Overview
In Summer 2025, Windows workstations campuswide will be required to upgrade to Windows 11.
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What Should I Expect?
Beginning in the week of May 12, 2025, qualifying Windows 10 hosts across campus will receive a Software Center task sequence deployment which will allow them to upgrade to Windows 11 using an automated process. Initially, the update will be opt-in and user-initiated, giving you the opportunity to start the upgrade process at a time that's most convenient for you.
As October 14, 2025 (the end of life (EOL) date for Windows 10) nears, we will begin automatically updating hosts overnight.
What Do I Need To Do?
When you're ready to begin the upgrade process, take the following steps:
- Open Software Center on your Windows 10 device.
- Click on the Operating Systems tab in the left-hand navigation pane.
- Click Upgrade to Windows 11 23H2, then click Install
If you do not see Upgrade to Windows 11 23H2 as an option, your device may not qualify for Windows 11. Potential causes may include:
- System Processor is not compatible or does not meet security standard.
- System does not have a TPM 2.0 chip.
- Not enough disk space.
- Insufficient RAM (memory).
If you have questions about your device's compatibility, please contact the OIT Help Desk. For most efficient support, let us know your device name as well as your device model and/or it's serial number/service tag.
Why Is This Necessary?
Microsoft Windows 10 will reach its end-of-life on October 14, 2025. After that, Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates and patches.
Why Does My Lock Screen Look Different?
You may find that your Windows Welcome Screen (or Lock Screen) looks different during the upgrade. An example is below. This lock screen background image serves as a notice to users to let them know the upgrade is running.
This image is displayed if the upgrade starts or resumes while nobody is logged in or if the install required a reboot before it could begin and the user does not log back in before the installation starts. It's only there to let the user know that the host may reboot at some point during the upgrade process.
Can I Opt Out?
UAH is offering extended updates for Windows 10 on a case-by-case basis, but they are not free. If you have a device that must remain on Windows 10, you must reach out to OIT to request approval for extended update support.
Such requests will only be honored in the case of legitimate business, research, or operational needs. OIT is unable to honor requests based on personal preference.
Can I Reschedule the Upgrade?
As of May 12, 2025, users can choose when to initiate the upgrade.
As we approach Windows 10 EOL, we will begin implementing automatic overnight upgrades.
Will This Affect Classroom PCs?
This upgrade process will not affect PCs in classrooms managed by ETLC as all classroom PCs managed by ETLC were upgraded to Windows 11 before May 2025.
Still Have Questions?
If you have additional questions about this topic, please contact the OIT Help Desk.