You use your computer every day. It opens your email, runs your applications and gets you through your work. But when last did you check whether it is still supported, secure and suitable for what you do?
You do not need to understand the technical details. A few simple checks can help you know when to ask for advice.
Why keeping up to date matters
Updates do more than change how things look. They can fix faults, close security gaps and help your applications work together.
This applies to Windows, your browser, the applications you use and your phone. Last week’s article, why software updates matter, explains more.
The aim is to keep your technology supported and properly maintained. You do not need to buy the newest computer every year.
Still using Windows 10?
Standard support for Windows 10 Home and Pro ended on 14 October 2025. Your computer may still work, but that does not mean it is receiving the security updates it needs.
Some eligible business computers can receive limited security updates through a separate paid programme. This is a temporary option while an upgrade or replacement is planned.
If you still use Windows 10, ask your IT provider to check your computer. It may be able to move to Windows 11 without replacing the machine.
What is better about Windows 11?
Alongside using a supported version, Windows 11 offers useful everyday improvements. You can arrange email, a document and a spreadsheet neatly beside each other, then return to that group of windows. You can also open several folders as tabs in one window.
An upgrade will not necessarily make a slow computer faster. Your IT provider should check that your applications and equipment will work properly before making the change.
Windows Home or Pro: does it matter?
Both can run everyday applications. Pro adds features designed for business, including company-controlled computer sign-ins and more options for managing security settings and protecting stored information.
Home can still be used for work and has security features of its own. Pro is usually the better fit when computers need to be managed as part of a business.
“Home Single Language” is a Home edition limited to one display language. It is not a business edition.
Moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11 does not automatically give you Pro. Ask your IT provider to check which edition and licence you need before buying or upgrading.
Five things you can do
- Check your Windows version: open Settings > System > About.
- Restart when updates ask you to, at a suitable time agreed with your IT team.
- Report a computer that is regularly slow or unreliable.
- Ask before buying a new work computer—the Windows edition matters too.
- Speak to your IT provider before changing important settings or upgrading.
You may need an update, a small improvement or a replacement. A check first can help avoid unnecessary spending and disruption.
Need help checking your setup? Existing Primeworks customers can email support@primeworks.co.za. If you are not yet a customer, start with a security-review conversation.