Important: the Windows 11 upgrade is now being rolled out to UoR managed computers so this article has been updated

Mandatory upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 10 will go out of support on 14th October this year. After this, Windows 10 will no longer receive software updates or security patches, which could place University systems and data at risk. Unless you have an agreed (by DTS) Extended Support license for a specific device (see below), this upgrade to Windows 11 is mandatory for all University managed computers.

Windows 11 logo

Automatic upgrade – what happens?

As previously communicated, we are now rolling out automatic upgrades to any managed staff computer which is not yet on Windows 11. 

When your device receives the upgrade file package, it will be installed in the background. You will be prompted to restart the device to complete the install:

Example pop up

If you can’t “Restart now” when you see the pop up, you can choose to “Pick a time” to restart later, or “Restart tonight” (leave your device on and it will reboot after 6pm). 

Pop up image shown is from a Surface laptop; desktop/older device pop up will be similar.

You will also be given the option to “update and restart” or “update and shutdown” when you close down your laptop/desktop. 

It is not convenient now – can I delay?

You can delay the restart by closing the pop up window. If you dismiss the pop up you can reopen it by clicking on the orange Windows update icon in the taskbar.

The restart can only be deferred for a maximum of 7 days (Surface devices) or 10 days for desktops (or older laptops). At the end of this grace period, your device will restart automatically. Therefore we strongly recommend you take notice of the pop up window asking you to restart so you can do this at a time that suits you.

Note: Windows 11 will not be installed until you have restarted your computer. 

I want to choose when to install Windows 11

You can upgrade to Windows 11 at a time that suits you by following the instructions below. You do not need to wait for the upgrade to appear on your computer. 

How to upgrade to Windows 11

You don’t need to be connected to the University network or VPN, just ensure you’re connected to the internet. We have several Knowledge Items to lead you through the process:

*Note screenshots in the Software Center KI aren’t Windows 11 specific, but do show you the process.

You must have a Windows computer – Mac users need not do anything!

Can’t find the upgrade download or having problems upgrading?

If you are having any difficulties upgrading your University computer to Windows 11, please contact the DTS Service Desk via the IT Self Service Portal. Alternatively you can visit us in person on the First Floor of the Library at Whiteknights with your Windows 10 laptop and one of our technicians will help you.

If you have already been advised by DTS that your staff computer is not able to be upgraded, please raise a ticket for a replacement laptop and the Device Lifecycle Team will assist.

Exceptions: Do you have specialist software or hardware  that only runs on Windows 10?

There are a few computers in the University which will be authorised to remain on Windows 10 on a temporary basis (for up to three years), because the software or hardware they run is not currently compatible with Windows 11.  We are able to purchase Extended Support Updates Agreements from Microsoft with an approved business case for remaining on Windows 10.

Although our original deadline has passed, you can still submit the Windows 11 Upgrade – Exception Request form found in the Self Service Portal.

Already submitted requests which have been approved are on the exemption list and will not receive the upgrade.

What about PC Lab devices?

All central PC Labs are ready and compatible for  Windows 11 and have been migrated over the summer. Some School owned PC Labs are not compatible with Windows 11 and action will need to be taken, and many Schools have already received exceptions or have upgraded to Windows 11.

If you have a School Owned PC Lab, please speak with your DTS Business Relationship Manager at the earliest opportunity if you haven’t already.

Do I have to upgrade to Windows 11?

You will not be able to put this off indefinitely. This is a mandatory upgrade. 

Whilst your computer will still continue to function after Windows 10 goes End of Life on 14 October, your device will be in breach of our cyber security policies and will be considered a risk to the University systems and data. DTS are obliged to carry on making the request to you that your device is updated to Windows 11. Eventually your device will be refused connection to the University network, as the risk of a cyber-attack increases the longer an Operating System is out of support. 

Further information and contact

Here are some useful Microsoft webpages about Windows 11:

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.

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