Microsoft has had a busy year. First, it announced the launch of Windows 365, a cloud streaming platform providing users with access to data and applications from anywhere. Then, the much anticipated Windows 11 launched in October, providing PC users with a significant upgrade on its previous successor, Windows 10.

The pros of both Windows 11 and Windows 365 are vast and an upgrade to either systems will significantly improve user capability and experience. For some businesses, moving to Windows 11 or 365 might now be vital as Windows is gradually relinquishing support of its Windows 7. In January 2020, Microsoft reduced support of Windows 7 and from January 2022, any business that still operates on the older system will be unable to sync files to Microsoft’s Cloud and updates will no longer be delivered to the OneDrive.

But with two modern, reliable and high performing solutions on offer, how do you know which one is best for your business?

That’s where we can help.

Windows 11

With a six-year gap between the launch of Windows 10 and Windows 11, the new operating system promises to keep businesses better connected, productive and secure and can be purchased as a monthly licence or a one-off cost.

There is no doubt about it, Windows 11 comes with a lot of positive changes, including better visuals, easy to use tools, and new features including a widgets panel. It also optimises screen space and maximises end-users screen time, so your employees can stay focussed and productive.

While its new features are excellent, businesses who have PCs that were sold before 2015 will need to upgrade their equipment if they are to choose Windows 11. This is because Windows 11 is the first operating system to require new hardware in order to operate. While Windows 10 could previously run on older devices, Windows 11 requires relatively new hardware and will not install as an upgrade on older PCs. While this the perfect opportunity to modernise IT equipment, especially if greater speed and storage is required, it is an additional cost that needs to be considered.

Windows 365

Unlike Windows 11, windows 365 is not an operating system but a subscription service meant for businesses. By utilising a pay as you go system, it means that the business only pays for what it needs when it needs it. Not only does this provide cost optimisation benefits but it allows the business to scale the service up and down as required.

At a time when organisations are increasingly moving towards hybrid working and flexible environments, Windows 365 is web-based and the first Microsoft cloud service provider licence to support and enable working from home capability. You don’t need a desktop to connect to Windows 365. You can log into the system remotely from any device, from your phone to a desktop PC, helping to keep you always connected.

By storing data in the cloud rather than locally, the end-user also benefits from greater security, allowing them to work anywhere, anytime without risk.

Making the decision

When it comes to making the choice between Windows 11 and Windows 365, there is no hard and fast rule, as both have their positives, and it is often dependant on your business’ needs and requirements.

Windows 365 has been solely designed for businesses and is more valuable to those organisations who have or are looking to adopt a hybrid way of working. However, if your end-users are coming into the office everyday and using the same PC, then the visual and high performance of Windows 11 is likely to be best suited to your end-users’ needs.

As a Microsoft Gold partner, we are on hand to help you make the right decision for your business. Our partnership enables us to leverage solutions and services that are tailored to your needs, cost-competitive and high-performing.

Speak to us today about whether Windows 11 or Windows 365 is right for you, by clicking here.