How do you migrate to Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019?

1 Assess your environment

Before you start the migration, you need to assess your current environment and identify the devices, applications, and data that need to be migrated. You can use tools such as the Microsoft Assessment and Planning Toolkit (MAP) or the Windows Analytics Upgrade Readiness service to collect and analyze information about your hardware, software, and drivers compatibility, as well as your network bandwidth and storage requirements. You should also review your licensing and support options, and create a backup and recovery plan in case of any issues.

2 Choose your deployment method

Depending on your environment size, complexity, and needs, you can choose from different deployment methods to migrate to Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019. The most popular methods are in-place upgrade, wipe and load, and provisioning. An in-place upgrade preserves existing settings, applications, and data while replacing the old operating system with the new one. Tools such as the Windows 10 Setup or the Windows Server Installation Wizard can be used for this method. Wipe and load involves erasing the existing operating system and installing the new one from scratch; tools such as the Windows Deployment Services (WDS) or the Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT) can be used for this method. Provisioning applies a configuration package to an existing Windows 10 device to customize its settings, applications, and policies; tools such as the Windows Configuration Designer or the Intune portal can be used for this method. Each of these methods is suitable for specific devices based on their requirements.

3 Test and validate your migration

Before you roll out the migration to your entire environment, you should test and validate your migration on a small subset of devices. You should verify that the new operating system works as expected, that your applications and data are intact, and that your security and compliance policies are enforced. You should also monitor the performance and feedback of your users, and resolve any issues or errors that may arise. You can use tools such as the Windows Analytics Device Health service or the Microsoft Endpoint Manager portal to track and manage your migration status and health.

4 Manage and update your devices

After you complete the migration, you need to manage and update your devices to keep them secure and optimized. You can use tools such as the Windows Update for Business service or the Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) to configure and apply the latest updates and patches to your devices. You can also use tools such as the Group Policy or the Microsoft Endpoint Manager portal to configure and enforce your device settings, policies, and profiles. You should also review and update your backup and recovery plan, and perform regular backups and restores of your devices.

5 Learn and leverage the new features

One of the benefits of migrating to Windows 10 or Windows Server 2019 is that you can take advantage of the new features and capabilities that they offer. For example, you can use features such as the Windows Hello for Business, the Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection, or the Windows Server Containers to enhance your security, productivity, and scalability. You can also use features such as the Cortana, the Windows Ink, or the Storage Spaces Direct to improve your user experience, creativity, and efficiency. You should learn and leverage the new features that are relevant and useful for your environment and users.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?