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Information Technology Services

Windows 11 Migration

Microsoft will end support of Windows 10 effective October 2025. As a result, all workstations with this operating system will no longer meet University security standards and require action. Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures continued security, compatibility, and access to modern features with minimal impact to user experience. Some older workstations that lack the necessary hardware or support for Windows 11 may need to be recycled or replaced.

To learn about what you can do to prepare for the change and more information, review our Frequently Asked Questions below.

What do I need to do? Can I opt-in early to upgrade?

If your University-imaged computer meets the system requirements for Windows 11, follow these steps to start the upgrade at your convenience: 

  1. Save your work and close all windows and browsers.
  2. Click the Windows icon in your task tray to open the Start Menu
  3. Type to search for and open the Software Center
  4. Go to the Operating Systems tab
  5. Select Upgrade to Windows 11 x64 and select Install

Please note:  If you are upgrading a university-owned device while working off campus, make sure you are connected to GlobalProtect VPN. This allows your device to communicate properly with Loyola's network during the upgrade.

Once installation is complete, your device will reboot to finalize the process. For minimal disruption, we recommend starting the upgrade at the end of your workday after saving your work.

Can I upgrade while off campus?

Upgrading to Windows 11 while off campus.

Yes, it is possible to upgrade to Windows 11 while off campus.

  • Connect to Global Protect (VPN) before attempting the Windows 11 upgrade
  • If the installs fails immediately when you click Upgrade, wait 1-2 minutes then click Retry.

Please Note: Network speed can significantly affect the time required to complete the upgrade.  We do not recommend attempting the upgrade over slow internet connections or weak Wi-Fi signals.  If you encounter issues while trying to upgrade remotely, we suggest retrying the process on campus while connected to the wired network.

Windows Activation

Windows Activation Prompt

In some cases, you may be prompted to activate Windows after your upgrade to Windows 11. If this happens, please contact the ITS Service Desk.

What operating system do I have?

Use the following steps to determine what version of Windows you have

To check your version of Windows:

  • Press the Windows key on your keyboard (or click the Start button).
  • Type "winver" (without quotes), then press Enter.
  • A window will appear showing your version of Windows and the version number (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11, etc.).

When will Classroom and Lab PC workstations be updated?

All PC classroom and computer lab workstations will be updated to Windows 11 during Summer 2025 as part of the annual reimage project, preparing workstations in advance for the next academic year.

What if my computer does not meet the requirements for Windows 11?

If your computer does not meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11, it will need to be refreshed or replaced.  This includes the most Lenovo model M93p, M92p, M91p, and M58 workstations.

Workstations that can't be updated to Windows 11 will be automatically enrolled in Microsoft's Extended Security Update (ESU) program to ensure that they continue to receive critical security updates while the necessary hardware refresh is completed.

Visit the PC Refresh Program to learn more. You may also review the Technology Purchases resources.

Can I opt out of the mandatory upgrade and remain on Windows 10?

All University-owned computers capable of running Windows 11 will be required to upgrade with limited exceptions.

If you do not upgrade to Windows 11 in advance, Information Technology Services will begin mandatory upgrades for all eligible devices beginning in early October. You will receive a notification on your device and have a 24-hour window to restart your device. 

If there is a valid business need to remain on Windows 10, such as reliance on proprietary software incompatible with Windows 11, such  requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and should be notified in advance of the mandatory upgrade deadline. While some computers may be approved for exclusion from the mandatory upgrade, they will still need to be upgraded, replaced, or put into network isolation by October 2025 due to security considerations.

If you have further questions, please submit a Service Request Form or contact us at ITSservicedesk@luc.edu.

Microsoft will end support of Windows 10 effective October 2025. As a result, all workstations with this operating system will no longer meet University security standards and require action. Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures continued security, compatibility, and access to modern features with minimal impact to user experience. Some older workstations that lack the necessary hardware or support for Windows 11 may need to be recycled or replaced.

To learn about what you can do to prepare for the change and more information, review our Frequently Asked Questions below.

If you have further questions, please submit a Service Request Form or contact us at ITSservicedesk@luc.edu.