What is Windows 10 migration, and how do you implement Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration?

Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration

Microsoft has announced end of life (EOL) for Windows 7, meaning enterprises that want to continue receiving security updates and support will need to migrate their systems from Windows 7 to Windows 10 before January 14, 2020.

Although there are plenty of challenges involved in Windows 10 migration, there are many benefits for enterprises too; upgrading their systems to Windows 10 will provide enhanced OS security, new tools for a better user experience, and an opportunity to redefine their Active Directory. Overall, Windows 10 migration is a huge opportunity for enterprises to build a more stable, secure network.

In this blog, we’ll see what Windows 10 migration is, why businesses should migrate, and how they can accomplish Windows 10 migration one step at a time. However, you can also download our e-book titled ‘10 endpoint security management predictions for 2021‘ to understand how the market is evolving.

What is Windows 10 migration?  

Migrating devices from Windows 7 to Windows 10 to keep up business operations is what Windows 10 migration is all about. Since Windows 7 EOL is scheduled for early 2020, enterprises around the world are obliged to complete this migration as soon as possible.

Why should businesses start implementing Windows 10 migration?  

Whether enterprises are running Windows 7 or Windows 8, migrating to Windows 10 is a smart move. There are four main reasons why businesses should kick-start their Windows 10 migration as soon as possible:

1. Windows 10 is fast; Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 just can’t keep up. Many users report that Windows 10’s startup time is even better than the latest version of macOS.

2. The popular Windows Start button is back. On top of this, Microsoft has also enhanced touchscreen functionality for smartphones and tablets running Windows 10. Both of these updates have improved the overall user experience.

3. Microsoft has added an extra layer of protection in Windows 10 with a secure boot option, although the responsibility falls on hardware manufacturers to make their products compatible with this new feature. Windows 10 also offers Device Guard, Windows Hello, and Microsoft Passport for enhanced device security.

4. There are only a few months left before enterprises running Windows 7 find themselves with an insecure operating system on their hands. IT administrators need to prioritize Windows 10 migration to avoid exposing their enterprise to security vulnerabilities.

Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration checklist and system requirements 

Before migrating from Windows 7 to Windows 10, IT administrators need to check whether the devices they’re trying to upgrade have the system requirements below.

1. The latest version of Windows 7 or 8.1.

2. A sufficient graphics card with DirectX 9 or above.

3. At least 1GB of RAM for 32-bit systems, and at least 2GB for 64-bit.

4. Enough hard disk space for successful migration. For example, 16GB for 32-bit systems, and 20GB for 64-bit.

5. A processor with around 1GHz of processing speed.

6. A display with 800×600 or better resolution.

How to implement Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration  

Enterprises that are planning to migrate their systems in bulk can use Windows 10 migration tools. For enterprises already using SCCM, Windows 10 migration takes a couple of steps; however, with OS Deployer, this process can be completely automated. Admins can:

1. Create an OS image using online and offline imaging procedures.

2. Customize the image based on the user or department.

3. Use advanced techniques to deploy the custom image.

There are only a few months before Windows 7 reaches EOL, so download our Windows 10 migration tool now and start your Windows 7 to Windows 10 migration to avoid paying the high price for Windows 7 support. 

Perks of using ManageEngine OS deployment 

• Image and deploy OSs across the globe.

• Configure RAM usage, level of compression, and speed of imaging.

• Pick the disk partitions during imaging and schedule deployment.

• Pause, terminate, or re-initiate deployment whenever required.

• Deploy OSs regardless of the hardware manufacturer of the device.

• Leverage flexible boot options like USB, PXE, and ISO.

• Utilize advanced automated deployment options using a unique authentication passcode.

• Deploy using uni-cast and multi-cast modes.

OS Deployer comes in three editions: Free, Professional, and Enterprise. Check out our detailed edition comparison for a feature-wise breakdown.  

Download OS Deployer now, and start your Windows 10 migration right away. You can also register for a personalized demo, wherein our product experts will walk you through the challenges of migration from Windows 7 to Windows 10.