Upgrading to Windows 11: A Business Migration Guide

Windows 10 End of Support: What It Means for Your Business

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 reaches end of support on 14 October 2025. After this date, no more security patches, bug fixes, or technical support will be provided. For businesses — especially those in healthcare and professional services — running an unsupported operating system creates serious security and compliance risks.

Windows 11 Hardware Requirements

The biggest hurdle for many businesses is that Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor (8th gen Intel or Ryzen 2000+)
• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB+ recommended for business use)
• Storage: 64 GB minimum
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module version 2.0 (this is the main blocker for older hardware)
• UEFI Secure Boot capable firmware

Many business PCs purchased before 2018 won't meet these requirements — particularly the TPM 2.0 and processor generation requirements.

Planning Your Migration

Step 1: Audit Your Hardware

Check every PC and laptop in your organisation. Use Microsoft's PC Health Check app or run this PowerShell command to check TPM status:

Get-Tpm

Step 2: Budget for Replacements

Any machine that can't run Windows 11 needs replacing. For a typical medical practice with 10-15 workstations, expect to replace 30-50% of hardware.

Step 3: Check Application Compatibility

Verify that your critical software works on Windows 11:

• Clinical software (Best Practice, Medical Director, Genie)
• Accounting packages (MYOB, Xero desktop)
• Line-of-business applications
• Printers, scanners, and peripheral drivers

Step 4: Plan the Rollout

Don't upgrade every machine at once. Migrate in stages:

1. Test on one non-critical workstation first

2. Upgrade admin/reception PCs

3. Upgrade clinical workstations during quiet periods

4. Upgrade shared/communal PCs last

Step 5: Train Your Team

Windows 11 has a redesigned Start menu, taskbar, and Settings app. While the changes aren't dramatic, staff who've used Windows 10 for years will need time to adjust.

What About Extended Security Updates (ESU)?

Microsoft offers paid Extended Security Updates for Windows 10 — but only critical and important security patches, and at an escalating annual cost. ESU is a stopgap, not a long-term solution.

How SkyComm Handles Windows 11 Migrations

SkyComm manages the entire Windows 11 migration process for Perth businesses:

• Hardware audit and compatibility assessment
• Procurement of replacement PCs and laptops
• Data and application migration
• Windows 11 configuration and security hardening
• Microsoft 365 and Intune integration
• Staff orientation and support

We've already migrated hundreds of workstations across medical practices, law firms, and offices in Perth. Our approach ensures zero data loss and minimal disruption to your operations.

Ready to upgrade? Contact SkyComm on 1800 957 977 for a free migration assessment.