Beyond Windows 10: Preparing for a Smooth Transition to Windows 11

A smarter approach to technology upgrades

October 14, 2025 - mark the date. That’s when Windows 10 support ends, leaving businesses with a choice: upgrade to Windows 11 or risk security breaches, compliance issues, and costly disruptions. Upgrading isn’t just about installing a new operating system, it often means replacing hardware, navigating financial pressures, and balancing ESG commitments. So, how can businesses make the switch without the headache?

The risks of unsupported devices

Windows 11 only supports 64-bit systems and devices using an eighth-generation Intel Core CPU or newer. Sticking with Windows 10 beyond October 14, 2025, isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a security and compliance risk. Without Microsoft’s regular updates, businesses will face:

• Cybersecurity vulnerabilities – Unpatched systems are prime targets for hackers, increasing the risk of breaches and ransomware attacks.
• Compliance failures – Many industries have strict data security regulations. Running unsupported software can result in legal and financial penalties.
• Operational inefficiencies – Outdated systems lead to slower performance, software compatibility issues, and higher IT maintenance costs.

Although extended support is available for 12 months for US$61 per device, waiting too long could put your business at serious risk. The best strategy is to start planning your upgrade now.

Managing upgrade costs in a challenging economy

With Windows 11 on the horizon and Windows 10 support ending soon, upgrading your devices is crucial. However, the timing of this transition can be challenging, especially with ongoing economic pressures. Navigating the financial aspects of such an upgrade requires careful planning.

Leasing offers a strategic solution. Instead of committing a large portion of your capital to purchasing new devices outright, leasing allows you to spread costs over time. This enables you to maintain your working capital, ensuring your business remains financially flexible. Given the anticipated surge in demand for devices, acting early will not only help mitigate rising prices but also avoid delays associated with last-minute upgrades.

A sustainable approach to upgrading

Upgrading your technology offers more than just security and compliance benefits. It also presents an opportunity to align with growing environmental expectations. As businesses are increasingly held accountable for managing e-waste and reducing their carbon footprints, adopting a sustainable approach to technology upgrades is both a legal and ethical imperative.

Leasing helps address these challenges. By opting for leasing, businesses can reduce their environmental impact, as many providers manage the recycling or refurbishment of outdated devices, ensuring they don’t end up in landfills. This approach supports sustainability goals while helping businesses meet evolving environmental regulations.

Responsible disposal of old devices

Upgrading means dealing with outdated devices. The best approach involves careful consideration of how to manage them responsibly:

• Repurpose for non-critical tasks - Some older machines can still be effectively used for less demanding roles within the business.
• Trade-in or resale - Many leasing providers offer buy-back programs, helping recover some of the costs associated with new devices.
• Secure disposal and recycling - Compliance with e-waste regulations is essential. Leasing solutions, such as those offered by Quadrent, include responsible recycling, ensuring that outdated devices do not contribute to landfill waste.

Ensuring a seamless upgrade transition

To ensure a smooth transition, businesses should:

• Assess device compatibility - Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool to evaluate which devices require upgrades.
• Develop a structured upgrade plan - Implementing a phased approach ensures minimal disruption to operations.
• Explore cost-effective solutions - Leasing enables businesses to manage upgrade costs efficiently while maintaining compliance.

Why leasing is the smarter choice

Leasing presents a clear advantage for businesses navigating both financial and environmental challenges:

• Preserve capital - Leasing allows businesses to spread upgrade costs over time, freeing up capital for other critical investments.
• Stay ahead of compliance - Leasing agreements often include provisions for the responsible disposal of obsolete technology, ensuring businesses meet regulatory requirements.
• Support the environment - Leasing reduces the environmental impact of technology upgrades by ensuring devices are recycled, refurbished, or donated, rather than contributing to landfill waste.
• Empower communities - Quadrent’s leasing solutions allow businesses to donate devices to schools, providing students with access to technology they might otherwise lack.

Act now to avoid last-minute costs and delays

Acting now enables businesses to adopt a phased upgrade approach, avoiding the financial and operational burden of a last-minute rush. A proactive strategy will help minimise:

• Capital strain
• Business disruption
• Higher costs due to demand spikes
• Risks associated with non-compliance

At Quadrent, we work seamlessly with your preferred technology supplier to create a leasing solution tailored to your business needs. Our approach helps you navigate the upgrade with ease, while supporting your ESG goals and making a positive community impact.

Get started today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Secure your Windows 11 upgrade today with a cost-effective, sustainable leasing solution. Contact us at commercial@quadrent.co.nz to get started.

Make the smart choice for your business, the planet and the next generation—choose Quadrent.