Yes. Dental practices should have a plan to upgrade or replace computers running unsupported versions of Windows. Microsoft ended standard support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, meaning most Windows 10 computers no longer receive regular operating-system security updates unless covered by an applicable Extended Security Updates (ESU) program.
For dental practices with 10-40 employees, unsupported computers can create cybersecurity risks, compatibility problems, and unnecessary interruptions.
Use this four-step framework:
Identify → Evaluate → Upgrade → Protect
1. Identify Computers Running Unsupported Windows Versions
Start by creating an inventory of the computers throughout your practice.
Include:
- Front-desk computers
- Operatory workstations
- Imaging computers
- Administrative computers
- Laptops
- Computers connected to specialized dental equipment
Record the operating system, computer age, warranty status, and primary applications.
Pay particular attention to older computers that rarely receive updates because they're connected to specialized equipment.
The first question is simple: How many computers are running unsupported software?
2. Evaluate Dental Software Compatibility
Before upgrading a computer, confirm that the dental applications and equipment it supports are compatible with the new operating system.
That may include:
- Dentrix
- Dexis
- Open Dental
- Eaglesoft
- Panoramic X-ray equipment
- Intraoral scanners
- Other dental imaging applications
Some equipment depends on specific drivers or software versions.
Upgrading Windows without checking compatibility could interrupt important clinical workflows.
Your IT provider should coordinate with dental technology vendors before making changes.
3. Upgrade or Replace Aging Computers
Not every computer needs to be replaced.
Some may support Windows 11 after compatibility checks. Others may require replacement because of hardware limitations or age.
Windows 11 has specific requirements, including a compatible processor, Secure Boot capability, and TPM 2.0.
As a general budgeting guideline, dental practices can evaluate workstation replacement on a 3-5-year cycle, adjusting for reliability, performance, and clinical requirements.
Prioritize computers that are:
- Running unsupported operating systems
- Experiencing frequent problems
- Unable to support required dental applications
- Outside warranty
- Too old to meet current security requirements
If a specialized imaging workstation cannot be upgraded immediately, work with the equipment vendor and IT provider to develop a documented transition and risk-reduction plan.
4. Protect the Practice During the Transition
Replacing computers should be planned around patient appointments and daily operations.
Before making changes:
- Verify that important data is backed up
- Confirm software licensing and installation requirements
- Coordinate with dental vendors
- Test imaging and practice-management applications
- Configure cybersecurity protections
- Verify employee access
- Schedule changes to minimize disruption
The goal is not simply to install Windows 11.
It's to maintain secure, reliable access to the systems your dental team uses every day.
The 5-Question Windows Readiness Check
Ask:
- How many computers still run Windows 10?
- Are those computers receiving applicable security updates?
- Will our dental software and imaging systems work with Windows 11?
- Which computers should be upgraded versus replaced?
- Do we have a replacement plan that minimizes patient disruption?
If you don't know the answers, it's time for a workstation assessment.
Why Dental Practices Choose IT Services of Utah
IT Services of Utah has supported businesses for more than 30 years and works with dental practices throughout St. George and Washington County, Utah.
Our team understands dental environments involving Dentrix, Dexis, Open Dental, Eaglesoft, panoramic X-ray equipment, intraoral scanners, workstations, servers, and networks.
We provide fast remote assistance, local on-site support, live phone answering, and an internal support team that can coordinate technology upgrades with dental software and equipment vendors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Windows 10 computers stop working?
No. They can continue operating, but unsupported systems generally no longer receive regular security updates. Applicable ESU coverage may provide temporary protection for eligible devices.
Does every dental computer need Windows 11?
Not necessarily. Some specialized systems may use other supported operating systems. The important requirement is to maintain vendor-supported, appropriately secured technology.
Should we replace every computer at once?
Not always. A phased replacement plan can spread costs and minimize disruption, provided security risks are addressed appropriately.
Is Your Dental Practice Still Using Windows 10?
Don't wait for an aging workstation to interrupt a patient appointment or create a preventable security concern.
Remember:
Identify. Evaluate. Upgrade. Protect.
For dental practices with 10-40 employees in St. George and Washington County, Utah, IT Services of Utah can help identify unsupported computers, review dental software compatibility, and develop a practical upgrade plan.
Schedule a Dental Workstation & Windows Readiness Assessment with IT Services of Utah to determine which computers need attention first.
