Upgrading to Windows 11

Here you can learn how to update your device from Windows 10 to Windows 11!

Getting Started

• Before you update, make sure the device you want to install Windows 11 on meets minimum system requirements. If your device is currently running Windows 10, we recommend you verify the minimum system requirements using the PC Health Check app. We do not recommend installing Windows 11 on a PC that doesn't meet requirements. Internal deployment of Windows 11 is currently underway as a phased deployment.

• In May 2023, ITS will be pushing updates to the new system. Pay attention to email messages reminding you of the mandatory installation date. 

• If you want to upgrade sooner, you can install Windows 11 using one of the methods described below. For most devices, the initial download and installation will take about 90 minutes; this occurs in the background, and you can continue to work during this period. You’ll be prompted to manually restart your device and the installation will complete for most in about 20 minutes or less! 

• If you don’t upgrade early, your PC will download Windows 11 installation files silently in the background without disrupting your work.  

• Once the first update notification appears, most people will have seven days to schedule your update. After a week has passed, you will receive a final notice that your device will automatically restart in 15 minutes. 

• Most Windows 10 devices will require your device to restart only once. In some cases, depending on when you last used Windows Update to update your device, you may be prompted for additional updates before or after the installation, which can include firmware updates from your device manufacturer or Windows servicing fixes.​​​ These types of updates may require additional restarts. 

Upgrading using Windows Update

1. Connect to a power source and the internet. You can use a wired or wireless internet connection. 

2. In the Windows Search field, start typing Update, and select Check for updates to open Windows Update. If your device is ready for Windows 11, you’ll see a section titled  Feature Upgrade to Windows 11. ​​​​​​​ 

Most devices are ready for Windows 11 now, but in some instances, the latest release may not be immediately visible in Windows Update. If you don’t see the Feature Upgrade to Windows 11 section, your device may not be ready to update yet. Select Check for updates to make sure any pending updates (i.e., drivers, Security Updates, Quality updates, etc.) are not blocking your device. If you’ve done this and still don’t see the Feature Update: 

a. Your device may have a temporary compatibility safeguard hold. This occurs when a compatibility issue with an app, device component, or driver is detected on your device. You’ll be able to move to Windows 11 as soon as the compatibility issue is resolved. In the meantime, a compatibility hold helps ensure you have the best possible update experience. 

b. You may be running a version older than Windows 10, version 2004 and need to update to a newer version first. 

c. Your device may be running a pre-release build through Windows Insider programs​​​​​​​. 

d. Your device might not meet minimum system requirements.

3. Select Download and install now to start the process. You can continue working on your device while the download and initial install process occurs.

4. Restart your device. For most Windows devices, upgrading to Windows 11 will only take about 20 minutes.

Upgrading using Deployment Tool for Windows 10 Enterprise 

1. Ensure a power cable is connected and the system has power. Do not attempt to perform the update while using battery power. 

2. Open the deployment tool desktop app on the device you want to upgrade. You can do this by selecting Start > All Apps > deployment tool. 

3. Scroll down until you find the tile for Windows 11 upgrade, then select it. 

4. Select the Install button at the top to begin the installation.