This article contains the frequently asked questions for the Windows 10 to Windows 11 upgrade process. Please see Windows 10 to Windows 11 Upgrade Process for more information on how to begin the upgrade.
Detailed Information
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why do I need to upgrade to Windows 11, and is it optional?
Microsoft announced that the current version of Windows 10, 22H2, would be the last version of Windows 10 (aside from security updates). Windows 10 is going to become end-of-life starting on October 14th, 2025. In order to get ahead of this deadline, we are imaging all new devices with Windows 11, and providing an upgrade process that will be available to all. The upgrade process will be deployed as 'required' at a later time closer to the end-of-life date.
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My computer has failed the upgrade process. What do I do?
Please submit a ticket for your campus T2 group to evaluate your device.
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What is the difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Microsoft has changed the user interface for Windows 11. Please see our Windows 10/Windows 11 Side by Side comparison.
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What if I have software that is not compatible with Windows 11?
Please submit a ticket for your campus T2 group to evaluate the software and possibly test it on a Windows 11 device. Since Windows 11 has been out for a couple of years now, most software is compatible with it. Again, at this time the upgrade is optional, so it is not mandatory that you upgrade.
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What happens if I begin the upgrade but want to cancel it?
Once you click Download & Install, it will install the upgrade to your computer.
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I don't see the upgrade listed in the Windows Update menu. What should I do?
Please submit a ticket for your campus T2 group as your device may not be compatible with Windows 11 or it may have incompatible software preventing the upgrade from showing up.
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Can this upgrade be completed from home or off University network?
Yes, this upgrade can be completed from anywhere with a stable Internet connection. Please note: the upgrade times may vary depending on the Internet speed.
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How long does the upgrade take?
The upgrade typically takes about one to two hours from start to finish, depending on Internet speeds. However, your device remains in a usable state for most of the process. Once your device is ready to restart and perform the final steps of the upgrade process, it will give you an estimated time (typically 30 minutes but it usually takes less time than that). If you are unable to restart at the time it is ready to restart, don't worry as there is a generous grace period before the device needs to force a restart.
Environment
- Windows 11 Upgrade Process