University of Reading upgrades to Windows 11

DTS will begin the process of deploying the Windows 11 operating system to computers within the University estate from the beginning of June 2024. 

Why upgrade?

Microsoft have announced that they will stop support for Windows 10 in October 2025. 

The current version of Windows 10 (22H2) is the final release and won’t get any new features, although it will continue to receive security patches up to the end of support date.

You will need to upgrade to Windows 11 for new features and exclusive apps, e.g. Microsoft Copilot integration, Widgets, Teams meeting settings from your taskbar (mute, share screen), new features in Notepad (tabs, autosave), new features in the Snipping tool, plus some lovely new backgrounds.

All our staff Windows computers will need to be Windows 11 by October 2025. As this is several thousand devices, we are doing this by a phased rollout.

How to upgrade to Windows 11

You do not need to be on the University network (or VPN) to run the upgrade, but you do need to be connected to the internet.

The upgrade is straightforward and can be done from the Company Portal (which most Windows Laptops from 2021 onwards have). Find the app “UoR – Windows 11 Upgrade Opt-in” and install. 

For full instructions see: Windows 11 upgrade from the Company Portal

Next time your device updates – usually when you next login – it will pick up the Windows 11 update. 

What’s new in Windows 11?

For more information from Microsoft on what’s new and what’s changed in Windows 11, please see Meet Windows 11 and  Windows 11 Tips and Tricks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Windows 11?

Anyone who has had a new laptop through the Device Lifecycle programme in 2024 will already be using Windows 11. To check the version you are on, type ‘winver’ into the search box next to the start menu, and click on the winver app in the results list.

Windows 11 as an optional self initiated upgrade is available via the Company Portal. 

If you do not have the Company Portal on your computer or you can’t see the option to upgrade, please raise a ticket with the IT Service Desk so we can help you.

Do I need to upgrade now?

At the moment this is optional, so you can decide on a time convenient for you. In 2025, we will be enforcing the upgrade to Windows 11 for any remaining computers so we can continue support you. 

Can I move back to Windows 10 , if it turns out Windows 11 isn’t compatible with something I use?

Once you have upgraded to Windows 11, you have 10 days to move back to Windows 10. Please contact the Service Desk if you want to do this, as we need to know about any software that isn’t yet compatible with Windows 11.

After that 10-day period, you will need to request a return to Windows 10 from the Service Desk.

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Further information and contact

As it has been out for a while, there’s a lot of information about Windows 11 on the internet. Here are some useful webpages:

Meet Windows 11: The basics – Microsoft Support

Windows 11 Tips and Tricks | Microsoft

If you have any questions or need any advice, please contact the IT Service Desk.