Why You Should Upgrade Your Hardware Sooner Rather than Later

With new tariffs on imports looming and Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in the near future, now is the time to reconsider your organization’s hardware needs. 

While it might feel convenient to wait until the last possible moment, there are compelling reasons to act sooner—both for cost savings and to avoid future system vulnerabilities. We break down why these changes matter and how you can protect your business by upgrading now.

Anticipated Tariffs: A Potential Price Hike on the Horizon

The announcement of potential tariffs on imported technology components means the cost of various hardware components—including servers, desktops, laptops, and other critical parts—could increase. Higher tariffs directly affect the bottom line for manufacturers, resellers, and ultimately, end customers like you.

The Impact:

• Higher Prices: When tariffs increase, so do costs. The longer you wait, the higher the probability of paying a premium for the same hardware you can get today at a lower price
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• Supply Chain Disruption: Tariffs can strain global supply chains, causing possible shortages or longer lead times. If you plan on installing or upgrading new systems for your team, it’s wise to lock in your purchase before these potential disruptions take hold.
  
  
• Budgeting Challenges: Sudden hardware price hikes could force you to stretch—or completely revise—your IT budget. By acting now, you protect yourself from unexpected cost overruns later.
  
  

End of Windows 10 Support: A Security and Productivity Concern

Microsoft has committed to supporting Windows 10 until a fixed date, after which it will no longer provide updates, bug fixes, or security patches. This cutoff might seem far away, but as we’ve seen with previous Windows releases, the transition period comes up faster than most organizations anticipate.

The Impact:

• Increased Vulnerability: Without regular security patches, your systems could be exposed to newly discovered threats—potentially putting sensitive data and operations at risk.
  
  
• Compatibility Issues: As technology evolves, software vendors will begin to optimize and develop their applications for newer operating systems. Over time, you could face performance issues or reduced functionality if you remain on an outdated OS.
  
  
• Compliance Risks: Certain industries have strict regulatory standards around data protection. Running end-of-life software can lead to non-compliance and financial penalties.
  
  

5 Steps to Take Right Now

1. Assess Your Current Hardware: Conduct a quick inventory of your PCs, servers, and peripherals. Identify those running on aging components or on the cusp of needing an upgrade.
2. Evaluate Your OS Rollout Strategy: Determine which systems can migrate to a newer version of Windows and whether it makes sense to replace some hardware entirely.
3. Budget Accordingly: Factor in the possibility of higher costs due to tariffs. Build a comprehensive budget and timeline that accounts for potential price increases.
4. Plan Deployment: Whether you’re refreshing a handful of devices or an entire fleet, make sure your IT department has a clear deployment plan to minimize disruptions.
5. Consult with Experts: If you’re unsure about the best upgrade path, talk to a trusted IT partner. They can help you evaluate your hardware needs, project costs, and timeline.

Don’t Wait: Secure Your Hardware Before Prices Rise

Taking a proactive approach to hardware and OS upgrades will minimize risk, stabilize your budget, and ensure your operations continue running smoothly. The looming tariffs and the end of Windows 10 support aren’t just industry buzz—they’re real events that will impact availability, security, and costs.

If you’re looking for guidance on navigating these changes, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in outfitting businesses with the right hardware solutions at the right time. We’ll work with you to:

• Identify which devices need replacing
• Plan a seamless OS migration
• Develop a procurement strategy to avoid excessive tariff-related price hikes

Don’t let these impending changes catch you off guard. Contact us today to secure your hardware upgrades and safeguard the future of your operations. By acting now, you’ll protect your bottom line, maintain a secure IT environment, and ensure your team stays productive.