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Windows 10: The Final Countdown – It’s Time To Upgrade

Windows 10 has served us well. But its time is running out. Microsoft plans to end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. This means no more security updates, no more patches, and no more support.

It’s time to upgrade to Windows 11. This is especially true for business users with many systems to check and upgrade. This change isn’t just about getting new features. It’s about ensuring your PC stays secure, fast, and capable.

Why you need to upgrade now

Security concerns: No more updates mean no more security patches. Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures you receive the latest security updates.

Enhanced performance: Windows 11 is designed to be faster and more efficient. It optimizes your hardware, providing better performance.

Improved features: The redesigned Start Menu and Taskbar offer a fresh, modern look. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups help you organize your workspace. Virtual Desktops allow you to create different desktops for different tasks.

Hardware requirements for Windows 11

Not all current PCs can run Windows 11. Here are the basic hardware requirements:

  • A compatible 64-bit processor with at least 1 GHz clock speed and 2 or more cores.
  • 16 GB of RAM or more.
  • 64 GB of storage or more.
  • UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability.
  • TPM version 2.0.
  • DirectX 12 compatible graphics with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

If your PC doesn’t meet these requirements, consider upgrading.

Upgrading your PC

Opportunity to modernize: Newer PCs come with better processors, more RAM, and faster storage.

AI-enabled PCs: Consider PCs that offer advanced features powered by AI.

Energy efficiency: Modern PCs use less power without compromising performance.

Benefits of upgrading to Windows 11

Better user interface: Windows 11 offers a cleaner UI with a centered Start Menu and simplified Taskbar.

Improved multitasking: You can easily organize open windows, switch between tasks and create separate desktops.

Integrated Microsoft Teams: Quickly start a chat or video call directly from the Taskbar.

What are the risks of waiting to upgrade?

Increased vulnerability: Waiting to upgrade increases your vulnerability. As the end-of-support date approaches, the risk of security threats grows.

Potential compatibility issues: New applications and updates may not be compatible. By upgrading now, you ensure compatibility with the latest software.

Business disruption: Starting an upgrade for your office now gives time for a smooth rollout.

How to Upgrade

Check compatibility: Check if your PC meets the requirements using the PC Health Check tool.

Backup your data: Avoid losing important files during the upgrade process.

Follow upgrade instructions: This may involve downloading the installation file and running the setup.

Seek professional help: If you’re unsure about upgrading, seek the help of Tech Experts.

Unlock These Productivity Gems In Windows 11

Since its launch in 2021, Windows 11 has been continuously updated, bringing new features and improvements to make your life easier.

While big announcements like the AI assistant Copilot and expanded hardware support grab headlines, there are some lesser-known features that deserve your attention too.

These hidden gems can make your Windows 11 experience quicker and easier, helping you stay productive and organized.

One of the most helpful features in Windows 11 is Focus mode. Picture this: You’re deep into an important project, and suddenly, notifications start popping up – emails, instant messages, reminders. It’s hard to maintain focus with all these interruptions. Focus mode comes to the rescue by silencing them.

To activate it, click the bell icon at the bottom right of your screen and select “Focus” from the menu. This will give you a 20-minute period with no interruptions, which you can pause anytime. It’s your digital “Do Not Disturb” sign.

Another great feature is Live captions. Imagine you’re in a noisy office or maybe you have some difficulty hearing.

Understanding audio and video files can be challenging. Windows 11 has built-in live captioning that automatically generates captions for your content.

You can activate it from the Accessibility settings (go to Settings > Accessibility > Captions) or by pressing Windows Key + Ctrl + L. The first time you use it, you’ll need to agree to Microsoft’s voice processing terms and download a speech pack. After that, captions will appear at the top of your screen, making it easier to follow along with any audio or video.

If you find typing tedious, you’ll love Voice typing. This lets you dictate text instead of typing it. To start, press Windows Key + H. Make sure you have a microphone connected (your webcam mic works fine). Click the mic button that appears, and you’re ready to go. You can even set it up to automatically punctuate your sentences.

Voice commands like “stop listening” or “ignore that” help you control the flow of dictation. It’s a real time-saver for writing emails or documents.

And if you want a tidy and efficient desktop, Start menu folders are a game-changer. To create a folder, right-click an app and select “Pin to start.” Then drag another app over it, and they’ll combine into a folder.

You can rename the folder and move it to the top of your Start menu for quick access to your most-used apps. It’s a simple way to keep things organized and within reach.

Finally, there’s the Snapping bar. If you’re a multitasker, this feature is a lifesaver. It lets you snap windows into various layouts on your screen. Drag a window to the top of the screen, and a set of layout options will appear.

You can place windows in different positions, making the most of your screen space. You can also use the Windows key + arrow keys to snap windows into place. If you don’t see the snapping options, you can turn them on in Settings > System > Multi-tasking.

These features might not make headlines, but they can really enhance your Windows 11 experience and productivity. Try them out and see how much time you can save.

It’s Almost Time To Say Goodbye (To Windows 10)

Microsoft announced that, come October 2025, Windows 10 will officially reach its end of life.

This means no more updates or support, which could leave your business’s systems vulnerable. It’s a significant shift, but you have a few options to manage the transition smoothly and make sure your operations stay secure and efficient.

Option 1: Ignoring the inevitable

You could choose to do nothing and keep using Windows 10. However, this “ostrich” approach could expose your business to serious risks.

Without updates, your systems become perfect targets for cyber attacks. The data you handle daily – customer details, financial information, and more – could be at risk. Not the best idea, right?

Option 2: Upgrade to Windows 11

The logical next step is to upgrade to Windows 11. Before you jump in, it’s crucial to check if your current hardware can support it.

Windows 11 comes with higher system requirements, so you may need a compatibility check (there are tools available for this). The benefits of upgrading are plenty – enhanced security, a more intuitive interface, and new features designed to boost productivity. Windows 11 is a great way to enhance how you work.

Option 3: New hardware

If your current devices don’t meet the requirements for Windows 11, it might be time for an upgrade. Don’t look at investing in new hardware as a cost; it’s an investment in your business’s future.

New devices are faster, more efficient, and come with better security features right out of the box. It’s an opportunity to streamline operations and maybe even reduce your long-term costs.

Option 4: Pay for Extended Security Updates

If upgrading isn’t an option right now, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10. This means you can still receive critical security updates, but at a cost.

For the first year, the price is manageable, but it doubles each year after that. While this can keep your systems secure a little longer, it’s a temporary solution with escalating costs.

While fall 2025 might seem far away, starting your transition plan now is wise. Deciding whether to upgrade, update, or overhaul your systems takes time. Early planning helps minimize disruption and spreads out the costs associated with transitions.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices or just need some expert advice tailored to your business needs, we can help – get in touch at (734) 457-5000 or info@mytechexperts.com.

Are You Really Ready To Upgrade To Windows 11?

So, you’re thinking about upgrading your business to Windows 11? That’s a smart move because this update comes with some cool features that can boost your productivity.

But here’s the thing, it’s not as simple as clicking a button and SHAZAM, you’re on Windows 11. You need a plan, or you might end up with some messy downtime and confused employees.

Before you get all excited about Windows 11, check which of your current PCs can handle the upgrade. Some older machines might not meet the system requirements, and you don’t want any surprises down the road.

If you need to replace some computers, make sure you budget for that as part of your upgrade plan.

Most of your software that works on Windows 10 should play nice with Windows 11, but don’t take that for granted.

Look at all the software your business relies on to make sure it won’t freak out with the new operating system (OS). Some software might need updates to get along with Windows 11, so keep an eye on that too.

Whenever you’re making a big change that affects your team, you’ve got to have a plan. It’s your roadmap to success. So, what should your upgrade plan include?

  • Clear and honest communication with your team about the upgrade
  • Training sessions to show your employees the ropes of the new OS
  • Help for your managers to guide their teams
  • A timeline for when the upgrade will happen, and all the communication and training that goes with it
  • A plan to handle any bumps in the road and any resistance you might encounter
  • A resource to help your team with any questions or issues they have after the upgrade

Alternatively, team up with an IT support partner (like Tech Experts) to make sure everything goes smoothly and to take the weight off your shoulders!

Don’t go solo on this one; it’s best to have IT pros in your corner. If something goes wrong during the upgrade and you’ve done it yourself, it might take a lot longer to get things back on track. Let experts like our team handle it. We know what we’re doing.

Upgrading to Windows 11 can supercharge your business, but only if you plan.

If you’d like help to make the change as smooth as can be, get in touch.

Microsoft Is Working On Windows 11 Update Release

Later this year, the Windows 10 era will officially come to an end with the release of Windows 11.

The latest version of the OS promises a raft of new features that will offer a “Next Gen” experience.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect to see in Windows 11 when it is rolled out:

A totally redesigned Start Menu & taskbar
Unlike all prior versions of Windows, Windows 11 will feature a centered Start Menu and taskbar, making it aesthetically similar to ChromeOS. In addition to that, the Start Menu on the new OS won’t come with the live tiles you’re accustomed to. Instead, it will use static icons for all Microsoft Store apps.

If you decide you don’t want your Start Menu centered, you can revert to more traditional Windows Left Aligned menu quickly and easily, and you’ll also be able to choose from among three different Start Menu sizes.

Explorer improvements
Windows 11 will include the same File Explorer that you’re used to, but it’s getting a much needed facelift and a variety of improvements. Most of these are aesthetic in nature and designed to give File Explorer a sleeker and more modern look, with new icons and rounded corners.

Snap and widgets
Windows 11 sports four different Snap layouts, allowing you to choose between them, or switch from one to another at will. In addition to that, Microsoft is also introducing Widgets, which appears to be the successor to Window’s 10’s “News and Interests” feature. It utilizes your browsing history to create a custom news feed that updates constantly.

In addition to those things, you’ll find virtual desktop support, HDR support for color-managed, apps, a modernized, redesigned device manager, and a whole lot more.

Although there are bound to be kinks and growing pains when Windows 11 is initially released, we’re looking forward to seeing all this in action. Change is coming.

Did Your Windows 10 Search Function Break?

Jason Cooley is Support Services Manager for Tech Experts.

It seems like every time I turn around I have a new Windows 10 story to share. The combined abundance and variety of issues has been frustrating to say the least. The number of users affected normally varies as people will install updates at different times, but those updates are the most likely cause of a widespread issue.

Microsoft recently had one of the most widespread issues in its Windows 10 OS history, and that is quite a statement. It likely affected more users than any group on a given operating system version.

When trying to update something in its own programming for Windows 10, Microsoft broke the search feature.

First, some background information: Windows 10 search is built-in and Microsoft has integrated the search with Bing to allow for both local searching of your system and online results as well.

The option can be very useful for users as it allows a centralized location to look for whatever you might need to find. Personally, I still use the search feature for Windows functions and use Google to do any web searches. That said, I can see the value the search feature has for some.

For each person it works well for, there is a user that will search for something on their computer then accidentally open a Bing search result for something they never had any intention of opening.

It happened recently to someone I know. They were searching for their scanner and nearly downloaded a third party application from an untrusted source. It can happen easily and frequently.

Whether you find use in local and online results or you are more like me and use the search purely for Windows functions, you likely rely on it to some degree.

So what would you do if you had no ability to search at all? What if the entire functionality of searching was broken in Windows 10? That is what happened recently to just about every person who happened to login over a few day period recently. Microsoft was updating some of its backend search code (likely making changes to Bing itself) and didn’t account for an impact on the integrated search.

The impact on each user varied, but even as someone who is very comfortable using Windows 10, the broken search function really made things more difficult. Fortunately, the problem was very quickly resolved.

In terms of a Microsoft turnaround, a 1-day fix is quite incredible. Some users experienced it for a bit longer as the fix was not always applied automatically. The problems were sporadic, but some machines took a few restarts to apply the hotfix.

When you break Windows for almost all of your users (especially right after taking away the most loved operating system of all time), fixing it quick is in your best interest. That is exactly what Microsoft did. Let’s just hope we all achieve a little stability now that some of their resources have been freed up with the end of Windows 7.

Windows 10 Issues Persist After Windows 7 Retires

Jason Cooley is Support Services Manager for Tech Experts.

January marked the end for Windows 7. After ten years and more than a few extensions, Microsoft finally made the cut-off and will no longer be updating what many would call its most reliable operating system ever.

Many businesses held out as long as possible, and some have even paid for privatized extended support.

Microsoft certainly had to split its focus while having more than one operating system in production, but with the end of Windows 7, one would assume that Windows 10 would have more developers working on the issues and updates as they arise.

It hasn’t been long, but so far, we have not seen anything to indicate a brighter future for Windows 10.

Now, Microsoft is no stranger to a failed OS. Who can forget Windows ME (Millennium Edition), Windows Vista, and even Windows 8? These were deemed failures and had a much shorter life span than favorites like Windows XP and Windows 7.

That said, Windows 10 won’t fall into the same category as ME, Vista, or Windows 8. Windows 10, when correctly functional, really is one of the better user experiences there has been. It has already proven commercially to be more successful with a larger market share than any of the failed systems.

Of course, that could also be attributed to the fact that there was another OS available at the times of ME, Vista, and Windows 8. Windows ME couldn’t break the grasp that Windows XP had. Vista was a victim of Windows XP and Windows 7. Windows 8 was decimated by Windows 7 and Windows 10.

Windows 10 from a user standpoint is not a failure, but there are a few ways that it exceeds the issues that some of these failed operating systems had.

Windows 10 has had some fairly widespread issues. The most recent problem? A majority of Windows 10 users found themselves unable to use the search feature in Windows. The start menu would allow you to open it, but the search never returned results.

Microsoft was able to fix the issue within a day or so, but what caused the issue?

The broken search was related to a broken link to Bing search. The search function is integrated with Bing, and the functionality of the feature was completely broken because of it.

There have been other issues as well. One of my favorite and most unique problems with Windows 10 was a few month span during an entire feature update where Microsoft had broken the ability to install Microsoft Office.

There was no fix. If the problem occurred, you had to either roll back to install Office or wait until the next feature update.

You almost expect there to be issues with third party software during a new update, but when it’s the company’s own product? It is definitely a headscratcher. Relatedly, there were frequent problems with Office activation and the Microsoft store being completely missing or broken.

While Windows 7 didn’t have all of the features that Windows 10 did, it seemed to be much more reliable.

We can only hope that Microsoft gets those extra developers working so Windows 10 can be as reliable as its predecessor. Despite these issues, the potential is there.

Windows Core OS: The Future of Windows

Jason Cooley is Support Services Manager for Tech Experts.

Microsoft Windows has been the leading PC OS for as long as I can remember. There have been many different versions through the years.

There have been favorites like Windows 3.1, XP, and Windows 7 – and less well-received versions, like ME (Millennium Edition) and Vista.

Windows tried a new approach with Windows 8, something they envisioned would take over mobile device platforms, and designed an OS that would be similar across many devices.

This never truly came to be as Windows 8 was generally not well received, and the mobile version wasn’t exactly a hit either.

Enter Windows 10. While there are problems from a technical standpoint, Windows 10 (as it currently stands) is a pretty user-friendly OS and continues to make improvements and security enhancements with the user in mind. Windows 10 spans many devices.

Smart TVs, cell phones, laptops, desktops, tablets, Microsoft’s Xbox One, and so many other devices have a version of Windows 10.

I stress the fact that these devices have a version of Windows 10 for a reason. These operating systems look and function very similarly, but each is a uniquely programmed version of Windows 10. Essentially, each device type has a custom operating system developed to look and run like Windows 10.

These operating systems are fine-tuned for the type of device they are running on. You wouldn’t have a great experience using Windows 10 for desktops on a cell phone. It would be much too resource-intensive and create a real battery use issue.

So what is Windows Core OS?

Windows Core OS is a new project underway by Microsoft. Windows Core OS would create a base version of Windows that could be installed on any type of device. This is great for users and developers alike.

While it will be a long time before Core OS is available, Microsoft is already using it for testing their new Hololens and other devices they’re currently showcasing. It is also a huge part of the development for operating systems that will thrive on foldable devices and mobile devices with more than one screen.

Currently, when a new type of device comes out, like a foldable screen phone, an all-new version of Windows 10 is written specifically for the phone.

It’s programmed from the ground up and works around the device specifications and limitations to create the closest thing to a normal Windows 10 experience as possible.

While many users who use Windows 10 on multiple platforms may not notice many differences, each version requires a lot of work and each device gets a lot of attention.

Windows Core OS would change everything. Microsoft is developing Core OS to be buildable and scalable.

It would allow for a base version of Windows that would run on any device.

Whenever devices are launched with new capabilities, features can be added instead of creating an entirely new operating system. This lightweight operating system will be used on every kind of device you could think of in the not too distant future and – sooner than you think – it will also be running on a lot of devices that you probably couldn’t dream of.

Are You Still Using Microsoft Windows Server 2008?

Microsoft will stop mainstream support for Server 2008 at the end of this year. This is a popular technology solution, so the end of support creates concern for many. Read on, and we’ll explain what this means and what you should do.

What Does 2008 Server End of Life Mean For Your Company?
Windows Server 2008 end of life means that Microsoft will no longer update this product unless a warranty compels them to do so.

Unfortunately, many businesses are still not ready. The reasons vary, but many company owners stay busy running their day-to-day operations. They just don’t have time for issues like this. And yet, this is a crucial server EOL that could cause many disruptions to your business if not dealt with promptly.

How Soon Should You Get A New Server?
You need to change over from the Windows 2008 Server and Windows 2008R2 to a supported server by the end of the year. That’s the very last moment you’ll have before support is no longer available.

Migrating all of your data, applications, and other IT solutions to new servers is a time-consuming and complicated process, so small businesses should not wait until the last minute.

By waiting, you place your technology assets in danger, and you could pay more for last-minute service. Think of this as an auto repair problem. The sooner you get it fixed, the less it will typically cost. Avoid extra costs and issues by upgrading your servers now.

What Other Problems Can Happen?
An end to bug fixes and those all-important security updates may be the ultimate deal breaker for you. Data managers will tell you that not having these fixes makes your data vulnerable to access by unauthorized parties.

Cybercriminals are on the look-out for ways to infiltrate your systems and steal sensitive data, and they know about the EOL for Windows Server 2008. Since Microsoft will no longer offer security updates and bug fixes for this server, this creates numerous loopholes in data security that could be exploited.

These security breaches can be avoided by installing a newer generation server with supported security updates.

What Should You Do?
There are many reliable servers available on the market today. This new generation of servers offers better efficiency, virtualization, faster speeds, and many other good attributes. Do some research to ensure that you get a proper replacement that will address all the functions that your organization requires.

How Do You Get Ready For The Upgrade?
Installing new servers can be challenging. You have to plan out the process so that everything is done correctly and during off hours, so it doesn’t disrupt your daily operations. The sooner you start, the better.

To plan for an infrastructure upgrade, rewrite and migrate all applications based on Server 2008 to a safe storage place. The new server may require some troubleshooting. Databases can be hosted on the Windows Server 2008 hardware as you install the new system.

During the transition, put a data protection infrastructure in place that will eliminate risks during the server upgrade. This will protect your data from problems with the old server and risks associated with the new system. While this will cost extra, the fines associated with a data breach are often far more expensive.

Your Guide To Microsoft’s End Of Windows 7 Support

Thomas Fox is president of Tech Experts, southeast Michigan’s leading small business computer support company.

Support for Windows 7 is coming to end this year. The operating system is 10 years old, and in the near future, Microsoft will discontinue all support – including security updates – for this version of Microsoft Windows.

This means the end of Microsoft security updates and this means many 3rd-party security tools like anti-virus may no longer function.

“Malicious Actors” a. k. a. “Hackers” will quickly exploit any Windows 7 computer the moment security updates stop and any future security vulnerability is discovered.

Microsoft tells us that as of October 2018, about 39% of business computers are still running Windows 7. Clearly, there is a lot of work to do over the coming months to prepare businesses for the end of support of Windows 7. [Read more…] about Your Guide To Microsoft’s End Of Windows 7 Support