November 2024 Update: Hardware Audit for Windows 11 Readiness

Staying Ahead of the Upgrade Curve

Microsoft is retiring Windows 10 next year. That means every machine that cannot run Windows 11 will eventually be left behind. Unsupported systems are more than just an inconvenience, they are a security risk waiting to happen.

That is why in November we performed a Hardware Audit across every supported customer environment. We manually reviewed the hardware profiles of all machines, checked them against Windows 11 requirements, and flagged the ones that would not make the cut.

Why We Do It

Upgrades are inevitable, but surprises do not have to be. By running this audit now, we gave customers time to:

• Replace aging machines before Windows 10 support disappears.
• Avoid downtime from sudden incompatibility issues.
• Plan budgets ahead of tariff increases on hardware expected next year.

Without this audit, customers could face unsupported systems, rushed last-minute purchases, or paying more for hardware due to market shifts.

How It Works

This was a hands-on audit by ITGuys staff. Here is what we did:

• Reviewed the specifications of every supported computer.
• Checked each one against Microsoft’s official Windows 11 requirements.
• Identified machines that will not support the upgrade.
• Made recommendations for replacement or upgrades where needed.

It was not automated, it was deliberate and thorough. Each machine was looked at individually to make sure nothing slipped through.

What We Found

As expected, some machines were ready for Windows 11 right out of the gate. Others, especially older systems, did not meet the requirements. Common issues included:

• Processors that were too old.
• Machines missing TPM 2.0 compatibility.
• Systems that could technically run but would not perform well on Windows 11.

By catching these issues now, we gave customers the chance to plan replacements on their schedule, not Microsoft’s.

What We Did About It

For every machine that failed the audit, we:

• Flagged it for replacement before the Windows 10 deadline.
• Recommended hardware options that balance performance, security, and cost.
• Advised customers to purchase sooner rather than later, to avoid tariff-driven price hikes expected next year.

This proactive approach means fewer surprises, smoother upgrades, and controlled costs.

The Results

By the end of November, every ITGuys customer knew exactly where they stood with Windows 11 readiness. They had clear recommendations for what to keep, what to replace, and when to act.

The result: no scrambling at the last minute, no unsupported systems, and no sticker shock when tariffs drive up hardware costs.

Why It Matters for You

This audit matters because it keeps your business moving forward without interruptions. Benefits include:

• Security: No exposure from unsupported Windows 10 systems.
• Planning: Time to budget and schedule replacements.
• Savings: Buying ahead of tariff increases.
• Performance: Upgraded machines that can handle today’s workloads.

It is about staying one step ahead of the curve instead of playing catch-up.

Looking Ahead

The Windows 10 sunset is coming fast. ITGuys will continue to guide customers through the transition, making sure no one is caught off guard. We will also keep an eye on market conditions, so upgrades happen at the right time and price.

Final Word

November was about preparation. By auditing hardware now, ITGuys gave customers the roadmap to Windows 11 readiness and the chance to act before costs rise.

The deadline is coming, but our customers are ready. Your systems will not just survive the transition, they will thrive in it.