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Upgrade or Replace?

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Windows 10 Is Nearing End-Of-Life: Should You Upgrade or Replace Your Devices?

With Windows 10 support officially ending in October 2025, businesses and individual users need to decide: upgrade to Windows 11 or invest in new devices? The right choice depends on your current hardware, performance needs, and budget.

Here's a guide to help you make the right choice based on your needs, budget and goals:

 

  • Step 1: Check Compatibility

    Before deciding check if your current hardware meets Windows 11's requirements to ensure the new operating system runs smoothly and securely.  Key requirements include: 

  • A compatible 64-bit processor (1 GHz or faster, 2+ cores)
  • 4 GB of RAM minimum (8 GB+ recommended)
  • 64 GB of storage
  • TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)

How to check: Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool or review your system specs manually. If your system isn’t compatible, upgrading won’t be an option and you’ll need new hardware.

 

  • Step 2: Consider your device's age

    Older devices (5+ years) are more prone to performance issues, security vulnerabilities, and hardware failures. Also, they may not support Windows 11's requirements. 

When to replace: 

  • Your device is sluggish and inefficient.
  • Upgrading RAM or storage won’t offer a significant performance boost.
  • You’re running outdated firmware, increasing security risks.

 

  • Step 3: Evaluate performance needs

    Are your current devices slowing you down?

Consider:

  • Speed: Does your computer handle everyday tasks smoothly?
  • Reliability: Do you experience frequent crashes or errors?
  • Scalability: Will your hardware support future software and workload demands?

Upgrade if: Your devices still run well and meet Windows 11 requirements. Replace if: Performance issues are hurting productivity and efficiency.

 

  • Step 4: Weight the cost

    Upgrading: Lower initial cost, but may require additional RAM or SSD upgrades.

    Replacing: Higher upfront cost, but better long-term value with newer, more efficient hardware.

 

  • Step 5: Future-Proof Your IT

    Investing in new devices ensures:

    - Better security with hardware-based encryption.

    - Faster processing speeds and better efficiency.

    - Improved compatibility with modern software.

 

Still Unsure? Let's make it easy

Making the wrong decision can cost you time, money, and security risks. Let TheCompuLab help! Our FREE Check Up will analyze your current setup and recommend the best upgrade path: no guesswork, just expert advice. Click here to schedule. 

Don’t wait until the last minute. Prepare for Windows 11 now and keep your business running smoothly!
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