Should You Upgrade to Windows 11 Before Windows 10 End of Support?
Microsoft has recently been pushing strongly—through notifications, emails, and frequent reminders—about making the Windows 11 Upgrade. You’ve probably seen alerts popping up on your desktop or messages arriving in your inbox urging you to consider upgrading or migrating away from Windows 10. While these persistent nudges from Microsoft highlight important upcoming changes, they might also leave you feeling pressured or confused about whether now truly is the right moment to switch.
Before you jump into a Windows 11 Upgrade, it’s essential to carefully evaluate whether the timing aligns with your business or personal computing needs. Microsoft’s consistent messaging makes it clear they’re eager for users to transition, but it’s crucial to make an informed decision based on compatibility, hardware readiness, and how critical ongoing support is for your specific situation.
According to Microsoft, Windows 10 End of Support (EOS) is scheduled for October 14, 2025.
Learn More: Windows 10 End of Support Details
But, is now the right time to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? The answer is, well, maybe.
Three Key Considerations Before Upgrading:
- Current PC Suitability:
- If your current Windows 10 PC is relatively recent, meets your ongoing needs, and your software applications continue supporting Windows 10 (hint: most will for some time), then why rush? It might be smarter to wait until you’re naturally ready for a new computer.
- TPM 2.0 Hardware Requirements:
- Microsoft recently eased the TPM 2.0 requirements for Windows 11 upgrades. TPM, or Trusted Platform Module, is a specialized hardware chip integrated into modern computers, designed to provide enhanced security by handling sensitive tasks, such as encryption, secure boot, and storing authentication keys securely. TPM 2.0 is the latest version of this security standard, and Microsoft initially required it as mandatory hardware for installing Windows 11 to ensure optimal protection against modern cyber threats, such as ransomware and unauthorized access.
- Due to concerns that strict TPM 2.0 enforcement would prevent many otherwise capable computers from upgrading to Windows 11, Microsoft recently relaxed these hardware restrictions. This adjustment means that even computers lacking full TPM 2.0 compatibility, but meeting other hardware criteria, can now potentially upgrade to Windows 11.
- If your current hardware qualifies under these relaxed guidelines, proceeding with a Windows 11 upgrade could provide valuable security enhancements, improved system stability, and smoother performance overall. Checking your PC’s TPM compatibility and readiness for Windows 11 is recommended, allowing you to leverage these upgraded security features without prematurely investing in completely new hardware.
- Buying a New PC?
- New PCs will likely come with Windows 11 pre-installed. However, this could be an ideal moment to explore alternative operating systems like MacOS or Linux if you’re considering making a change.
Microsoft’s Windows 10 End Of Support FAQ: Our Insights
Let’s analyze the main points Microsoft shared in their recent communications:
Microsoft’s FAQ:
Point 1: What does this mean for me?
Microsoft: “After October 14, 2025, no more free software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes from Microsoft.”
SofTouch Insight:
Historically, “End of Support” rarely means immediate cessation of critical updates. Governments and large corporations often continue using Windows versions beyond EOS, prompting Microsoft to release critical security patches occasionally, even for EOS systems.
Point 2: What can I do with my old computer?
Microsoft: “Trade-in or recycle it with local organizations.”
SofTouch Insight:
This raises a logical question: If trading in means your PC will be resold and used again, presumably still running Windows 10, why push aggressively for an immediate upgrade?
Point 3: Will my Windows 10 PC stop working?
Microsoft: “No, it will continue functioning, but without official support.”
SofTouch Insight:
Exactly—your PC won’t magically stop working. When was the last time you directly contacted Microsoft for PC support?
Point 4: How is Windows 11 more secure?
Microsoft: “Windows 11 offers comprehensive end-to-end security, including antivirus, firewall, and internet protections.”
SofTouch Insight:
These security features are standard across most modern operating systems, including recent Windows 10 versions. If you’re utilizing SofTouch Managed IT Services, you’re already benefiting from advanced security measures beyond those provided by default in either Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Microsoft’s note at the email conclusion is crucial:
If you plan to keep using your Windows 10 PC, we recommend keeping your files backed up.
That’s excellent advice! Regular backups are essential, regardless of your operating system or device.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to upgrade now or later, SofTouch Systems is here to help:
- Compatibility Checks: Confirm if your current PCs can handle Windows 11.
- New PC Advice: Recommend the ideal new PC tailored to your business needs.
- Migration Support: Assist with seamless transitions to Windows 11 or alternative operating systems.
For personalized guidance on Windows upgrades, managed IT support, or security strategies, contact SofTouch Systems today.