With Windows 10’s end-of-life approaching and support officially ending in October 2025, schools still relying on this operating system need to decide: Should you upgrade your current devices to Windows 11 or replace them altogether?
Here’s a guide to help your school make the right choice based on your technology needs, budget, and long-term goals.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Before making a decision, check if your current hardware meets the requirements for Windows 11. Microsoft has set strict system requirements to ensure the new operating system runs securely and efficiently. Key requirements include:
- A compatible 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores)
- 4 GB of RAM (8 GB or more is recommended for optimal performance)
- 64 GB of storage
- TPM version 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
How To Check:
- Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to quickly assess compatibility.
- Review your device’s specifications manually if needed.
Outcome:
If your system doesn’t meet the compatibility test, your school may need to upgrade hardware or consider replacing the devices.
Step 2: Evaluate The Age of Your Devices
How old are your current devices? Devices older than 5 years may not support Windows 11’s requirements and could slow down performance.
Reasons to Replace Older Devices:
- They’re near the end of their life cycle.
- Upgrading components (like RAM or storage) may not deliver significant performance improvements.
- They can pose security risks due to outdated firmware and hardware vulnerabilities.
Step 3: Assess Your School’s Performance Needs
Is your current hardware meeting the needs of your school’s staff and students? Consider:
- Speed: Are your devices slowing down during critical tasks?
- Reliability: Are you experiencing frequent crashes or malfunctions?
- Scalability: Will your devices handle future software updates and growing needs?
When to Upgrade:
If your devices are still performing well, upgrading to Windows 11 might be the most cost-effective solution.
When to Replace:
If performance issues are impacting productivity, replacing your devices will help avoid downtime and inefficiencies in the long run.
Step 4: Weigh The Costs
Budget is an important factor when deciding whether to upgrade or replace devices.
Upgrading Existing Devices:
- Lower upfront costs (if compatible).
- May require additional expenses for components (e.g., more RAM).
Replacing Devices:
- Higher upfront costs but better long-term value.
- Includes newer hardware designed for Windows 11’s features and security.
Step 5: Consider Future-Proofing
Newer devices come with the latest technology, offering:
- Enhanced security features, such as hardware-based encryption.
- Faster processing speeds and greater energy efficiency.
- Improved compatibility with modern applications and educational tools.
Investing in new devices now can position your school for future growth, ensuring your systems remain efficient for years to come.
Pro Tip: Involve an IT Professional
Still unsure? Partnering with an IT provider can simplify the decision-making process. They can:
- Assess your current setup.
- Recommend whether to upgrade or replace based on your specific needs.
- Manage the transition to minimize downtime and disruption.
Take The Next Step
Deciding whether to upgrade or replace your devices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Schedule a FREE Discovery Call with our experts to evaluate your systems and get personalized recommendations for a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Click here to schedule your FREE Discovery Call today!
Don’t wait until the October 2025 deadline—ensure your school is ready for the next step in technology!
