Introducing Windows 11

The deadline for upgrading Marquette-owned Windows computers to Windows 11 is Friday, February 14, 2025.

Windows 11 is Microsoft's latest operating system for desktops and laptops. In late spring 2024, IT Services will start switching university-owned devices from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Windows 10 will reach the end of support (EOS) on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will not release any feature or security updates for Windows 10. Over the next year and a half, IT Services will upgrade university-owned computers to Windows 11 to maintain a secure and up-to-date IT environment.

Though the Windows 11 user interface looks different, most features will function similarly. The initial login screen looks similar, and the file system is mostly unchanged. Microsoft has confirmed 99%+ application compatibility. For more information, check out Microsoft's Meet Windows 11 and Windows 11 Overview pages.

What to Expect and Timeline

If you receive a new or re-imaged university-owned computer starting in late spring 2024, it will have Windows 11.

Compatibility testing of all IT Services-supported software has been successfully completed. A list of tested software can be found here. Any software not found on this list is the department's or individual's responsibility.

Replacement Upgrade: Over the next year and a half, IT Services will replace CRP computers that do not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

IT Services will identify non-CRP computers that do not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11 and provide a list to departments. Departments must determine whether to remove a computer or purchase a new one.

In-place Software Upgrade: IT Services will upgrade the remaining CRP and non-CRP computers that meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11 in two phases.

Windows 11 is available to computer users. To update your computer to Windows 11 at your convenience, follow the Microsoft Software Center—Windows 11 in-Place Upgrade steps.
The deadline to upgrade your computer at your convenience is Friday, February 14. After this date, any computer with Windows 10 will upgrade to Windows 11 using the exact mechanism currently used to install monthly updates.

What's New with Windows 11

A More Consistent Interface: Windows 11 features a sleek, modern design with rounded window corners, a compact Taskbar, and a touch-friendly interface. The new system sounds are also more pleasing.
Build-In Generative AI: The Copilot AI tool in Windows 11 combines the intelligence of ChatGPT with Bing web-scraping for up-to-the-minute data. It can change settings, organize windows using Snap Assist, and even generate images from text prompts in various styles.
Enhanced Screenshot Tool: The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 has been improved with options to record screen videos and copy or redact text from images. It allows you to select rectangular or freehand areas, program windows, or the whole desktop.
Better Security: Windows 11 includes advanced security features to protect your data and privacy. This includes hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware protection.
Performance Improvements: Windows 11 is designed to be faster and more efficient, with system performance and battery life improvements.

Questions?

If you have questions, please get in touch with the IT Services TechSquad.