Old hardware
As machines get older they get less reliable, and slower. It isn't usually the case that the machine itself gets slower, but rather that the applications running on the machines require more speed and resources than the older machines can offer. As in other areas, you get back what you pay for: high end servers and workstations can usually give comfortably 5 to 10 years of use; spend less and you will get less back.
End of life applications and operating systems
A major driver of IT refresh projects continues to be the end of support from Microsoft and other software vendors. Windows XP reached end of life in 2014, Windows 7 in January 2020, and Windows 10 reached end of support in October 2025. Practices should now be on Windows 11 to stay secure and compliant.
Running outdated operating systems is risky: security updates stop, leaving PCs vulnerable to attack, and it often breaches GDPR and other compliance frameworks. Application vendors, including dental PMS providers such as Software of Excellence, typically stop supporting an operating system as soon as Microsoft does (or shortly after), meaning your key software may no longer function or receive updates.
While some older hardware can be reinstalled with a supported OS, it's frequently not commercially viable due to performance, driver availability, or warranty limitations. Planning for a refresh to modern, supported Windows 11 machines ensures security, compliance, and smooth operation of your dental software.
New technology
Another driver is new technology: digital imaging upgrades, cloud-based practice management systems, modern VoIP phones and faster broadband all place new demands on your network, and a refresh is often the right moment to bring everything up to the standard the practice needs for the next five years.