After the debacle that was Windows 8, many businesses have been slow to upgrade to Windows 10. That’s why Windows 7 continues to dominate business computing, despite being eight years old. Microsoft is already scaling back support for Windows 7 and will cease all updates in 2020.
While the fears of upgrading to Windows 10 might be understandable, they’re unfounded. Even though any major software upgrade can cause disruption, the case for migrating to the latest version of Windows is stronger than ever, and here are a few reasons why:
#1. Never Pay for Windows Licenses Again
When it was first launched in 2015, Microsoft dubbed Windows 10 the last version of Windows. Up until then, the technology giant released new major versions of the world’s favorite operating system roughly once every three years.
Windows 10 presents a major shift in strategy whereby Microsoft now offers the operating system as a service, which requires a single one-time payment. No longer will you need to pay for new licenses every time you want to upgrade. Instead, you’ll pay only once to have Windows delivered a service that’s always kept current.
#2. Enjoy Better Interoperability
Microsoft’s main goal with Windows 8 was to provide a seamless transition between desktop and mobile devices by way of a truly universal interface. Back then, things didn’t quite work out as intended. Windows 10, however, brings back the familiar start menu without getting in the way of the experience on touchscreen devices. Although Microsoft may have abandoned its smartphone ambitions, switching between different devices has never been easy thanks to mobile versions of many key applications, such as Office 365.
#3. Stay Secure with Continuous Updates
An outdated operating system is an insecure one, as many businesses found out last year with the global WannaCry ransomware attack, which primarily targeted the totally unsupported Windows XP. Upgrading to Windows 10 ensures your machines are always up to date, since security updates are compulsory and unavoidable anyway, so long as you’re connected to the internet. Microsoft also releases major feature updates twice per year (once in spring and another in fall), which you can postpone temporarily as required to minimize interruptions to your business.
#4. Boot Up Safely
A “rootkit” is a type of malicious software that takes advantage of the fact that your computer doesn’t restrict what type of programs are allowed to run before the operating system loads. For example, while Windows is still loading (right after you turn on your computer) this type of malware can start running without your even noticing.
Because the rootkit is running before Windows can load its security programs, hackers can access your programs and data. Windows 10 added something called Secure Boot, which prevents this from happening.
#5. Better Account Management
These days, passwords alone just aren’t as secure enough to guard your apps and data. Windows 10 introduces several secure alternatives to passwords as well as options for requiring more than one type of login information, further verifying the identity of the person attempting to log in.
Windows 10 also introduces a feature called Hello, which when combined with low-cost hardware add-ons offers a simpler and more personal way to sign in to your computer without a password. Instead, it will recognize you by your face or fingerprint, allowing you to log in simply by looking at a camera or swiping your finger.
As a modern business, you depend on technology, but that doesn’t mean you should let it get in the way of your employees and customers. With Qoverage at your disposal, you’ll be able to enjoy the latest technology without any of the headaches. Call us today to find out how we can help!