Upgrading to Microsoft Windows 11

This is a necessary process as Windows 10, the operating system we’re currently using, will not be supported from October 2025. 

Windows 11 looks very similar to Windows 10 and the core functionality remains the same, however there are some new features and improvements: 

• Read about changes in Windows 11 
• Read about the accessibility updates in Windows 11 
• Read about Microsoft Copilot 

The University’s Digital Inclusion, Skills & Creativity team (DISC) will be running online Staff Bitesize training sessions to help users understand the differences between Windows 10 and 11and get the most out of using Windows. See available dates and book your place via the LMS.

When will I get Windows 11? 

New laptops and desktop computers 

As soon as the existing stock of Windows 10 devices has been fully allocated, all new devices issued to staff will run Windows 11. If you are provided with a ‘configure to order device’ or one with non-standard configuration it is likely this will now run Windows 11.

Managed Windows devices currently running Windows 10

Staff devices will be automatically updated to Windows 11 in a phased process starting in July 2024, this will continue over the remainder of the year. 

However you can also update your device to Windows 11 yourself. We recommend this as it means you’ll be able to run the update at a time which is convenient to you. Read about how to upgrade to Windows 11 sooner. 

Classroom PCs will be updated to Windows 11 over the summer as part of IT Service’s annual programme of rebuild work.

How will my Windows device be updated to Windows 11?

The upgrade will be automatically installed on your device remotely. Once the first stage of the upgrade is complete, you’ll be prompted to restart your computer. This restart will take approximately 20 minutes and can be deferred for seven days. You will not lose any data or files as part of the upgrade process.

What about devices that can’t be upgraded to Windows 11?

We’re aware of a large number of computers that are not compatible with Windows 11. A list of incompatible devices has been shared with departments and we are exploring a number of options:

• Replace the device. IT Services has requested financial support to fund replacing some devices and a decision is expected in September/October 2024. However, if academic departments have capacity with department budgets to replace devices, or are awarded external funds to replace devices, then these options should be explored.
• Extend the life of the device. IT Services are currently exploring the option of purchasing extended support for Windows 10 for a limited period, with more information on the availability of this option expected from September 2024. Whilst this potentially provides a useful solution to dealing with a device that can't be upgraded, it is not a long term solution.
  
• Retire the device.  If it is a secondary device (e.g. everyone that uses the device also has a managed laptop) or is not widely used, then staff should consider retiring the device. The University’s recycling partner, Stone Computing, provides fully compliant eWaste services to the University. Devices can be disposed of using our existing recycling process.
  
• Replace the computer with a docking station. This allows staff to bring their University managed laptops to where the computer was situated and use a docking station. This option could be suitable for a shared area, or where the device was previously connected to an instrument/equipment.
  
• Keep the device but change the operating system to Managed Linux. Please contact IT Support  to request this.
  
  

If you’re using a desktop PC for the sole purpose of connecting to a campus-based PC from home, please contact IT Support with details of your IT requirements. Please note, replacement devices will not be offered if they are not needed, so please do initiate a discussion early.