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TechTidBit – Tips and advice for small business computing – Tech Experts™ – Monroe Michigan

TechTidBit - Tips and advice for small business computing - Tech Experts™ - Monroe Michigan

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Windows

The Clock Is Ticking: Preparing Your Business For Windows 10 End-of-Life

July 22, 2025

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

The end of official support for Windows 10 is approaching rapidly, with Microsoft setting the sunset date for October 14, 2025. While that may seem distant, the implications for small and mid-sized businesses are immediate. This change is not simply a routine software update: It is a critical juncture that requires deliberate planning and action.

Understanding the business risk

Once Windows 10 reaches its end of life, Microsoft will stop issuing security patches, system updates, and technical support. This places any business still using the operating system at heightened risk for cyberattacks, compliance violations, and operational disruptions.

For businesses operating in regulated industries – such as healthcare, financial services, legal, or manufacturing – these risks carry significant weight. Running unsupported systems could jeopardize compliance with frameworks like HIPAA, FINRA, and CMMC. It may also raise red flags during cybersecurity insurance reviews and increase premiums or deny claims following a breach.

In addition to security concerns, unsupported operating systems can create incompatibility with newer software, degrade performance, and reduce the reliability of day-to-day operations. The cost of unplanned downtime or data loss often exceeds the investment required to modernize outdated infrastructure.

Windows 11: The next step – with caveats

Upgrading to Windows 11 is the natural path forward. However, Windows 11 is not simply a cosmetic update. It introduces stricter hardware requirements that may render many current business machines ineligible for upgrade.

The minimum system requirements for Windows 11 include:

  • A compatible 64-bit processor (Intel 8th Gen or AMD Ryzen 2000 series and newer)
  • 4 GB RAM (8 GB or more recommended)
  • 64 GB of storage
  • UEFI firmware with Secure Boot
  • TPM version 2.0
  • DirectX 12-compatible graphics with WDDM 2.0 driver

These requirements are significant, especially for businesses with aging fleets of desktops and laptops. According to recent industry estimates, nearly 40% of business PCs currently in use do not meet the minimum standard for Windows 11. This means replacement, not just an upgrade, may be necessary.

Why planning needs to start now

Delaying planning can lead to rushed purchases, limited hardware availability, and unnecessary business interruptions. Instead, organizations should begin with a full inventory of current systems to identify which devices are eligible for upgrade and which will require replacement.

It is advisable to phase replacements over time to manage costs and avoid overwhelming staff with abrupt changes. Partnering with a trusted IT service provider can ensure the transition is managed efficiently, minimizing downtime and disruptions.

Early planning also provides an opportunity to align new hardware investments with long-term IT strategies, including cloud integration, mobility, and security enhancements.

Looking ahead

Technology lifecycles should never be left to chance. The Windows 10 end-of-life deadline is more than a date – it is a call to evaluate the state of IT readiness across the organization.

Businesses that take proactive steps now will avoid reactive scrambles later, preserving both security and continuity.

Why Sticking With Windows 10 Could Put Your Business At Risk

July 22, 2025

Windows 10 has been a reliable workhorse for businesses for nearly a decade, but its time is running out. Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and if your business is still relying on it after that date, you could be opening the door to serious financial, operational, and legal risks.

While it may seem easier (and cheaper) to delay an upgrade, the reality is that the cost of doing nothing can far exceed the cost of migrating to a supported system. Let’s take a look at why.

No more security updates = new threats every day

Once Windows 10 reaches end-of-life, Microsoft will stop releasing critical security updates. That means new vulnerabilities will be discovered by hackers – and left unpatched.

Cybercriminals actively look for outdated systems to exploit. It’s not a matter of if your business will be targeted – it’s a matter of when. And when that happens, you’re on your own.

A data breach or ransomware attack can bring your business to a halt, costing thousands in downtime, lost data, and recovery efforts – not to mention damage to your reputation.

Compliance risks: A lawsuit waiting to happen

If you’re in a regulated industry like healthcare, finance, legal, or government, continuing to use an unsupported operating system could put you out of compliance with major regulations like:

  • HIPAA (Healthcare)
  • PCI-DSS (Payment Processing)
  • GDPR (General Data Protection)
  • GLBA (Finance and Banking)

Many of these frameworks require the use of supported, up-to-date software to ensure sensitive information is protected. If you suffer a breach while running Windows 10 after support ends, you could face hefty fines and legal action for failing to maintain compliance.

Real-world risks: Lessons from the past

We’ve seen this story before. When Windows 7 went end-of-life in 2020, many businesses chose to wait. A Michigan medical practice that delayed upgrading was later hit with a ransomware attack that exposed patient records. The practice was fined $150,000 for HIPAA violations – and spent months rebuilding systems and trust.

Outdated systems don’t just make headlines – they make victims.

Total cost of ownership: It’s more expensive than you think

At first glance, keeping old systems may seem cost-effective. But when you factor in the hidden costs – security breaches, downtime, lost productivity, non-compliance fines, and expensive emergency IT support – the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) for unsupported systems skyrockets.
Modern systems are faster, more secure, and easier to manage.

Over time, they reduce your risk and lower your maintenance costs, making them a smarter investment.

Hidden productivity drain

Old systems don’t just create risk – they slow your team down. Unsupported systems often struggle with performance, compatibility, and reliability.

That translates into lost time, frustration, and inefficiency, especially when employees can’t access the tools or software they need.

If your team is spending 15-30 minutes a day dealing with tech issues, multiply that by every employee, every day. Over a year, it adds up to a massive loss in productivity – and profit.

It’s time to plan ahead

Upgrading from Windows 10 isn’t just a technical decision – it’s a business decision.

Whether you’re a five-person law firm, a small medical office, or a local manufacturing shop, staying on Windows 10 past its end-of-life is a gamble that could cost you far more than an upgrade.

At Tech Experts, we help small businesses like yours plan secure, cost-effective transitions to modern systems – without disruption.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to protect your business, stay compliant, and keep moving forward.

Windows 10 Is Retiring – Here’s What Your Business Needs to Know

June 17, 2025

October 14 is a date you don’t want to ignore. That’s the day Microsoft officially stops supporting Windows 10.

What does that mean? No more security updates. No more bug fixes. No more help when something breaks. Your computers won’t suddenly stop working – but they will become much more vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Outdated systems are hacker bait.

Cybercriminals love businesses that don’t upgrade on time. Once Microsoft pulls the plug on Windows 10 updates, any newly discovered holes in the system stay wide open. Malware, ransomware, data theft – it all becomes easier. If your business handles sensitive data or customer info, staying on Windows 10 could even land you in legal trouble.

You could pay for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) – but it’ll cost you. $61 per device the first year, doubling each year to $427 per device by year three. That’s a pricey way to avoid a real solution.

So what’s the right move?

If your computers are compatible, upgrading to Windows 11 is free. It’s more secure, faster, and better for multitasking. But not every Windows 10 machine can make the jump.

Start with a compatibility check. Download Microsoft’s free PC Health Check tool and run it on each device. If the message says the PC doesn’t meet requirements, don’t panic. Sometimes a small setting (like enabling TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot) is all that’s needed. In other cases, especially with older machines, replacement may be the only path forward.

Why upgrading now matters:

Waiting until the deadline creates a storm of problems – rushed decisions, unavailable hardware, staff confusion, downtime. Planning ahead means you can upgrade on your terms, not in a crisis.

Plus, Windows 11 brings serious benefits:

Stronger security: Built-in protections like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot block modern threats before they start.

Better multitasking: New tools like Snap Layouts make it easier to juggle emails, spreadsheets, and documents.

Built-in Microsoft Teams: Collaboration is easier with Teams integrated directly into the taskbar.

Performance boost: Windows 11 uses system resources more efficiently, meaning faster boot-ups and smoother workflows.

Here’s your quick upgrade checklist:

  • Run the PC Health Check on all business machines.
  • Back up your data – files, emails, settings – before doing anything.
  • Test your critical software and hardware for Windows 11 compatibility.
  • Schedule the upgrade during a low-impact time.
  • Train your team on what’s new to minimize disruption.
  • Have IT support lined up to help with any snags along the way.

Need help? That’s what we’re here for.

We’ll take care of the entire process – device checks, upgrade planning, installations, and post-upgrade support – so your team stays focused and your business stays secure.

Don’t wait until the deadline. Let’s get ahead of it, together.

Act Now: The Clock Is Ticking For Windows 10

January 13, 2025

Still using Windows 10? It’s time to start planning for a big change. Microsoft has announced that this October will mark the end of support for the operating system.

That means no more security updates, no bug fixes, and no technical support.

While your computers won’t suddenly stop working, staying on Windows 10 after its end-of-life date could put your business at serious risk.

Without regular updates, your systems will be more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Cyber criminals love to exploit old, unsupported systems because they know the weaknesses won’t be fixed. If you handle sensitive customer data or financial information, this is a huge red flag.

On top of that, software compatibility could become a problem. New applications will be designed with Windows 11 and future systems in mind, meaning your current setup might not be able to keep up.

The result? Slower workflows or even critical tools that stop working entirely. And if something goes wrong, you’ll be on your own – Microsoft won’t be there to help.

But Windows 11 is here, and it’s built to make your business run more smoothly. From stronger security features to smarter productivity tools, the upgrade is packed with benefits… and it’s free!

Before making the move, you’ll need to check if your current computers meet the requirements for Windows 11. Not all Windows 10 devices will be compatible, but it’s easy to find out using Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool.

If some devices don’t make the cut, it might be time to invest in new hardware. While that sounds like a big step, newer machines offer better performance and security, saving you headaches down the line.

The key to a smooth transition is starting early. Back up your data, check compatibility, and plan your upgrade timeline so it doesn’t disrupt your team.

Making the move now means you’ll avoid scrambling later. And of course, you’ll set your business up for success with a system designed for the future.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to begin, we can help every step of the way. Get in touch.

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

September 16, 2024

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

August 14, 2024

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)

July 12, 2024

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?

March 26, 2024

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

July 26, 2021

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?

May 30, 2020

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.

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