Windows 7 became beloved as an operating system, and for good reason. It improved on its predecessor by upping speed and stability, as well as reducing non-essential programmes and improving the interface. Windows 10, the most recent version of Windows, has built upon the look and feel of Windows 7 with an even better performance capability.
However, there are some common misconceptions about Windows 10 that are still leaving businesses hesitant to upgrade their IT. This blog will address these misconceptions and explain why making the shift a modern desktop is a great opportunity to innovate across your entire organisation.“My small business isn’t at risk from security threats or hackers.”
Actually, half of small businesses have experienced a data breach in the last 12 months. Windows 7 is nearly a decade old, which leaves it vulnerable to new and emerging security threats. To take the best possible care of your data and networks and effectively protect your business, you need to run the latest version of Windows on all your devices.
In recent years, cybersecurity has become much more elaborate. Using outdated software will leave you vulnerable to data breaches and hackers. Once you’ve upgraded to Windows 10, you’ll be able to stay protected with automatic updates, meaning your operating system is always protected and up to date. A modern desktop running Microsoft 365 on a new device is the best way to ensure your business can remain safe as well as competitive.
“I don’t want to risk losing my information or finding out my apps are incompatible.”
99% of Windows 7 apps are compatible with Windows 10 – the way you work is important, and Windows 10 was built to fit around your business. If you find that there’s an app that Windows 10 doesn’t have a driver for, additional drivers for Windows 7 or 8 can often be installed. When you move to Microsoft 365, the best way to make sure your information stays safe is by backing it up.
If you’re looking to purchase new devices, this is the perfect time to think about finding more flexible and innovative options. Microsoft Surface devices have been designed to help you boost your productivity with hybrid laptop-tablet functionality and seamlessly connected apps and services.
Once you’ve migrated to the cloud, your data is stored by Microsoft across multiple servers on multiple databases. These are all regularly backed up, so if there’s a power failure or a data breach, your data will remain secure.
“The cloud isn’t a priority for our business because remote working isn’t productive.”
Part of business success is embracing new practices and workstyles, and remote working is becoming increasingly popular. Many businesses have adopted it because productivity can be hindered by extended office hours. Greater flexibility can improve employee morale, which in turn boosts productivity and reduces employee turnover.
Dispelling the myth that remote working isn’t productive is an opportunity for businesses who have the chance to embrace cloud-based data storage and enable their team to work flexibly. Surface devices offer the same suite of apps as Windows 7, but optimise them for both offline and online collaboration. To embrace the future of flexible working, Windows 10 on Surface devices is the perfect choice for businesses of any size.
“It’ll be too expensive to upgrade – my business can’t afford it.”
Investing in new hardware is one of the most cost-efficient choices you can make. By improving productivity, eliminating spend on the maintenance of old hardware and improving employee morale, this investment is one of the most valuable you can make as a small business.
Microsoft 365 is a unified hardware and software package that allows you to purchase and deploy Surface devices with minimal downtime. Including Office 365 and Enterprise & Security, Microsoft 365 allows you to fluidly update your OS in real time, while remaining secure and productive. With flexible plans available and tailored price plans, Microsoft 365 and Surface devices are an investment that will continue to deliver value to your business for years to come.
“Buying new devices isn’t worth it, even if I upgrade to Windows 10.”
Modern devices are essential for making the most of cloud-based technology. The benefits of real-time communication and collaboration are greatly improved by portable devices.
Spending time maintaining old devices can lose you up to 48 hours of productive employee time per PC, so investing in modern devices is the perfect way to optimise your business performance. The Surface devices can save time for workers by improving their productivity, which make them an excellent choice for businesses who want to purchase quality hardware that will last.
Embracing the modern workplace with Microsoft 365 + Surface
Where Windows 7 offered an operating system, Microsoft 365 is an entire package that offers Windows 10, Office 365 and Enterprise Mobility + Security. Instead of purchasing a product or license, Microsoft 365 is a subscription service. Office 365 operates from the cloud, automatically updating your apps and offering intelligent capabilities like data insights.
Microsoft 365 also comes with the necessary enterprise-grade security to protect your business data, leaving you able to choose the hardware and subscription that best suit you, without worrying about migrating to the cloud. To find out more about how Windows 10 and Microsoft 365 are the best choice for your business, download our eBook today.
Written by Sabrina Gosney (Microsoft Alliance Manager)
