Is it safe to upgrade to Windows 11 yet?
If you are wanting to upgrade to Windows 11 but don’t want to take the risk - either wait until you get a new PC/Laptop, as Windows 10 is still fully supported until 2025. The other options is to bring your device into Computer Clinic for a scheduled upgrade. We can make sure the upgrade process goes through smoothly (if your device supports it).
But if you want to do it yourself……….
Our Answer - It Depends
The risk of upgrading to Windows 11 from Windows 10 is much less due to the rise in Web Applications. Days of old - business systems would be applications on PC’s such as MYOB, Reckon Accounting, and more that would be very picky. Now everything runs in your Web Browser (Edge & Chrome). If Edge or Chrome are stable, then your business systems are too.
Next, Windows 11 has extremely high minimum specifications - only PC’s that have been out in the last 4 years or so are compatible.
Lastly, Windows 11 has been out since October 2021 so it has a had a long time to mature and maintain stability,
Regardless however it is still Windows at the end of the day, and by that we mean Microsoft could push an update at any time and break your system.
We have a short pros vs cons list for upgrading below.
Here are some issues that could arise by upgrading to Windows 11:
Compatibility issues: Older hardware or software may not work properly on Windows 11, causing problems with essential systems or devices.
Performance degradation: The new operating system may run slower on older devices, or cause other performance issues.
Data loss: There is always a risk of data loss during an operating system upgrade, so it's important to backup important data before proceeding.
Software incompatibility: Some applications or drivers may not work properly with Windows 11, causing issues or reduced functionality.
Security vulnerabilities: The new operating system may contain unknown security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
To counter this however, here are some benefits of upgrading:
Improved performance: Windows 11 is designed to offer improved performance and responsiveness compared to previous versions of Windows.
Enhanced user experience: Windows 11 features a redesigned user interface and new features that aim to enhance the overall user experience.
Better security: Windows 11 includes improved security features to help protect against threats and attacks.
Better compatibility: Windows 11 is designed to work with the latest hardware and software, providing better compatibility and support for new technologies.
Increased productivity: The new features and improvements in Windows 11 are aimed at increasing productivity and efficiency, making it easier to get work done.
Future-proofing: By upgrading to Windows 11, you can ensure that your device is ready for the future, with support for the latest technologies and security updates.
We have all been running Windows 11 since release and it hasn’t been as a bumpy road as we had expected.
In conclusion, we recommend either waiting to replace your current device (up until 2025), or coming in for a scheduled upgrade.
Or if you decide to bite the bullet, we can be the ambulance at the bottom of the hill if everything doesn’t go to plan :-)