Many dental practices using Windows Operating Systems are by now most likely aware that Microsoft will be ending support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. In this blog post, we are going to cover the following:
- What does “end of support” mean for software/operating systems?
- Why update to Windows 11 sooner than later?
- Why it’s important for ABELDent users to update to Version 15
- Planning your transition to Windows 11 ahead of time
What does “end of support” mean for software/operating systems?
“End of support” is a term Microsoft uses when a specific product reaches a point where it will no longer receive updates for security, bug fixes, or new features. This is typically ten years after the product’s initial release.
As a product approaches “end of support,” it is time to plan an update to a version that still benefits from active safeguards. As mentioned in our previous blog post, continuing to use the outdated version puts your computer at risk of falling victim to a cyberattack and, by extension, risks jeopardizing patient Protected Health Information (PHI) and practice data.
ABELDent is making readers aware of the coming end of life for Windows 10 well in advance of the end of support date to ensure that they have time to plan and ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Why update to Windows 11 sooner than later?
As we mentioned in our last blog post, continuing to use an out-of-date software version when there are newer versions available may put your practice at unnecessary risk. You can miss out on potentially important security patches that protect your software. Keeping all your software and systems updated to the newest versions helps ensure your practice’s security by patching vulnerabilities. This adds a crucial layer of security to your practice defenses.
Updating to Windows 11 means your other software will have better opportunities for improved integration and compatibility. Continuing to use an outdated and unsupported operating system oftentimes means you are using a slower, less efficient version of the same operating system. New capabilities in Windows 11 can complement the other software you use in your practice, including your dental software. Keeping all your systems up to date helps you to get the most out of them all, for the benefit of your practice and your patients. Regular updates are important for maintaining software stability and preventing issues when using the program, ensuring you have a smooth experience.
In short, upgrading your practice’s operating systems to Windows 11 improves your practice’s cybersecurity via security patches and also helps streamline your practice workflows. The new operating system offers improved performance and features tailored for productivity, making it easier for staff members to manage their tasks effectively throughout the day.
ABELDent Users – Update to Version 15
In tandem with updating your operating system, now is a great time to double-check the rest of the software your practice uses for updates. If you are an ABELDent user, we encourage you to ensure that you are using ABELDent 15, the latest available version. This version is a modern, state-of-the-art update that is designed for heightened security, especially when installed on computers running Windows 11. The ABELDent v15 update is available in cloud and local server options, for greater flexibility.
While the ABELDent team continues to support some older ABELDent versions, due to technical change, the previous versions cannot offer the same security protections as ABELDent v15, particularly if you continue to use an operating system beyond its end of support date.
Some core benefits of updating to ABELDent v15 include:
1. Enhanced productivity
ABELDent v15 has numerous features that are not found in previous versions that can save your team time.
2. Improved security
ABELDent v15 offers stronger defense via regular security patches and updates to protect you from ever-evolving cyber threats.
3. Integrated patient communication
ABELDent Patient Communication System (PCS) is built directly into our latest offerings, streamlining your messages and emails to patients directly from your ABELDent software.
If you are interested in updating to ABELDent v15, please reach out to our team at your convenience. If you need to check your system requirements for updating to ABELDent v15, please see the buttons below:
We are available 24/7 to assist you with your practice management software needs.
Still using Windows 10? Plan your transition ahead of time
Choosing to update your operating system ahead of time can prevent potential downtime and also provides your team with the advantages of the new operating system. Your team can work with your technician to schedule a date and time for your operating system update and any hardware updates you require so that you minimize your downtime. If you want to get ahead of the deadline for the end of support for Windows 10, now is the time to start planning your transition to Windows 11. By doing so, you’ll safeguard your practice’s data while ensuring seamless compatibility with essential dental software, ultimately leading to a better experience for both your team and your patients.
