Windows 11: do you need an upgrade or a refresh?

To reap the rewards of moving to the new operating system, businesses must first consider compatibility before deciding whether to upgrade existing devices or start afresh.

Since Microsoft announced Windows 11, much attention has been given to the new advanced features it offers as well as how it consolidates functions and enhances the user experience.
Learn More: Get ready for Microsoft Windows 11

If a major OS version is being released, attention should also be given to compatibility and whether businesses should replace their old technologies or upgrade their existing devices. When making this decision, businesses should consider several key factors.
The first step is to determine the system requirements for upgrading. In order to ensure a smooth and seamless user experience, it is prudent to exceed any minimum specifications.

CPU

For Windows 11, Microsoft states that users will need a central processing unit (CPU) with one gigahertz or higher and two or more cores on a 64-bit processor. Therefore, the 8th Generation Intel Core processor and its successors, as well as AMD Zen+ processors and later are compatible.
For businesses today and in the future, dynamic random access memory (DRAM) requirements are important to consider, as is whether this will work both with today’s and tomorrow’s CPUs.

RAM/DRAM

RAM/DRAM itself must have a minimum of four gigabytes. Industry-wide changes in-memory technology are another key consideration. Looking at the recent shift from 8 to 16 gigabit DRAM and its compatibility with the latest Intel CPUs may provide a definitive answer as to whether or not an organization’s devices are suitable for a Windows 11 upgrade. If they are, then this is a great opportunity to get the most out of systems by upgrading memory, and a cost-effective way of modernizing devices with Windows 11.

TPM – Mandatory for Windows 11

Prior to the announcement of Windows 11, the term Trusted Platform Module (TPM) might not have been familiar, but it is a requirement when using Windows 11. Through its integrated cryptographic key, TPM secures a computer at the hardware level, preventing any risk of attack. This then works with other applications and systems within the computer. Due to its hardware-based nature, it is considered more secure than software-only encryption. Those with TPM 2.0 or less will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11 unless they purchase and install the TPM 2.0 Module.

Solid State Drives (SSD)

SSDs are another consideration for Windows 11. While Direct Storage has been receiving a lot of attention, it is only helpful for running computer games. Due to this, the only enterprise-related requirement is that at least 64 gigabytes are required. Windows 11 is expected to overpass 50 gigabytes in size, so organizations should ensure they have sufficient storage capacity and go above and beyond minimum requirements.

Microsoft Windows 11 promises many potential benefits and appears to offer a more seamless and secure experience for computer users as well as for organizations. It depends, in part, on how compatible an organization’s existing assets are, as well as what stage of IT refresh an organization is in, whether it’s worth making the upgrade to Windows 11.

The ability to upgrade hardware may limit hardware updates as technology shifts. If you’re considering an upgrade versus a refresh, keep in mind that fewer suppliers will produce legacy technology.

In contrast, for those who are in the middle of a computer refresh cycle, this gives them the opportunity to extend the life cycle of their devices, increasing performance, security, and offering better user experiences. Businesses can upgrade memory and SSDs at a fraction of the cost of buying new devices from leading IT solutions companies in Dubai.

Whatever an organization’s requirements or needs, CAD Gulf has experts on hand to guide it on what is most suitable for your device that matches the business requirements. Whether it’s Kingston SSD, memory, USBs, or any other brand. Our

Find out whether your device(s) has TPM 2.0 by using the start menu, selecting ‘Windows Security’, ‘Device Security’, then ‘Security processor details’, and confirming the ‘Specification Version’ is 2.0. If any doubt, please consult the Windows 11 compatibility checker or contact us via our “quick quote” service.