1. Upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 11 is Microsoft’s newest operating system, aimed at enhancing hybrid work, security, and productivity. It features an updated user interface, improved virtual desktop support, and enhanced integration with Microsoft 365 and AI tools such as Copilot.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced security: TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are baseline requirements.
• Improved performance: Optimised for newer hardware and more energy efficient.
• Modern features: Integration with Microsoft Copilot, snap layouts, and better multitasking.

Considerations:

• Hardware compatibility: Many existing devices may not meet Windows 11’s minimum system requirements. This can lead to a significant hardware refresh cycle.
• Change management: New features and interface changes may require user training and updated IT policies.
• Cost: Licensing is straightforward, but combined hardware and training investments must be planned.

If you have modern, compliant hardware and operate primarily in a traditional desktop environment, upgrading to Windows 11 is the most straightforward option.

2. Transition to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Azure Virtual Desktop is Microsoft’s cloud-based desktop and application virtualisation platform. It enables users to securely access a Windows desktop from any device, anywhere, with centralised management and built-in scalability.

Key Benefits:

• No hardware dependency: Run Windows 11 in the cloud even on legacy or non-Windows devices.
• Scalability and flexibility: Ideal for remote, hybrid, or global teams.
• Centralised control: Easier to manage security, updates, and application access across the organisation.
• Cost efficiency: The pay-as-you-go model can reduce the total cost of ownership, especially for short-term or seasonal users.

Considerations:

• Cloud readiness: AVD relies on solid networking and identity infrastructure (like Azure AD and Intune).
• User experience: Performance depends on internet bandwidth and latency—this means it won’t always be the ideal solution.
• Licensing complexity: Requires Microsoft 365 licenses with virtualisation rights, plus Azure consumption fees.

3. Hybrid Approach

Many organisations may find a hybrid approach of the above two options more practical—upgrading frontline and core devices to Windows 11 while migrating part of the workforce (such as contractors, remote staff, or offshore teams) to AVD.

This allows you to:

• Extend the life of older hardware via AVD
• Test and scale cloud-based models gradually
• Align IT strategy with business growth and evolving work patterns

4. Windows 10 Extended Security Update Programme

Organisations that require continued use of Windows 10 beyond October 2025 have one final temporary option: the Extended Security Update (ESU) program. This program provides critical security updates for up to three additional years after the conclusion of the extended support date.

This programme is available for purchase for Windows 10 for those who don’t manage to migrate off in time. You can find more information on the Windows extended security update programme here.

Key Benefits:

• Access to security updates, even if you have not migrated off Windows 10
• No additional cost for Windows 10 virtual machines
• No minimum purchase requirement

Considerations:

• Devices must be running Windows 10, version 22H2
• It is an expensive route at $61 per device in the first year, and double the price for each consecutive year