As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life on October 14, 2025, businesses here in Northern Ireland face a crucial transition to Windows 11. This shift is more than a software update; it’s a strategic opportunity to leverage advanced AI-enabled devices that future-proof IT operations. Windows 11 offers more than compliance with current software - it’s a chance to embrace high-performing, secure systems that set the stage for long-term competitiveness.
Why act now?
October is fast approaching and transitioning to a new operating system across an enterprise is complex. Businesses that remain tethered to legacy systems potentially face critical risks, including increased cybersecurity vulnerabilities, non-compliance, compatibility issues, and reduced operational efficiencies. For example, as older platforms lose access to security updates, sensitive company data becomes more vulnerable to breaches, phishing attacks, and ransomware.
Here are key considerations for businesses embarking on a PC refresh as part of their transition to Windows 11:
Assess Current Hardware and Software Compatibility
Before making any changes, businesses should start with an assessment of their existing PC fleet. One crucial aspect to note is the updated hardware requirement for Windows 11, so planning ahead for software updates or replacements will help avoid downtime and ensure a seamless transition. Many older devices do not meet the hardware requirements to upgrade to Windows 11. The first step in the transition process is to understand your client hardware estate.
Businesses can stay on Windows 10, but Microsoft will start charging for extended security updates from October 2025. All Windows 10 devices are eligible, and a license for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is sold as a subscription per device. This is an expensive cost on an older device with no new features and functionality. Planning now will help determine which devices or systems can be upgraded and where new investments are required.
Embrace AI-Optimised Hardware
A critical component of future-proofing your business lies in adopting AI-optimised hardware. AI PCs powered by neural processing units (NPUs) are built with AI accelerators that work in tandem with existing CPUs and GPUs. AI PCs can empower users to accomplish more, faster: from streamlining workflows to enhancing video conferencing and integrating advanced AI features into creative processes.
For example, Dell’s latest line of AI-powered PCs is designed to leverage the features of Windows 11, like Copilot, your AI assistant, or Dell’s latest Copilot+ PCs with unique on-device AI experiences, like real-time adaptability. Dell AI PCs offer intelligent performance, longer battery life, cooler and lighter laptops. Coupled with Microsoft's AI and cloud tools, this collaboration aims to redefine how businesses view workforce empowerment and operational ingenuity.
Prioritise Security with Modern PCs
Findings from Dell’s Innovation Catalyst Study reveal that 83% of organisations have been impacted by security attacks in the past 12 months, mainly from malware, phishing, and data breaches. Built-in PC security can de-risk organizations, yet just 4 in 10 organizations surveyed strongly agree that they emphasize buying technologies or applications with security built into them. Therein lies a major opportunity.
The security features in Windows 11 are best utilized on newer hardware. With Dell commercial devices, your workloads and data are protected wherever your employee’s work. Secure design principles and robust supply chain controls mitigate the risk of product vulnerabilities and tampering. Unique built-in defences activate zero trust principles, protecting the device while in-use, making them the world’s most secure commercial PCs¹ - an ideal partner to the most secure Windows System ever. As device-based attacks grow in our hybrid world, foundational PC security features like Dell-unique BIOS verification. Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and virtualization-based security (VBS) become more critical than ever.
Embracing a New Era of Workforce Productivity and Collaboration
Enterprise Strategy Group cited 58% of organisations have started deploying PCs and laptops with built-in AI processors, and an additional 33% plan to do so. Relying on legacy systems can frustrate teams, reduce engagement, and harm retention efforts in today’s hyper-competitive job market.
For instance, Dell’s AI PCs with Windows 11 Pro, come equipped with advanced hardware supporting machine learning processes and intelligent task execution, allowing employees to manage workloads effortlessly. Whether it’s automating repetitive tasks or maximizing computational power for data analytics, Dell and Microsoft are enabling a new era of work, one that promises improved experiences for employees while driving measurable business outcomes.
Plan for Better Total-Cost-of-Ownership and Sustainability
While there’s an upfront investment in upgrading, businesses will quickly recoup their costs with reduced IT maintenance, lower error rates, and improved resource utilisation. With a modern OS and hardware ecosystem, companies spend less time troubleshooting tech issues and more time driving their core businesses. In addition, flexible payment and financing solutions present a flexible monthly subscription-based model that eliminates the need for significant initial investments, providing the flexibility to scale PC infrastructure up or down as needed. This approach allows organisations to overcome financial barriers and access state-of-the-art technology.
A PC refresh tied to a Windows 11 upgrade also offers a chance to adopt more energy-efficient devices that not only save costs in the long term but also align with sustainability goals. This means that customers can be rest assured knowing the devices they purchase are being produced in ways that help reduce e-waste, increase recycling, and are energy-efficient, both in production and in use. This not only saves power costs but also improves corporate social responsibility metrics.
Regular technology refresh cycles ensure that companies utilise the most energy-efficient devices. While there are initial costs associated with these refresh cycles, the improvements in energy efficiency lead to substantial reductions in future, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run, and boost overall efficiency and environmental stewardship. By upgrading to Windows 11 and integrating advanced AI-powered PCs, businesses in Northern Ireland can future-proof their IT infrastructure and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
By Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead, Dell Technologies Ireland
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