Windows 11

Why: Microsoft will no longer release security updates for Windows 10 in 2025. Upgrading to Windows 11 will help keep our campus safe from cybersecurity threats, as well as your personal information and sensitive files.

When: Starting on June 1st, 2024, Windows 11 will appear in Software Center under the Operating Systems Tab to download and install without admin credentials.  For Lab and TEC classroom eligible computers they will start getting Windows 11 on June 1sst, 2024.  All newly deployed computers will start being imaged with Windows 11 on June 1st, 2024.

What is affected: The main difference will be the User Interface (UI), and how you navigate through your desktop. Overall, Windows 11 is very similar to 10.

We have tested various ASU systems such as Workday, Banner, VPN, etc. and have found no known issues. Some department specific software will need to be individually tested prior to upgrading.  

What you can do to prepare: 

1. Backup your files in Google Drive, and create a shared Google Drive for your department if you don't use one already.  Please do not copy files from a Shared Folder you are not the owner of.  Shared Network Drives (S: Drive in File Explorer) will still work on Windows 11, but it is recommended to store your files in a shared Google Drive instead. Here is an overview of Google Shared Drives.

2. Learn about Software Center through this webpage. You'll be able to learn how to install Windows 11 when it's available, but it's also useful for downloading and updating applications and installing desktop shortcuts. 

3.  Review the Meet Windows 11: The Basics (not all options and features are going to be enabled in the ASU environment)

4.  As a department head, please start budgeting for new replacement computers that are eligible for Windows 11.  Starting in June, CS will let departments know what computers in their department are not eligible for upgrade.