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Avoid Downtime: Verify Your PCs for Windows 11 Compatibility

How to plan your Win 11 transition

Arthur Gaplanyan

Windows 11 Choices For Law Firms

Windows 10 is reaching end-of-life on October 14, 2025. That means no more security updates, no more bug fixes, and no more support from Microsoft. For law firms handling sensitive client data, running an unsupported operating system is not an option. If your firm still has PCs running Windows 10, it’s time to plan for the transition to Windows 11.

Many Windows 10 machines are compatible with Windows 11. But here’s the catch: not all

Microsoft introduced stricter hardware requirements for Windows 11, and many older systems won’t make the cut. Remember, Windows 10 has been with us for a decade, so it makes sense that hardware has changed dramatically since then. Imagine the cell phone you used back in 2015. Ugh, that would not hold up today at all!

Let’s break down what you need to know to avoid surprises—and how to ensure your firm’s technology remains secure and compliant.

Windows 11’s Stricter Hardware Requirements

Upgrading to Windows 11 isn’t just about installing a new update. Your firm’s computers must meet specific hardware requirements. Most specs aren’t outrageous, but there are a few that stand out as stricter than Windows 10 required.

However, by far the most strict, and perhaps controversial, requirement is TPM 2.0. TPM 2.0 is a security feature built into modern computers (more on this in a moment).

Microsoft isn’t just suggesting their specs; they’re enforcing them. If a machine doesn’t meet these requirements, it won’t receive Windows 11 updates, even if you find a way to install it. That’s a major security risk.

TPM 2.0: The Feature That Might Block Your Upgrade

One of the biggest hurdles for law firms upgrading to Windows 11 is TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module). Many older business computers simply don’t have it—or it may not be enabled by default.

What Is TPM 2.0, and Why Does It Matter?

TPM 2.0 is a security chip that enhances encryption, protects login credentials, and ensures that your system hasn’t been tampered with. Think of it like a digital lockbox that keeps sensitive data safe.

For law firms, security is non-negotiable. TPM 2.0 helps protect against:

  • Unauthorized access to client files.
  • Ransomware attacks that lock up your data.
  • Credential theft, preventing hackers from stealing passwords.

If your firm deals with confidential case files, contracts, or sensitive client information, TPM 2.0 is critical to keeping that data safe.

How to Handle the Windows 11 Transition in Your Law Firm

So, what should your firm do to ensure a smooth upgrade? The answer depends on how old your computers are. Here’s our recommended approach:

Step 1: Identify Which Machines Need Replacing

Not all Windows 10 computers will be eligible for a Windows 11 upgrade. Here’s a simple rule of thumb:

  • 5+ years old? Replace it. Older PCs likely don’t meet Windows 11’s security and performance standards, and upgrading them isn’t worth the risk.
  • 3 years old or newer? Upgrade the operating system. Most recent business-class machines meet Windows 11’s requirements, so a simple software update should do the trick.
  • In the 4 year range? Check for TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. If these features are present, the machine can likely be upgraded. If not, replacement may be the better option.

Step 2: Assess Your Current Hardware

To check whether your firm’s PCs can upgrade:

  1. Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
  2. Look for the Windows 11 compatibility check tool.
  3. If a machine is flagged as incompatible, check the TPM status by opening Run (Win + R) and typing tpm.msc.

If TPM 2.0 is missing or disabled, you may need IT assistance to see if enabling it is an option. If not, it’s time to replace the hardware.

Step 3: Upgrade or Replace Before It’s Too Late

Waiting until the last minute is not a good strategy. Law firms depend on reliable, secure systems to operate efficiently. Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve:

  • Start evaluating your firm’s workstations now.
  • Plan for phased upgrades or replacements to avoid business disruptions.
  • Work with IT professionals to ensure a smooth migration with minimal downtime.

Don’t Wait! Plan Your Windows 11 Upgrade Now

October 2025 might seem far away, but in the world of IT, procrastination leads to chaos. A rushed transition can mean lost productivity, unexpected expenses, and security vulnerabilities. By assessing your law firm’s devices now, you can make informed decisions that keep your firm secure and running smoothly.

Key Takeaways:

  • Windows 10 support ends in October 2025—upgrading is a necessity, not a choice.
  • Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements, and some older PCs won’t be compatible.
  • TPM 2.0 is essential for security, and without it, a machine can’t run Windows 11.
  • Replace PCs over 5 years old, and upgrade newer machines that meet the requirements.
  • Start planning now to avoid last-minute IT headaches.

If your firm needs help with the transition, reach out to IT professionals who can guide you through the process. The sooner you start, the smoother your upgrade will be.