IT Service Provider Tips: 5 Options & 1 Week to Upgrade Win10

Microsoft has announced that it will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Consequently, you will no longer get security updates, bug fixes, or new features. This implies that if you fail to upgrade your computer before that date, it will be exposed to online threats, program compatibility issues, and performance issues.

If you're still on Windows 10, either as a company or an individual, you should take the initiative to upgrade now. Fortunately, panicking is not necessary when a trusted IT service provider like Guru IT Services is available. 

There are several reasonable steps you can take to stay productive and secure, such as contacting an IT service provider, following the upgrade, or discontinuing the use of Microsoft. In all of these hassles, you might get confused and make the most challenging and bad decision. Then, what to do?

Contact Guru IT Services, a reputable IT service provider, and mitigate your confusion.

Option 1: Upgrade to Windows 11 (if your PC is supported)

The easiest option is to upgrade your existing PC to Windows 11. Microsoft is upgrading it for free on the majority of supported machines. Before you make a decision, ensure your hardware matches the minimum requirements for Windows 11:

• A supported 64-bit processor

• 4GB RAM (8GB for the best experience)

• 64GB or more of storage

• TPM 2.0

• Secure Boot

If your computer is eligible, you can do a direct upgrade from Windows Update within Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Just look for the upgrade availability.

Pros: Free (to most individuals), leaves apps/files unchanged, adds new capabilities, and enhances security.

Cons: Some older computers will not qualify for the upgrade, and the new interface may be unfamiliar.

Option 2: Purchase a New Windows 11 Computer

If your system won't support Windows 11, purchasing a new computer is a more long-term solution for success. The majority of new desktops and laptops ship with Windows 11 already installed, placing you firmly within the supported timeframe for many years to come.

This is also a good alternative for companies. Old hardware often leads to slow performance, downtime, and recurring IT issues. Upgrading systems can help reduce security threats and be utilized in conjunction with your staff to enhance productivity. Most business IT services suggest replacing computers every 4–5 years due to these factors.

Pros: Future-proof, improved performance, and new hardware.

Cons: Increased upfront cost.

Option 3: Migrate to Windows 365

Another alternative is to migrate to Windows 365, which is Microsoft's cloud-based computing solution for PCs. Under Windows 365, your desktop is in the cloud, and you can link any device to log in using your credentials, including tablets, laptops, or smartphones, to access your desktop easily.

This option is particularly useful for companies seeking flexible working arrangements. It enables employees to securely log in and access their work setup remotely from any location, without the constraint of a physical computer.

Pros: Anywhere access, scalable, secure, perfect for remote teams

Cons: Monthly fee, an internet connection is necessary

Option 4: Switch to Another Operating System

If a move to Windows 11 is not possible, you may want to look at other operating systems, including Linux or macOS (found on Apple computers). Linux is a free, lightweight, and secure operating system to consider; however, it does require more technical skill for initial setup and configuration. Moreover, Linux is not always compatible with certain software you may already be using.

Pros: Cost control, flexibility, security.

Cons: Higher learning curves with required training, not compatible with most of the popular Windows applications.

Option 5: Keep Windows 10 (not advisable)

You can technically continue to use Windows 10 long after Microsoft stops providing support for it. But this is the riskiest option. This is not only outdated but also at risk of being hacked, infected by malware, and experiencing system crashes due to not receiving the latest OS updates and patches.

Some businesses offer long-term support for a fee, including third-party patches; however, this is not typically viable in the long run and is normally costly. Usually, companies that pursue this route have a strong reliance on services for IT experts capable of making almost incessant monitoring of computers/server systems, protecting everything from setting up firewalls to watching traffic coming into and going out of their networks.

Pros: No modifications necessary in the near future.

Cons: Security threats and possible inability to stay current with software patches.

Business Considerations

Transition planning is necessary for businesses. Though extremely effective, that's why so many businesses hire a trusted IT service provider; such as- Guru IT Services; when upgrade time comes along:

• Seamless Transition: Transferring data without loss or downtime.

• Compatibility Test: Having core applications run correctly on the newer architecture.

• Cybersecurity: Installing your PC with the right equipment to protect the new architecture.

• Employee Training: Properly addressing relevant new features with stakeholders.

Conclusions

With just a week left for Windows 10 end of support, it is likely time to determine your upgrade process. Generally, for companies, the ideal neighborhood choice is likely to involve utilizing a reputable IT service provider like- Guru IT Services to manage and market the process.