Microsoft no longer offers support for Windows 7. If you’re still working with this out-of-date operating system, you’re running out of time to update to Windows 10. A recent survey by Which? found that 30% of people around the world were still using Windows 7. Windows 11, the latest iteration, is available for free to anyone who currently uses Windows 10, but not to those with older versions. Not upgrading will put your business at risk of IT issues, reduced virus protection, and lower performance all round. But what is the upgrading process, will you have to pay for it, and will your devices need to be replaced?

Three Cherries are an IT and Telephony support business, helping SMEs all over the UK and organisations in the education sector take the gamble out of their IT. We believe business technology shouldn’t be overly complicated. Instead, we offer simple, easy-to-understand advice and support. We’ve been in the business for over 20 years, so we know what we’re talking about when it comes to IT.

In this blog, we explain why you should upgrade to Windows 10 and take you through the steps.

Why Upgrade to Windows 10?

Regularly updating your devices makes sense, improving speeds and providing a host of additional features. Below, we outline some of the most important benefits.

Microsoft Support

In January 2020, Microsoft ended their technical assistance and updates for Windows 7. That means if anything goes wrong with your operating system, you won’t get the necessary support. And, even worse, a lack of updates will put you at risk of being hacked, infected with malware or viruses, and other security issues. And these security breaches can be expensive; the average cost of a cyber attack to UK businesses is £2,670.

Speed

The latest Windows will naturally perform better than older, outdated versions. Your computers will be faster and more reliable, delivering consistently better load times, if you keep them up to date. Don’t let your operating system slow your employees down! Upgrading will lead to better productivity, and you’ll waste less time on technical glitches.

Read next: 6 Simple Steps to Improve IT Network Performance

Access to Windows 11

Of course, one of the main advantages of upgrading is that you’ll then have access to a free download of Windows 11. With a variety of new features and functionality, Windows 11 is the most up to date version of Windows. But, if you’re on an older system, you’re going to have to pay for it. So, save your business money and upgrade your way to 11 instead!

Start Menu

Windows 10 sees the return of the start menu which vanished with Windows 7. This allows easy access to apps, folders, and contacts and makes navigation much more intuitive.

Hands-Free

With Windows 10 comes Cortana, your ‘Personal Productivity Assistant’ according to Microsoft. This voice-enabled digital helper is integral to Windows 10, and can perform a range of tasks without you having to move a muscle.

Microsoft Edge

The new Microsoft Edge browser performs much better than Internet Explorer. Not only that, but it’s also more secure, dramatically reducing the risk of a breach. All businesses these days need to access the internet and surf the web securely. With this browser update, your business is much better protected against cyber threats.

See more: How to Make Sure Your Business Doesn’t Lose Internet Access

Security

To extend the previous point, Windows 10 provides much better security features than any of the previous Windows incarnations. From improved antivirus protection to firewall and disk encryption features, this operating system combines convenience with system security.

The Benefits of Cyber Security Essentials for Small Businesses >

Support for Windows 10 End Soon!

In December 2021, Microsoft won’t be offering support or regular updates for Windows 10 version 2004. Now is the time to jump ship and get your free upgrade to Windows 11 while you still can! Even if you don’t want Windows 11, it’s important you make sure your business’ computers are at least running the most up-to-date version of Windows 10.

How to Upgrade to Windows 10

Initially, Microsoft offered a free upgrade to Windows 10, but that was years ago. You may be thinking that means your business is going to have to pay. Don’t despair; there may still be a way for you to get a free upgrade to Windows 10 (and therefore a free upgrade to Windows 11). Below, our tech experts explain how.

• Step 1 – Make sure your current version of Windows 7 is activated by going to Control Panel from the Start Menu, clicking System & Security, and then System. It’s also important to make sure your computer fulfils the minimum requirements for Windows 10. If it doesn’t, your business is going to have to bite the bullet and shell out on some new computers. If everything is looking good, make sure you back up all your data before you get started on the upgrade.
• Step 2 – Visit the Windows 10 download page and open the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool.
• Step 3 – Click Download tool now and then Upgrade this PC now or, if you don’t have space on your hard disk, you may have to run the upgrade from a USB stick or other external hard drive.
• Step 4 – Choose to keep your files and information.
• Step 5 – Wait for the installation to happen. The computer will restart and show a Windows 10 welcome screen. At this point you will have to choose your privacy arrangements and sign into your Microsoft account.
• Step 6 – Finally, go to Settings, choose Update & Security, then Activation to make sure the upgrade has worked.

Read next: Why Should I Move My Email to Office 365?

Upgrade your IT & Telephony Support

If you’ve left it too late or your devices won’t support Windows 10, don’t worry. Three Cherries are dedicated to helping SMEs and organisations in the education sector get the most out of their IT and Telephony. We can help you work out the best operating system for your needs and ensure its installed and functioning as well as it can for your business. It’s never too late to get your IT up to date!

If you’re looking for 24/7 support for complex system architecture, we can create a package to suit you. Business technology shouldn’t give you a headache.

Talk to us today about your IT and Telephony needs.

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