This article will address frequently asked questions across the following categories:
About The Upgrade
Q: What is Windows 11?
A: Windows 11 is Microsoft’s latest operating system, formally released in October 2021. It is the successor to Windows 10.
Q: What can I expect from Windows 11 when I am upgraded?
A: The biggest change you will see in Windows 11 is the user interface. The Start Menu and Taskbar have been revamped and shortcuts/buttons may appear in slightly different places as well as new ones being added. Overall, the Windows functionality is still the same. Programs you have been using such as Outlook, Word, and Excel will not change when run on Windows 11.
Q: Do I need to be on campus to upgrade my device to Windows 11?
A: No. If you are off campus, then you have to have VPN access to complete this process.
Q: How long is the upgrade?
A: The installation will begin and may take around 1 hour.
Q: Is training on Windows 11 available?
A: Support and familiarisation information will be available to help you transition. Please click here to go to Windows 11 training module.
Backing Up Files and Data
Q: How can I get ready for the upgrade?
A: Once you've received the message from IT with your scheduled upgrade date, you'll want to ensure you have done two things:
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Ensure you have synced all of your files with OneDrive. Your files will then transfer by default to your Windows 11 device. If you are unsure on how to do this, then please click here.
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Log into your Chrome or Edge browser and save all of your bookmarks/favorites and settings to your account.
Q: What will happen to my files during the upgrade?
A: The default experience will be for files and data to move forward with the new installation. However, we always recommend that you back up files before installing a new Windows version. If you already sync your files to OneDrive, you may not need to take any additional action to create a backup.
For more info on getting started with OneDrive, see Upload and save files and folders to OneDrive.
Devices
Q: I am a Mac user, does this affect me?
A: In most cases, no, this move does not affect Mac users. However, if you are using a Windows 10 virtual machine on your Mac, you will eventually need to upgrade.
Q: When will classrooms be upgraded to Windows 11?
A: All computer labs and classrooms are slated to be upgraded by Summer 2025.
Q: What happens if I am told that my device can not be moved to Windows 11?
A: If you are told that your device can not move to Windows 11, then you will have to be issued another device. A member from our End Point team will be in touch with next steps.
Q: How will group work spaces change?
A: Group spaces will be included in the upgrade schedule and will transfer over to Windows 11. As a user please ensure that you have done two things before your upgrade date:
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Ensure you have synced all of your files with OneDrive. Your files will then transfer by default to your Windows 11 device. If you are unsure on how to do this, then please click here.
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Log into your Chrome or Edge browser and save all of your bookmarks/favorites and settings to your account.
Q: What if I have more than one device?
A: The review of device use will be apart of these changes. If there is a role or operation justification requirement to maintain multiple devices, they will be upgraded to Windows 11.
Q: Old and End of Life Devices?
A: Devices coming to their end of life will not be upgraded. These will be replaced with an alternative device. The old device should be handed back to the Support Center.
Software and Account Access
Q: Where are my applications?
A: The familiar Windows Start Button has been replaced with a new Windows icon in the lower left corner of the screen. Clicking this button will provide access to your All Apps menu as well as the logoff / lock and system restart/shutdown menu option.
Q: How do I lock, shut down or log out of my computer?
A: There are multiple ways to shut down or log out of your computer. Three popular methods are identified below:
- To shut down or restart your computer, click the start button in the lower left and click the icon that resembles a power button. A menu will appear which will allow the selection of ‘Shut Down’ and ‘Restart’
- To log off or lock your computer, click the start button in the lower left and click the top circled icon. A menu will appear which will allow the selection of ‘Lock’ or ‘Sign out’
- Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete will present a menu which also provides access to ‘Lock’, ‘Shut down’, Restart’ and ‘Sign out’
Q: Will I still be able to use Office 2019 with Windows 11?
A: For now yes, but Office 2019 eventually will not be supported by Windows 11. You will have to use Microsoft 365 when that time comes.
Q: What web browser is included with Windows 11?
A: The supported default browser is Microsoft Edge which offers robust security and privacy features compared to Google Chrome. It also provides improved integration with Microsoft Services. We recommend switching to MS Edge now for ease of transition ahead of the upgrade, but Google Chrome will still be available.