specific needs. For instance, many offices choose to invest in new machines for power users while redistributing older devices to less demanding roles. This approach necessitates careful inventory management and may require professional assistance to securely transfer or clear data from each device.
Opening the Closet Door
While the focus thus far has been on Windows 10 workstations, companies utilizing older Server 2019 infrastructure face even greater challenges. The rapid advancement of server technologies can make planning for future upgrades feel overwhelming. Our recommendation is to keep the process straightforward: concentrate on your business needs and strategize for the next five years. This will help avoid unnecessary expenditures on high-end technology and ensure that attention is directed toward the details that truly matter.
Here are some valuable server upgrade tips based on experience:
- Don’t Reinvent the Wheel: Avoid the temptation to start from scratch. If you have multiple servers, consider consolidating their functionalities. It’s often more efficient to add new servers and migrate files and services before decommissioning older systems.
- Virtual doesn’t mean “Cloud”: Investing in a physical server doesn’t limit you to a single unit. Companies can utilize physical servers to host their own virtual systems, allowing for the operation of multiple server instances, improved backup capabilities, and enhanced infrastructure mobility in case of emergencies.
- Understand your growth: Reflect on your company’s growth over the past three years. Consider how many new employees or desks you’ve added, your data storage usage, and the longevity of your backups. Recognizing trends will enable you to make informed investments in your infrastructure.
- Redundancy is key: Prioritize uptime by assessing past technology outages and their impact on employee productivity. Consider the duration of typical fixes, the cost of downtime, and the criticality of your files and data. Frequent backups are essential; evaluate how long it would take to restore files and recreate any lost data.
About the author: Ryan Dwyer is a co-founder and partner at TechRISK Solutions, bringing decades of technical expertise to the business.
