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Step-by-Step Windows 11 Migration Checklist for UK SMEs

Use our Windows 11 Migration Checklist below. We are counting down the days until Windows 10 End of Life.

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Why a Windows 11 Migration Checklist is Essential

The Windows 11 migration checklist is essential for any UK SME that’s still relying on Windows 10. With support for Windows 10 ending in October 2025, your business has less time than you think. Delaying your upgrade comes with big risks — from cyber security threats to compliance issues.

Microsoft has made it clear: no more updates, no more security patches, no more support. Without a clear migration plan, you could end up with operational delays, unsupported systems, or worse — a data breach.

At Qual Limited, we’ve helped dozens of SMEs across the UK transition smoothly. This checklist is built around our real-world experience helping businesses like yours.

That’s why a Windows 11 migration checklist is vital. It helps you:

Identify potential risks early
Manage costs and resources efficiently
Minimise downtime for employees
Ensure full software and hardware compatibility
Maintain business continuity and security

At Qual Limited, we recommend all SMEs start their migration planning now to avoid last-minute chaos.

Step 1: Audit Your Current Windows 10 Devices

The first step in your Windows 11 migration is a thorough audit of your existing devices. This means:

Audit Your Current Windows 10 Devices?
Are they business-critical machines?
Are any of them due for replacement anyway?

Use an asset inventory tool or manual spreadsheet to gather:

Device make and model
OS version
Serial numbers
Assigned users
Age and performance of hardware

Identifying your estate is the foundation of any Windows 11 migration checklist.

Step 2: Check Hardware Compatibility with Windows 11

Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than previous versions. The most important include:

TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)
Secure Boot enabled
4GB RAM minimum (8GB+ recommended)
64-bit CPU with at least 1GHz speed, 2 or more cores

Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool or ask Qual Limited to run a full compatibility check across your estate.

Tip: Older devices may still run, but could miss critical features or updates — risking performance or security.

Step 3: Evaluate Security Requirements

Windows 11 isn’t just a facelift — it’s built around modern security. Migrating gives you the chance to:

Enable full disk encryption (BitLocker)
Strengthen identity management with Windows Hello and MFA
Use application control and endpoint detection
Turn on virtualisation-based security (VBS)

Think of the Windows 11 migration checklist as a chance to reset your entire security approach.

Step 4: Build a Budget and Timeline

Costs vary depending on how many endpoints need upgrades, hardware replacements, licensing, and whether you’re using internal staff or outsourcing.

Key items to budget:

New hardware for incompatible devices
Software licensing (Microsoft 365, line-of-business apps)
Training and support
ITAD and recycling logistics

Qual Limited offers Tech-as-a-Service (TaaS) plans and flexible financing to reduce capital expenditure. Spreading costs over time keeps your project manageable.

Step 5: Plan for Data Backups and Continuity

Never start a migration without a backup plan.

Create a full backup of every system
Test your restore procedures
Use cloud storage where possible (OneDrive, SharePoint)

In your Windows 11 migration checklist, this step ensures you don’t lose critical data during rollouts.

Step 6: Choose Your Migration Approach

There are two main options:
Inplace upgrade

Keeps user data and apps
Quicker and less disruptive
Only available on compatible machines

Clean install

Starts fresh with new OS and apps
Ideal for security, performance, or hardware changes
Can be done using deployment tools (like Microsoft Endpoint Manager)

Your approach depends on how clean you want your upgrade to be, your business size, and how much downtime is acceptable.

Step 7: Communicate with Staff and Set Expectations

Change is hard — especially when it comes to the tech your team uses daily. Let users know:

What’s happening and why?
When their devices will be affected?
What new features or benefits to expect?
How to get support?

Include key dates in your internal rollout plan. Use this Windows 11 migration checklist to train staff and provide a smooth handover.

Step 8: Begin the Rollout – Monitor Closely

Roll out the migration in phases:

Start with pilot groups — maybe IT or low-risk departments
Gather feedback and resolve any bugs
Continue with remaining teams in waves

Keep an eye on:

App compatibility
Driver issues
Network performance
User feedback

It’s not just about getting Windows 11 installed — it’s about ensuring it works reliably.

Step 9: IT Asset Disposal and Buy-Back Programmes

Old Windows 10 devices need proper handling. Leaving them in a cupboard creates:

GDPR compliance issues
Unused costs in electricity and maintenance
Missed savings through resale or reuse

Qual Limited runs ITAD (IT Asset Disposal) services and Buy-Back Schemes — helping you:

Recover value from old tech
Stay compliant with data handling
Reinvest in your IT budget

This makes your Windows 11 migration checklist greener, smarter, and more cost-efficient.

How Qual Limited Supports Your Windows 11 Migration

At Qual Limited, we specialise in helping UK SMEs navigate the Windows 10 end of life transition smoothly. Our services include:

Expert audits of Windows 10 environments
Compatibility and risk assessments
Device upgrades or full replacement services
Budget-friendly leasing and TaaS options
Data backup and IT continuity plans
Friendly, jargon-free end-user training
Ongoing support after the switch

We’re not just ticking boxes — we’re your partner through the entire transition. Use our help to eliminate the stress and risk of DIY upgrades.

FAQs About Windows 11 Migration Checklist

Do all my devices need to move to Windows 11?

Yes. Devices that stay on Windows 10 past October 2025 will become unsupported and vulnerable

What if some of my hardware doesn’t meet the requirements?

You’ll need to replace or repurpose incompatible machines. We can help with affordable upgrades and buy-back schemes.

Can I use Windows 11 without the internet?

Yes, but most features, updates, and protections rely on being connected.

Is Windows 11 more secure?

Yes — thanks to TPM, Secure Boot, and built-in protection tools like Microsoft Defender and Copilot.

Will my current software still work?

Most modern apps are compatible, but older ones may need updates or alternatives.

Can you help with training my team?

Absolutely. We provide clear, easy-to-understand training so staff can get the most out of the upgrade.

Start Your Windows 11 Migration Today With Qual Limited

Don’t wait until Windows 10 end of life causes costly security risks or business disruption. Use this Windows 11 migration checklist to plan and prepare now.

Get in touch with Qual Limited, your trusted UK technology partner, to discuss how we can make your migration smooth, affordable, and secure.

Book your IT estate audit
Explore upgrade and financing options
Learn about our ITAD and buy-back services

Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your Windows 11 journey now and future-proof your business.

Read our other blogs on how to prepare for Windows 10 end of life and understanding the windows 10 security risks.

Qual Limited: Your Trusted IT Fulfilment Partner

At Qual Limited, we specialise in streamlining IT procurement and fulfilment for businesses of all sizes. Our approach includes:

A dedicated Personal Account Manager to handle your IT needs
End-to-end procurement support, from vendor selection to delivery
Strategic cost-saving solutions tailored to your budget
Access to an extensive network of global IT vendors

With 30 years of experience, we understand the challenges of IT procurement and provide customised solutions to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce costs, and improve IT fulfilment speed.

Book a Consultation & Optimise Your Windows 11 migration Today

Windows 11 migration doesn’t have to be complex. Qual Limited simplifies the entire process, ensuring you get the right IT solutions at the right price, without the usual frustrations and delays.

Book a consultation today with your dedicated Personal Account Manager and discover how we can streamline IT procurement, enhance efficiency, and drive cost savings.

Book your consultation now and take the stress away from the Windows 11 migration with Qual Limited