Starting Fresh: Week 3 - Identifying Necessary Hardware Upgrades
Jan 17, 2025
Tips
As technology evolves, keeping your business hardware up to date is critical for security, efficiency, and compatibility. With Microsoft's planned end of support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, now is the time to assess your hardware and prepare for upgrades to avoid risks and disruptions.
Why Hardware Upgrades Are Essential
Outdated hardware increases security vulnerabilities, especially when devices no longer receive critical updates. For example, after 2025, Windows 10 systems will be at higher risk for cyber threats. Modern hardware is faster, more reliable, and optimized for today’s software, reducing frustrations and boosting productivity. Often companies delay upgrades until something catastrophic happens - just ask Delta Airlines, who admits last year's massive outage was related to outdated hardware.
Steps to Identify Hardware Upgrade Needs
Evaluate Your Hardware Inventory: List all computers, servers, mobile devices, printers, and networking equipment. Consider their age, performance, and compatibility with current software.
Check Compatibility: Use tools like Microsoft’s PC Health Check to see if your devices meet Windows 11 requirements. Assess whether servers can handle increased workloads, and ensure mobile devices and peripherals support modern apps and features.
Prioritize Upgrades: Identify devices nearing the end of their lifecycle and focus on critical systems that impact daily operations the most.
Plan and Budget: Allocate funds for upgrades and explore savings through bulk purchases or trade-ins. A phased rollout can minimize disruption by testing and integrating new devices gradually.
Set a Replacement Schedule: Establish standard lifespans for hardware (e.g., laptops every four years, printers every six years) and monitor performance to catch issues early.
OutfIT: Your Partner in Technology Transitions
OutfIT offers comprehensive hardware assessments, strategic upgrade planning, and seamless implementation to ensure your technology evolves with your business. From computers to networking equipment, we help you stay secure and efficient, with ongoing support to keep everything running smoothly.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Proactively upgrading hardware keeps your business ahead of security risks, software incompatibilities, and productivity bottlenecks. Don’t wait for outdated systems to hold you back—start planning today. And if you want to feel better about the state of your business you can read how far behind the US government is on hardware upgrades.
Stay tuned for next week's tip, where we'll discuss best practices for data backup and recovery to safeguard your business information.
