End of support for Windows 7 is fast approaching – Take the first step towards better security.

End of support for Windows 7 is fast approaching – make the switch to Windows 10 for enhanced security, manageability and productivity

In just under five months, support for Windows 7 will end. The 10-year-old system has been replaced by a much-improved Windows 10 – our most secure operating system ever. By upgrading, users will be stepping towards enhanced security, more efficient systems management, and better collaboration, unlocking more value for your business. This shift is already well underway in thousands of organisations around the world. In fact, more than half of all commercial monthly active devices are already on Windows 10.

Making the move to Windows 10 makes sense, as the benefits are plentiful.

Enhanced Security

From January 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer deliver security fixes or technical support for Windows 7. Users will still be able to start and use Windows 7 but it won’t be as safe or secure as it used to be. The challenge with continuing to use Windows 7 is that it won’t be patched for any new viruses once support ends, and this leaves users exposed to any emerging threats.

Windows 10 comes with built-in security features, including firewall and internet protections to help safeguard against the most advanced viruses, malware, and ransomware. Along with Secure Boot, Windows 10 also makes key security features available such as Device Guard, Windows Hello and Windows Advanced Threat Protection. Windows 10 can adapt to changing and unseen threats, protecting users’ data and devices from the most dangerous hackers. As more and more staff use their laptop for personal use, enhanced security has never been more relevant or important.

Transform IT Management

Windows 10 transforms the way IT manages Windows devices, adopting simpler and easier approaches that are cloud-based. This makes the process easier for everyone.

Using Windows Autopilot, users can convert a brand-new device into a business-ready device quickly, without IT needing to touch the device. It can then be fully managed at the touch of a button.

Windows Analytics allows IT professionals to quickly get insights into the health and efficiency of their environment, to ensure employees are compliant and have the best possible experience, including smooth upgrades – good news for the whole team!

Making the most of the advanced mobile device management system in Windows 10, the effort of managing desktops and applications is minimised. Windows 10 and Surface devices offer simple, flexible and cost-effective management to help you innovate your business.

Better Collaboration

The workplace is changing. Flexible teamworking, mobile working and collaboration are now best practice to encourage quality output. Research has found that 42% of the global workforce is set to be mobile by 2020. This a trend that is here to stay, so companies must learn to adapt.

Time is precious and the more time we have, the easier it is to meet workplace deadlines. However, time can be lost on workflow issues with older devices. A lot of staff will complain about their faulty device but don’t actually go through the process of flagging it with IT – this slows down productivity even more.

In fact, 128 hours of productivity are lost by using hardware older than four years as these devices are three times more likely to require maintenance. Maintaining and repairing those devices can add up to €460 a year for every device you operate. Updating to a new Windows 10 device can end up costing less, reduce downtime and allow you more time to collaborate with your teams and deliver your best work.¹

Microsoft Surface devices are very popular with staff and management alike. They are mobile, more secure (with intelligent endpoint security built in), they perform better, have longer battery life and are more cost effective. Finally some good news to bring to your team! Everyone will be pleased with the results of working with Surface: 72% of people who use Surface at work have said that they want to use it all the time at work and even for personal use.² Your staff will be able to work smarter, faster and achieve better results. In this way, Surface and Windows 10 inspires employees to do more.

Footnotes:

¹ SMB PC Study, Techaisle, 2018.

² Microsoft’s Surface Brand Share Grows. A creative strategies study commissioned by Microsoft 2017.