Let Amazon WorkSpaces take the stress out of your Windows 11 migration
By Brandon How, Senior Product Manager for AWS End User Computing
Intro
With Windows 10 support ending in October 2025, IT leaders across industries are under pressure to upgrade endpoints or risk running an unsupported operating system. But for many organizations, some hardware they have today won’t meet Windows 11’s strict requirements-especially in distributed environments like warehouses, retail stores, healthcare clinics, or education labs. The traditional response has been a costly and resource-intensive device refresh. But there’s another option.
In this article, we’ll explore how organizations can repurpose aging hardware using lightweight operating systems like ChromeOS Flex or IGEL OS and securely deliver Windows 11 from the cloud using Amazon WorkSpaces. This approach not only extends the life of existing endpoints but supports sustainability goals, tightens security, and gives organizations the flexibility to migrate on their own terms.
The Hardware Wall: Windows 11 Compatibility Gaps
Windows 11 introduced stricter hardware requirements than previous Windows versions-such as TPM 2.0 and supported processor families-effectively disqualifying many Windows 10 devices from upgrade. For enterprises that have already optimized lifecycle spending or extended the use of durable hardware, this change presents a serious challenge. Replacing endpoints early breaks the refresh cycle and increases capital expenditure. Worse, skipping the upgrade leaves businesses vulnerable to security gaps once Windows 10 support expires.
Amazon WorkSpaces: Streaming Windows 11 to Any Device
Amazon WorkSpaces offers a flexible alternative. Instead of upgrading local hardware, organizations can stream fully managed Windows 11 desktops from the AWS cloud-accessible from virtually any device. By repurposing older machines with a lightweight OS like ChromeOS Flex or IGEL OS, organizations can turn unsupported endpoints into secure cloud clients. Amazon WorkSpaces is also a Chrome Enterprise Recommended solution, validated by Google for use with ChromeOS and ChromeOS Flex. IGEL OS users can access WorkSpaces via built-in Chromium browser support or custom client configuration. As a low-cost, highly secure alternative, Amazon WorkSpaces Thin Client offers an affordable, purpose-built device for organizations standardizing on the shift to cloud desktops.
Target Use Cases: Where Repurposing Delivers Maximum Value
Repurposing aging devices is ideal for retail stores using POS terminals, warehouses with ruggedized devices, back-office PCs in call centers, healthcare environments, education labs, and contractor or seasonal endpoints. Installing ChromeOS Flex or IGEL OS on these devices enables secure, managed access to Windows 11 via the cloud without replacing hardware.
Flexibility with BYOL Licensing
Amazon WorkSpaces supports Bring Your Own License (BYOL) for Microsoft 365 and Windows Enterprise, allowing organizations to apply existing licensing and avoid redundant costs. Organizations can also take advantage of license-included bundles that Amazon WorkSpaces for end users who need a Windows desktop experience, but don’t need a Windows client license.
A Sustainable IT Strategy
Repurposing existing devices also supports environmental sustainability goals by reducing e-waste and extending hardware lifespans. Cloud desktops minimize energy consumption at the edge and centralize control, aligning IT modernization with corporate ESG initiatives.
The Outcome: Security, Control, and Cost Savings
By streaming Windows 11 to repurposed devices with Amazon WorkSpaces, organizations avoid hardware lock-in, maintain a secure environment, and simplify IT management. This approach provides flexibility, sustainability, and economic efficiency.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brandon How is a Senior Product Manager for AWS End User Computing. He leads product initiatives to craft simple yet powerful end user computing solutions, helping customers to take advantage of the AWS Cloud’s scalability and security.
