January sales can be tempting when you are looking to replace your hardware. What appears to be a bargain, may end up being a liability!……………………………………………………………………..

Windows 10 will no longer be supported after October 2025. Older hardware that no longer meets the requirements of Windows 11 will need to be replaced. Don’t leave it until the last minute, demand for replacement hardware will drive up the prices in October.

This time of year, the pile them high, sell them cheap retailers have some great bargains, but I would argue these devices on the whole are geared towards domestic IT users and as a business user, there should be additional considerations. The main two being Encryption and Hardware support. Most domestic machines are sold with Windows Home pre-installed, to keep the prices low. Windows Home, doesn’t allow you to encrypt your data on the device. This may leave you in breach of your own privacy policy!

The second consideration is Hardware Support. Normally domestic hardware, will only have a 12 month, return to manufacturer warranty. This may leave you without a machine to work with, if it has to go back to the manufacturer.
Off the shelf business machines may include a “3 year” “on-site” “Next business day” warranty. Its important to do your research before making the considered purchase.

If you have purchased hardware that has Windows Home installed, you may still have the option to undertake an inline upgrade to Windows Pro, at an additional cost. https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/upgrade-windows-home-to-windows-pro-ef34d520-e73f-3198-c525-d1a218cc2818
After the upgrade, you will still have a machine that will have no support after the initial 12 months and may end up becoming an additional paper weight.

In conclusion,
Spend once, spend right. While it might be tempting to cut costs by purchasing cheap hardware, this approach can backfire. Stick with a well know off the shelf brand. Speak to your service provider about the specification of the hardware you are considering to purchase, they may be able to advise if this is suitable for your business requirements.

If you are still looking to replace your business hardware with a high street retailer, here is your check list.
Windows 11 Pro.
Modern I5 processor or equivalent.
16Gb Ram.
256Gb SSD.

Have a great Christmas and see you in 2025.
Mark IT Lifeline