Microsoft has announced a major update to Windows 11 that will impact businesses of all sizes. As part of Red8’s ongoing mission to keep our clients informed and prepared, we’re highlighting what’s changing, what it means for your organization, and how Red8 can help you transition smoothly and securely.
What’s Changing in Windows 11?
The most significant update coming to Windows 11 involves the end of support for older hardware and the enforcement of stricter hardware requirements. Starting October 14, 2025, Windows 10 will officially reach its end of life, and Windows 11 will become the standard operating system for supported devices.
Microsoft has also made it clear that future updates to Windows 11 will only be available to systems that meet the latest security and performance standards, including:
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) enabled
- Secure Boot capability
- Supported Intel, AMD, or ARM-based processors
- Minimum 4GB RAM and 64GB storage
These requirements aim to enhance security and improve system performance—but they also mean that many existing business systems may need to be upgraded or replaced.
Why This Matters to Your Organization
If you’re currently running Windows 10 or older versions of Windows, this change could have a significant impact on your IT infrastructure. Without updates or security patches, systems running unsupported versions will become vulnerable to cyber threats and compliance risks.
Here are a few areas of concern to watch:
- Security vulnerabilities: Devices that can’t run the latest version of Windows 11 may be exposed to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
- Software compatibility: As software vendors move to support only Windows 11, legacy systems may encounter issues running the latest apps or updates.
- Compliance risks: Organizations in regulated industries could fall out of compliance by operating on unsupported platforms.
- IT complexity and support: Maintaining a mix of unsupported and modern systems increases operational complexity and burdens internal IT teams.
Red8’s Approach: Helping You Plan Ahead
At Red8, we see this as more than a software update—it’s an opportunity to modernize, secure, and optimize your entire IT environment.
Here’s how we can help:
- Workstation Assessment and Inventory
Our experts can audit your current hardware to identify which devices are compatible with Windows 11 and which are not. This includes assessing TPM readiness, Secure Boot configuration, and CPU support.
- Strategic Upgrade Planning
We’ll help you build a tailored transition plan that aligns with your business needs, budget, and timing. Whether you choose to upgrade current devices, replace aging hardware, or explore virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) options, Red8 will guide the process end to end.
- Deployment and Integration Services
Red8 offers full deployment support, from image creation and driver management to hands-free provisioning and zero-touch installation. We make sure your employees get the tools they need with minimal downtime.
- Ongoing Support and Security
Beyond deployment, we provide long-term support and managed services to ensure your new Windows 11 environment stays secure, compliant, and high-performing. Our security experts will help you configure key features like BitLocker, Windows Hello, and Defender for Endpoint.
Take Action Now
The 2025 deadline may feel far off, but successful transitions take time—especially when hardware upgrades, budget planning, and training are involved. Proactively assessing your readiness now will help you avoid rushed decisions later.
We recommend starting with a free consultation from Red8 to evaluate your Windows 11 readiness and explore upgrade options that align with your business goals.
Ready to Begin?
Red8 is here to ensure your transition to Windows 11 is seamless, secure, and optimized for your long-term success. Contact us today to schedule a readiness assessment or speak with one of our modernization specialists.
