A Race Against Time for Emergency Services to Embrace Windows 11

The Emergency Services sector plays a vital role in safeguarding communities, providing rapid response to incidents, disasters, and health emergencies. This sector operates under high-pressure conditions, demanding robust infrastructure, trained personnel, and evolving technologies to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex world.

With digital transformation an ongoing priority across this sector, its response to a Windows 11 migration, as support for Windows 10 comes to an end in October 2025, is paramount. With mission-critical systems underpinning every part of emergency services operations from dispatch communications to data-driven incident response, the transition demands a seamless blend of stability, performance, and enhanced security capabilities.

Initial deployments of Windows 11 have spotlighted the operating system’s improved endpoint protection and streamlined usability, helping frontline personnel operate more efficiently under pressure. As departments assess compatibility with legacy systems and navigate training needs, their feedback serves as a valuable barometer for other public sector organisations considering the transition.

We recently interviewed over 200 decision-makers who were undertaking a migration to Windows 11. Within this cohort, Emergency Services organisations reported that 67% of their devices have been, or will need to be, replaced or upgraded to be compatible with Windows 11.

The size and complexity of the task is significant, with 65% planning to stagger their Windows 11 migration and 40% intending to do so remotely. Additionally, 68% will rely on device manufacturer support, while 58% will use their internal IT teams.

With the clock ticking, it’s a race against time for Emergency Services organisations to act. The alternative of relying on an ageing, vulnerable system, isn’t palatable. 

Therefore, prioritising migration timelines, auditing hardware and application compatibility, and mapping out a phased rollout – particularly for edge-based mobile teams – will ensure teams benefit from Windows 11’s performance and security without disrupting productivity. A phased transition will also help to safeguard business continuity while curbing operational costs and strengthening long-term resilience. 

As Emergency Services organisations prepare to transition to Windows 11, Panasonic TOUGHBOOK stands ready to support their journey. Our rugged, modular devices are built to thrive in demanding environments, ensuring frontline teams stay connected and productive throughout the upgrade process. 

With seamless in-vehicle integration and compatibility with essential applications, our devices empower mobile teams to adopt Windows 11 securely and efficiently.

To find out more about migrating to Windows 11, download our research white paper: “The High Cost of Standing Still: The Business Case for Upgrading to Windows 11.”