Windows 11 Upgrade Support

Support & Security: 

• Windows 10 will reach end of support on October 14, 2025.

• Windows 11 provides continued security updates, system stability, and support for modern hardware.

Performance & Productivity:

• Faster boot and resume times.

• Improved memory and power efficiency — ideal for laptops and shared PCs.

• Streamlined UI helps focus and multitask efficiently.

Compatibility:

• Most teaching, testing, and administrative apps have been tested and approved for Windows 11.

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Upgrade Strategy and High-Level Time Line

• Depending on hardware compatibility, different upgrade strategies will be applied:

For Windows 11 Compatible PCs

• An in-place upgrade will be performed:

• This process functions like a monthly patch — no files or applications will be removed.

• Upgrades are expected to be completed by October 2025.

• Some compatible models include:

  • Dell OptiPlex: 7060, 3060, 7070, 3070, 7080, 3080, 7090, 7000, 7010, 7020

  • Dell Latitude: 3310, 3390, 3500, 7390

For Windows 11 Incompatible PCs

• A manual upgrade will be required:

• Hardware will be replaced.

• User data will be transferred, and applications will be reinstalled.

• Upgrades are expected to be completed by October 2026.

• Some incompatible models include:

  • Dell OptiPlex: 7050 or older

  • Dell Latitude: Older than 3310

Notes:

• All PCs not upgraded by October 2025 will be covered by Microsoft Extended Security Updates (ESU) for one additional year.  

• Laptop replacements must be coordinated and funded by individual departments.

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What You Need to Do

Before the Upgrade

• Backup your files ahead of time to network drive or OneDrive.

• If you purchased applications, make sure it is compatible with Windows 11 and you have the installation media and production keys.

• Save all open files to network drive or OneDrive

• Leave your PC powered on and connected to the network overnight.

• Use a wired connection for a laptop (recommended).

The Upgrade Process

In-place upgrade (now – Oct. 2025)

1. Work similar as monthly patching, no data and application will be altered and no support technician visits unless to fix some issues.

2. Upgrade will be scheduled by groups of 100 PCs

3. The upgrade will be started after 5PM on each Monday, or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday.

4. The upgrade process could take hours depending on the PC performance.  If your PC has an older version of Windows 10, multiple upgrades might happen.

5. We will monitor the upgrade processes and will reinitiate the upgrade processes the next day after 5PM if necessary.

6.  After the package is installed, you will be prompted to reboot the PC in the first 24 hours. You might hear a beeping sound from your PC.  Please choose to reboot ASAP. The reboot may take 15–30 minutes to complete. After 24 hours, the PC will be forced to reboot.

6. Please check your PC for any issues and contact the Service Desk if necessary

Manual Upgrade (Oct. 2025 – Oct. 2026)

1. Support technician will visit offices and schedule the upgrade with the user.

2. PC or hard drives will be replaced; user data will be restored and applications will be reinstalled.

3. There will be a downtime for 2-4 hours depending on circumstances.  

Check on the upgrade method and schedule applied to your PC

• Watch our for center wide emails for upgrade notification

What to Expect

• Initial reboot time may be slightly longer.
• A fresh desktop experience with a centered Start Menu and task bar.
   

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Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: Feature Comparison

There are no significant differences for day-to-day work. Please see the support link below.

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Common Issues & Troubleshooting

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Need Help?

• Email: help@downstate.edu

• Call: 718-270-4357

• Walk-in: IT Helpdesk, BSB 1-29

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Downloadable Resources

• Windows 11 User Quick Start: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows

• Windows 11 FAQ Sheet: #