Should Your Business Upgrade to Windows 11?

Is Windows 11 Worth It for Businesses?

Yes — Windows 11 is worth it. It delivers stronger security, improved performance, and long-term support that Windows 10 cannot match. The operating system delivers substantial business value and the benefits of Windows 11 go far beyond surface-level changes. Here’s why the upgrade makes financial and operational sense.

1. Hardware-Backed Security That Actually Protects Your Business

   Is Windows 11 more secure than its predecessor? The evidence overwhelms skeptics.

   Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 chips and Secure Boot capability. While these requirements initially frustrated IT managers in charge of hardware procurement, they provide enterprise security foundations that Windows 10 cannot match.

   First, consider the role of hardware-level protection. The TPM 2.0 requirement enables hardware-level encryption that keeps sensitive data protected even if devices are stolen or compromised.

   Next, let’s look at drive-level data security. BitLocker encryption, a full-volume encryption feature built into Windows operating systems, is designed to protect data by encrypting the entire drive and runs automatically.

   Additionally, Windows 11 strengthens user authentication. Windows Hello for Business eliminates password vulnerabilities that cause 81% of data breaches.

   Finally, advanced system isolation sets Windows 11 apart. Windows 11’s virtualization-based security (VBS) and hypervisor-protected code integrity (HVCI) create isolated security zones within your computers.

   This means malware that successfully infiltrates one part of the system cannot easily spread to critical components – a crucial defense against ransomware attacks that cost businesses an average of $4.45 million per incident.

2. Performance Improvements That Boost Bottom-Line Productivity

   Windows 11 business features deliver 30% faster boot times and better memory management.

   Snap Layouts save power users 15-20 seconds each time they organize applications.

   Employees switching between Excel, CRM systems, and browsers gain meaningful time savings.

   Memory management improvements reduce application crashes. Running QuickBooks, Excel, and email simultaneously on Windows 10 would cost businesses performance slowdowns and potential productivity losses.

3. Modern Collaboration Tools Support Hybrid Work

   Windows 11 offers enhanced collaboration capabilities with tools like Studio Effects, which improve video calls, and Live Captions, which assist with meeting accessibility.

   These tools address modern business needs that Windows 10 cannot support. Remote and hybrid teams benefit from built-in productivity enhancements.

   AI integration reduces administrative tasks through Copilot assistant functionality. The tool summarizes lengthy emails, generates meeting notes, and assists with document creation.

   Android app support through the Microsoft Store allows businesses to run mobile applications on desktop computers. This eliminates the need for separate tablets or phones for employees who use industry-specific mobile apps.

   Microsoft won’t backport these features to Windows 10. Businesses staying on older systems miss every future improvement. Upgrade today or risk missing out.

Are your Organization’s Computers Compatible with Windows 11?

Before planning your upgrade, you need to assess your current hardware against Windows 11’s requirements.

Hardware Requirements

Windows 11 requires:

• 64-bit processor (8th generation Intel or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer)
• 4GB RAM (8GB recommended for business use)
• 64GB storage
• TPM 2.0 chip
• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability

Assessment Tools

Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool provides a quick compatibility assessment for individual machines. Enterprise environments can use Microsoft Endpoint Manager or third-party tools for fleet-wide analysis.

These tools generate comprehensive reports showing which devices meet requirements and which need hardware upgrades or replacement.

Managing Incompatible Devices

For devices that don’t meet requirements, you have several options:

• Replace the oldest or most critical machines first
• Implement a phased replacement schedule over multiple budget cycles
• Consider leasing options to spread costs
• Evaluate whether some devices can receive minor upgrades (like adding RAM)

Unsure if your systems are ready? Schedule a complimentary assessment with Delvetek Consulting. Don’t leave your tech investments to chance.

How Much Does Upgrading to Windows 11 Cost?

The upgrade is free for compatible Windows 10 devices. For new licenses, expect $139–$199 per device. Hardware replacements and IT labor may add costs — but staying on Windows 10 costs more over time. Understanding the total cost of Windows 11 upgrade helps you budget effectively and plan implementation.

1. Software Licensing

   Windows 11 is a free upgrade for devices running genuine Windows 10. This means your existing licenses transfer at no additional cost for compatible hardware.

   How much is Windows 11 when purchasing new licenses? Retail pricing varies by edition:

   Windows 11 Home: $139 per license

   Windows 11 Pro: $199 per license

   Volume discounts start at 5 licenses. Relying on an MSP helps get great deals and in migration to Windows 11, providing both cost savings and headache savings when you involve a partner with technical expertise for your transition.

2. Hardware Costs

   For devices requiring replacement, business-class PCs typically cost $750-$1,200 per unit. For a 50-employee company, this could mean $37,500-$60,000 in hardware investment.

   However, you don’t need to replace everything at once. A phased approach spreads costs over time and allows you to prioritize critical users first.

3. Implementation Costs

   Factor in IT labor costs for:

   • Compatibility assessment and planning
   • Data migration and application testing
   • User training and support
   • Deployment and configuration

   It’s crucial to assess whether your internal IT team can handle the project alone or if you could benefit from a managed service provider‘s assistance.

Can Organizations Workaround Upgrading to Windows 11?

Some businesses hope to avoid upgrading to Windows 11 entirely by finding alternatives or delaying tactics. While workarounds exist, they’re expensive band-aids that ultimately cost more than upgrading.

The Extended Security Updates Trap

Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10 – a paid service that provides security patches beyond the October 2025 end-of-support date. On paper, this seems like an easy solution. In reality, it’s a costly mistake.

ESU pricing increases each year:

• Year 1: USD $61 (CAD $85) per device
• Year 2: USD $122 (CAD $170) per device
• Year 3: USD $244 (CAD $340) per device

For a company with just 50 employees, the numbers are shocking:

• First year: USD $3,050 (CAD $4,250)
• Second year: USD $6,100 (CAD $8,500)
• Third year: USD $12,200 (CAD $17,000)

Total ESU cost: USD $21,350 (CAD $29,750) over three years

USD 21,350 (CAD 29,750) gets you No performance improvements, No new features, and No productivity gains except basic security patches. You’re essentially paying premium prices to keep outdated technology.

Compare this to upgrading: even if 50% of your devices need replacement at $1,000 each, you spend $25,000 but get modern hardware, improved performance, enhanced security, and future-ready systems that will serve your business for 5-7 years.

Other Options? Alternative operating systems create compatibility issues with business software. Running unsupported Windows 10 violates cyber insurance policies and compliance requirements.

Your Business Should Upgrade Now

If your devices meet Windows 11 requirements and your applications are compatible, start planning your upgrade immediately.

Why Early Action Matters

Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025, leaving less than a year for preparation. Starting now allows for:

• Thorough testing and planning
• Gradual hardware replacement if needed
• User training and change management
• Avoiding the rush as the deadline approaches

Consider partnering with IT service providers if your internal team lacks capacity for a major deployment project.

Delvetek Consulting is your Windows 11 Migration Partner

A business upgrade to Windows 11 is more than just an operating system change – it’s a strategic move toward enhanced security, improved productivity, and future readiness. With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, the time for planning is now.

Delvetek is your ideal partner for a flawless Business Windows 11 Migration, offering unmatched expertise and personalized support to ensure your transition is seamless and future-proof.

Why do Canadian Businesses partner with Delvetek?

• We provide a Seamless Windows 11 Migration Process
• We offer Enhanced Security During Migration
• We ensure Full Communication & Support
• We deliver Post-Migration Support & Optimization
• We provide Tailored Deployment Tools
• We offer Cost-Effective Solutions
• We bring Expert Guidance & Compliance Assurance

Whether you need a smooth migration, robust security with Cyber Security Consulting Services, or ongoing optimization with our Managed IT Services, we have the skills and experience to help your business succeed. The future is secure, fast, and efficient with Windows 11. The question isn’t whether to upgrade, but how quickly you can make it happen.