Transitioning from Windows 10 to Windows 11

What you need to know about the Windows 10 end of support

With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, businesses face critical decisions about upgrading their operating systems. This transition impacts industries heavily reliant on secure, efficient tech, including healthcare, public schools, civil services, and private enterprises.

Without regular security updates, older devices become more vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches, potentially putting sensitive information at risk.

How to upgrade to Windows 11

Key hardware requirements:

Microsoft has introduced stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11, including the need for newer processors, TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module), and Secure Boot.

Devices without these specifications will not support the latest OS, meaning many businesses with legacy hardware may face compatibility challenges.

What is TPM 2.0 in Windows 11, and why does it matter?

TPM 2.0 is a critical security feature that enhances device protection through secure encryption keys, ensuring data integrity and reducing the risk of cyber threats.

In recent years, several high-profile cyberattacks, including those targeting Co-Op, M&S, and other major UK retailers, have highlighted just how vulnerable companies can be to hacking attempts.

These breaches have reinforced the importance of robust device security, making features like TPM 2.0 essential for protecting sensitive data and maintaining customer trust.

However, many older devices lack this feature, making them incompatible with Windows 11 and more susceptible to cyber risks. This is an important consideration for businesses contemplating making the move from legacy laptops to laptops with Windows 11.

The cost of upgrading to Windows 11

Why refurbished tech makes sense

Investing in new laptops and desktops can be a significant financial cost, especially for organisations in the education, healthcare and public service sectors managing tight budgets.

This is where we come in. Circular IT Group provides a cost-effective alternative with refurbished tech that meets Windows 11 requirements, offering significant savings compared to buying brand-new devices.

Benefits of choosing refurbished Windows 11 laptops

When you choose refurbished tech from Circular IT Group, you benefit from a comprehensive, sustainable approach to IT lifecycle management:

1. Save money: Refurbished devices provide significant upfront savings without compromising on quality or performance.
Quality Assurance: Each device undergoes rigorous testing, cleaning, and component replacement to ensure it meets the high standards required for business use. This means you get a like-new experience at a fraction of the cost.

2. Business customisation: Devices can be tailored to meet your specific business requirements, including memory upgrades, software installations, and device imaging.

3. Sustainability: Reduce electronic waste by extending the life of existing tech, lowering your carbon footprint and supporting a circular economy.

4. Corporate Social Responsibility: With the Circular IT group, there is the opportunity to donate your legacy devices to IT Donations; in return, you’ll receive a report that demonstrates your CSR.

5. Residual value: When it’s time to upgrade again, our buyback scheme allows you to reclaim residual value, creating a cost-effective, repeatable upgrade cycle that maximises device value over its entire lifecycle.

How to upgrade to Windows 11 with minimal disruption

For companies sticking with older devices past the October 2025 deadline, the risk of cyberattacks, data loss, and software incompatibility will increase.

To make this transition smoother, businesses should:

• Assess current device compatibility.
• Plan budget allocations for necessary upgrades.
• Purchase refurbished devices to save costs.
• Partner with IT providers like Circular IT Group for seamless migration.

Future-proofing your hardware

With Windows 10 support ending soon, now is the time to plan for the next phase of your IT infrastructure. Circular IT Group can support businesses in making the switch to Windows 11, offering secure buyback options, refurbished laptops, and support IT donations to maximise your benefit from legacy devices.

Choosing refurbished laptops means accessing the same high-performance quality and longevity as new devices, but at a significantly reduced price point. This approach reduces your initial investment (in comparison to new devices) and keeps your IT budget under control.

When it’s time to upgrade again in 6 to 7 years, our buyback scheme lets you reclaim the residual value of your devices, which you can reinvest in the latest second-life technology to further reduce costs.

Get started with your Windows 11 upgrade today

Contact us to learn more about our refurbished tech solutions and expert support tailored to your business needs.