Windows 11 will not be quite as dramatic of an upgrade as Windows 10 was compared to the previous version. However, it does pack a big productivity boost. It is also more collaborative and accessible than earlier versions of Windows.
The operating system that runs your company’s hardware is a vital part of any IT infrastructure. It is the foundation that all other work builds upon. So, it is important that it makes work easy for users and is consistent across the entire organization.
According to Microsoft, the upgrade to Windows 11 is due to roll out around the holidays. However, some eagle-eyed users think that it could be as early as October due to the October 2021 date included in promotional product images.
All Windows 11 images are from Microsoft
Regardless of whether it comes out in October or December, there is only a short time to get ready if you want to hit the ground running so that your team can start enjoying all of the new productive features.
Getting Ready for the Windows 11 Launch
Now is the time to start initiating your preparations for a Windows 11 upgrade at your company. We have a step-by-step guide to get you started.
Review PCs for Windows 11 Requirements
Some great news for users and business owners is that Windows 11 is a free upgrade for anyone that has Windows 10. However, you will need to ensure that all of your workstations and laptops have the minimum system requirements to accept the upgrade.
Windows 11 Minimum System Requirements include:
- Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip
- Memory: 4 GM RAM
- Storage: 64 GB or larger
- System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot compatible
- TPM: Trusted Platform Module version 2.0
- Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics
- Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p)
- Also required: Internet connection
You don't need to go looking for all of those separate components on your PCs. There is a faster way that you can check computer compatibility. Just download and run Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool on each PC and it will tell you in a few seconds if that system is compatible with the upgrade.
If any systems are not compatible, you will need to decide on a plan. There are two options that you will have:
- Upgrade components of the PC to meet minimum system requirements (if possible).
- Replace the computer.
Budget for Computer Replacements for Older Systems
If a computer is older and it is not compatible with Windows 11, you should strongly consider replacing it. Once PCs get past about 4 years, they begin to become problematic and can end up costing you more in annual maintenance costs than the price of a new computer.
If you upgrade before the end of the year, you can take certain technology and hardware tax deductions on your 2021 taxes.
Review Compatibility With All Software That You Use
If you are using custom or legacy software for your business, you don’t want to have any unpleasant surprises when you upgrade to Windows 11. Make sure to check all software now for compatibility with Windows 11 so that you can make any needed adjustments before you upgrade.
Become Familiar With the New Features
Windows 11 is all about productivity and improving the user experience. It is an upgrade built for business and designed to boost efficiency.
You will want to become familiar with the key new features that can help your employees do more in less time. Schedule an overview with Sound Computers. We can help you review the new features and decide which ones to promote to your team to enhance their workflows before you upgrade.
Key features of Windows 11 include:
- Snap layouts to quickly fit 2 to 4 windows on the screen at once
- Native Microsoft Teams integration for quick calls, chats and video calls
- Teams support for cross-platform chat (including SMS)
- Curated feed powered by widgets
- Customizable virtual desktops to keep work organized
- Simplified Start menu with pinned apps
- More accessibility features like customizable system sounds
- Windows Voice Typing for transcription that automatically punctuates
Pre-Schedule Your Upgrade to Ensure Priority Timing
Windows 11 is coming out later this year. If you want to upgrade as soon as possible, you should pre-schedule your upgrade.
Pre-scheduling a managed upgrade experience with Sound Computers can ensure that you get priority timing for your company.
Get Help Preparing for Your Windows 11 Upgrade Now
Don’t put off preparing for a Windows 11 upgrade. Sound Computers can help your Connecticut business with all of the necessary steps so that your team will be ready to hit the ground running when the update is released.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Call 860-577-8060 or reach us online.