As the end of support for Windows 10 approaches, IT professionals are gearing up for the transition to Windows 11 Pro devices. This shift, while significant, brings a host of benefits and improvements, particularly in the realm of security. In this blog, we’ll explore the key points discussed in a recent webinar hosted by James Hilliard, featuring insights from Rob McGilvery of Microsoft and Eric Chong from Intel.
Understanding the Timeline
The clock is ticking, with October 14, 2025 marking the end of support for Windows 10. It’s crucial for IT departments to be aware of this date and ensure that their systems are updated to Windows 11 to avoid any disruptions.
Adoption Rates and Benefits
Enterprises are leading the charge in adopting Windows 11, with over 50% having made the transition. Small businesses, while slightly behind, are expected to catch up as they refresh their devices. The new user experience in Windows 11 has been well-received, with users spending more time on their PCs and reporting higher satisfaction.
Successful transitions have treated Windows 11 as a feature update to Windows 10, following existing servicing strategies. It’s essential to understand which devices can receive the update and plan for refreshing those that cannot.
Security Enhancements
Security is a major focus in Windows 11 Pro devices, with Microsoft adopting a chip-to-cloud approach to reduce security incidents and protect users from modern cyber threats. Microsoft is committed to putting security above all else, with devices that are secure by design and secure by default.
Additional Security Enhancements
Microsoft chip-to-cloud security approach includes three core pillars: secure by design, secure by default, and secure operations. By raising the base hardware requirements and turning on virtual-based security features by default, Microsoft has seen a 62% reduction in security incidents on Windows 11 Pro PCs compared to Windows 10 PCs.
Intel’s Meteor Lake-based platforms have evolved to help IT support the latest advancements from Microsoft in terms of Windows 11 Pro devices.
In the new class of Copilot+ PCs with Intel’s Lunar Lake chip, Microsoft has integrated the Security processor update—now delivered quickly through Windows Update. Intel’s vPro machines feature runtime BIOS resilience, which validates the firmware using certificates and hardens the memory address where the firmware is loaded. This prevents vulnerabilities during the boot-up process, ensuring that the machine is secure even before the operating system loads.
Windows 11 introduces passkey support, allowing users to log in using biometrics such as facial recognition. This enhances security by reducing reliance on passwords and protecting sensitive information. Users can also encrypt files with their biometrics, adding an extra layer of security.
Security vendors are leveraging AI to detect deep fakes, which can be run locally on the NPU. This improves performance and response time, providing a 300% improvement in detecting AI-generated audio or video.
Windows 11 introduces Windows hot patching, which allows for security updates without end-user disruption. This reduces the need for restarts and enhances productivity by delivering security updates in the background.
Conclusion
The transition to Windows 11 is not just about upgrading an operating system; it’s about enhancing security, improving productivity, and ensuring a smooth user experience on new modern Windows 11 Pro devices. IT professionals should leverage the insights shared to prepare their organizations for a successful transition.
Additionally, Connection’s Professional Services Team offers a comprehensive Windows 11 Readiness Assessment to help organizations prepare for the transition. This assessment evaluates device compatibility, identifies hardware gaps, and provides tailored recommendations to ensure optimal functionality of Windows 11 in your environment. By leveraging the expertise of Microsoft specialists and a large ecosystem of Windows 11 Pro device vendors, Connection ensures a smooth transition and maximizes productivity. Their full scope of lifecycle services includes deployment of new assets, reverse logistics, warranty and repair services, and disposal of old assets.
Click here to listen to the Navigating the Transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11: A Focus on Security.
Learn more about the key benefits and outcomes of our Readiness Assessments.
Contact your Connection Account Team to learn more.
Ashley Lofaro
Ashley is a Product Manager for Workplace Transformation at Connection. In her free time, she enjoys traveling.
