Why?
Microsoft will end Windows 10 operating system support in 2025.
Impact
In phases, all WPI ITS-managed computers will be upgraded to Windows 11 by December 18, 2024. Devices running instrumentation will not be eligible for self-service update.
Benefits
ITS has been piloting and testing Windows 11 for months. Upgrading campus computers to Windows 11 is necessary to ensure they operate smoothly and securely, are capable of receiving updates, and can run ITS-supported software and applications.
Action Needed
As of April 1, please Install Windows 11 [Related Article) to upgrade your WPI assigned/owned computer. This process usually takes 1 to 4 hours to complete. The computer cannot be used or turned off once the upgrade has started, so it is recommended start this at the end of your work shift to complete while the computer is unneeded. Additional requirements and feature differences are listed in the Install Windows 11 article. Do not update computers attached to instrumentation; contact ITS.
Details
Phase 1: Spring 2024
Beginning April 1, 2024 individuals are encouraged to upgrade their WPI assigned/owned computer to Windows 11 at their convenience using the instructions in Install Windows 11 (Related Articles). Please note: The upgrade usually takes between 1-4 hours to complete, during which time the computer cannot be used.
ITS provisions all new and re-imaged computers with Windows 11.
Contact ITS regarding computers attached to instrumentation. Do not update these computers.
Phase 2: Summer 2024
ITS upgrades public campus computers in labs, classrooms and conference rooms to Windows 11.
Phase 3: Fall 2024
All remaining WPI ITS-managed computers will be upgraded to Windows 11 by December 18, 2024 in advance of Microsoft's end of Windows 10 support.
- Automated Upgrades:
- Departments may request a date range for enrollment in the automated upgrade by replying to this message. We will work with you to schedule the change during a week that best suits your needs, beginning as soon as September 18. Upgrades can be distributed over several dates so that all department computers are not impacted at the same time.
- ITS will initiate automated upgrades for groups of computers each week from October 14 – December 9.
- Communication to the computer’s primary owner will be sent prior to enrollment.
- Individuals may upgrade now using instructions to Install Windows 11.
- If you have instruments or software that are not compatible with Windows 11, reply to this message and provide the following details: (a) hostname, and (b) name of the instrument and/or software. A technician will then get in touch with you to discuss further.
Consultation
Please contact ITS regarding computers connected to instrumentation.
If you need to consult about upgrading a computer to the Windows 11 operating system, or have questions or concerns, please contact the WPI IT Service Desk.