Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11

Windows 11 is Microsoft’s newest operating system. It brings a refreshed design, improved productivity tools, and continued security updates. Windows 10 will reach end of support in October 2025, so upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your computer continues receiving security and feature updates.

I. Check if Your Computer is Compatible

Not all computers running Windows 10 can run Windows 11. To check:

1. Download Microsoft’s PC Health Check tool:
   1. Microsoft's PC Health Check Download
2. Run the program and select Check now.
3. You’ll see a message confirming whether your device meets the requirements.

Tip: Most university-issued computers purchased in 2019 or later are compatible.

 

II. Check Software Compatibility

Most software that works on Windows 10 also works on Windows 11. If you’re unsure:

• Visit the software publisher’s website for system requirements.

• For common campus tools (Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom, etc.), Technology Services has verified compatibility.

• If you use specialized research or teaching software, check with your vendor or contact the Technology Service Desk before upgrading.

III. Upgrade to Windows 11

1. Click the Start Menu → Settings 

2. Select Update & Security → Windows Update

3. Click Check for updates

   1. If your device is compatible, you’ll see the option to install Windows 11.

4. Click Download and install and follow the on-screen instructions.

The process can take 30–60 minutes and will restart your computer.

 

IV. After the Upgrade

• Log in with your credentials.

• Check that your files, printers, and software are available.

• If you notice anything missing or not working, contact the Technology Service Desk.

 

V. For Personal Devices that Can't Update to Windows 11

If your personal computer is not eligible for Windows 11, Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025. After that date, Windows 10 will still function, but it will no longer receive free security updates from Microsoft.

Microsoft does offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for individuals that need to continue using Windows 10 beyond the end of support date but want security updates. This program is optional, requires enrollment, and comes with a subscription cost. More details are available directly from Microsoft: Learn about the ESU program.

 

I'm on a University Device and Don't See the Option to Update to Windows 11 in Step 3?

Some University-issued Windows devices were deployed with an edition that doesn’t support the standard Microsoft Update channel. These devices can’t be upgraded to Windows 11 through Settings → Windows Update. Technology Services provides a self-service upgrade through our management tool (KACE) that updates the licensed Windows edition and then upgrades the device to Windows 11.
Use this only if:
You don’t see the Update to Windows 11 option in Step 3 of our instructions above and are on a University owned device.

Steps

1. Log in to Kace, and go to Downloads 

2. Read the installation instructions, and double-check that Device to install software on is set to your computer.

   1. The 5 digits of the computer name should match the last 5 digits on the white University asset sticker.

3. Click Run Now to start the upgrade.

4. What to expect

• An orange status box will appear, click Finish to start the download to upgrade to your computer. This stage takes 30–60 minutes, and your computer may reboot during the process.
• When the download finishes, you’ll be prompted to restart to complete the upgrade. The final install takes 10–20 minutes.
• Please keep the device plugged in and connected to the network the entire time.
• You can continue to work during the download/staging phase, just save frequently.