Windows 11 Migration Information

microsoft windows computer upgrade hardware training features WINDOWS11 win migrate

Overview

As part of an ongoing commitment to providing a secure and efficient technology environment, Campus Technology Services (CTS) is excited to announce a campus-wide transition to Windows 11. This upgrade will offer enhanced security features, improved performance and a more seamless user experience for everyone on campus. CTS understands that change can bring questions, and they are ready to support you every step of the way. Below, you’ll find important details about the transition timeline, support resources, and what you can expect as the campus moves forward.

Microsoft will be ending support for Windows 10 on Oct. 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will stop providing security updates to client devices, which puts those devices and the campus at risk. Campus Technology Services (CTS) has piloted migrating some campus computers to Windows 11 and is now ready to work with the campus to make a full migration.

Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 involves planning a seamless transition to ensure minimal disruption to faculty, staff, and students. The process includes determining hardware compatibility as only certain models are compatible, determining software compatibility, and providing training on the new features. Windows 11 enhances system performance, accessibility features, security features, and offers a refreshed user interface with minor changes.

The process for upgrading to Windows 11 includes the following:

Determining if Windows 11 is already installed on your computer
Determining hardware compatibility
Determining software compatibility
Submitting a Windows 11 Upgrade request ticket, if your hardware/software are compatible
Purchasing new equipment if your hardware/software are incompatible
Participating in training (optional)

Each of the items above is discussed in the sections below. If you have any questions along the way, please feel free to reach out to Campus Technology Services (CTS) so we can assist.

Determining if Windows 11 is already installed

To determine if Windows 11 is already installed on your computer, follow these steps:

In the Windows search bar at the bottom of your screen, type "System Information" and press "Enter."
In the window that opens, look for the item called "OS Name." If you are running Windows 11, the value for that field should say something similar to "Microsoft Windows 11 Education."

If your "OS Name" value does not include "Windows 11", then your computer will need to be upgraded.

Please make sure to review the next section regarding hardware compatibility as some computer models cannot be upgraded and will need to be replaced. Also review the "Determining Software Compatibility" section to determine compatibility with any specialized software.

Determining Hardware Compatibility

As we work to transition to Windows 11, it is important to note that this upgrade has specific hardware requirements. To meet security requirements, only specific models can be upgraded.

Not sure what your model number is?
Model numbers are generally listed on the computer case. If you are unable to find it or would like to verify it, you can follow these steps:

In the Windows search bar at the bottom of your screen, type "System Information" and press "Enter."
In the window that opens, look for the item called "System Model." The value for that item is the model of your computer.

Dell Optiplex and Latitude models compatible with Windows 11
The campus primarily uses the Dell Optiplex desktop and Dell Latitude laptop models. The following models have been tested and are compatible with Windows 11:

• Compatible OptiPlex desktop models: 5000, 5070, 5080, 5090, 7010¹, 7020¹, 7060, 7070, and 7090
• Compatible Latitude laptop models: 5400, 5420, 5430, 5440, 5450, 5490, 5500, 5590, 7200, 7400, 7490, and 7520

¹Note the Optiplex 7010 and 7020 models are compatible only if purchased within the last three years (2021-2024). Dell has models with the same number that originate back to the 2012-2015 time frame that are not compatible.

Models outside the Dell Optiplex and Latitude series
If your model is not part of the Optiplex or Latitude series or is not a Dell, you can verify if it is compatible by doing one of the following below:

Reviewing your manufacturer's list of compatible devices
- Dell has a full list of compatible models under the section called "Dell computers tested for update to Windows 11 build 22H2"
Contacting the CTS Help Desk for assistance

If your hardware is compatible with Windows 11, please also verify software compatibility in the next section. If both hardware and software are compatible, please submit a Windows 11 Upgrade ticket. CTS staff will then schedule an appointment with you. Please have your data backed up prior to the appointment and allow 2-4 hours for the install to take place. Note the install is a re-image of the device and could take longer depending on the age of equipment and data needing to be restored.

Determining Software Compatibility

The latest versions of many commonly used campus applications are compatible with Windows 11. These include applications like Chrome, FireFox, Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, SPSS, Minitab, etc.

If you have older versions of these applications, they will be updated during the Windows 11 upgrade.

If you have specialized software, please confirm that the vendor supports Windows 11. Some may support Windows 11, but require a paid upgrade to the latest version. Some may not support Windows 11 and in these cases, please work with CTS on potential solutions.

If you have specialized software needed to run specialized hardware or peripheral equipment such as scientific instruments, label makers, bar code scanners, etc. please ensure the software and the hardware will both operate under Windows 11.

If your software is compatible with Windows 11, please also make sure you have verified hardware compatibility in the section above. If both hardware and software are compatible, please submit a Windows 11 Upgrade ticket. CTS staff will then schedule an appointment with you. Please have your data backed up prior to the appointment and allow 2-4 hours for the install to take place. Note the install is a re-image of the device and could take longer depending on the age of equipment and data needing to be restored.

Incompatible Hardware

If you have determined your hardware is incompatible, the computer will need to be replaced.

CTS will work with academic departments in CLAS, SCMA, SOB, and SOE during the VAP/Lecturer and Faculty Computer Replacement calls to help replace equipment as needed. We encourage any hardware that was purchased prior to 9/1/2020 be replaced. You may contact inventory@oswego.edu for purchase dates.
Departments not listed above should plan for any needed hardware replacements. You can use the campus standard hardware quotes for budgeting and requisition purposes. Early planning will help ensure a smooth transition and help reduce disruptions. At the latest, machines should be purchased by Aug. 1, 2025 to allow for ordering, shipping, configuration, and installation. You can also check to see if CTS has used inventory that could be used for replacements.

Migration Timeline

For Employees
If your hardware and software are compatible with Windows 11 (see sections above), please submit a Windows 11 Upgrade ticket. CTS staff will then schedule an appointment with you. Please have your data backed up prior to the appointment and allow minimally two hours for the upgrade to take place. Note the install is a re-image of the device and could take longer depending on the age of equipment and data needing to be restored.

If you need to purchase new computers for compatibility, please have purchases made no later than Aug. 1, 2025 in order to be installed prior to Oct. 14, 2025. You can review the campus standard hardware quotes for budgeting and requisition purposes.

All new computers have Windows 11 installed as of summer 2024.

For Classroom and Lab Computers
CTS has installed Windows 11 in the majority of classroom and lab computers. Technicians responsible for maintaining departmental computer labs with specialized equipment should consult CTS prior to upgrading.

Windows 11 Features

The following are some of the new features you can expect in Windows 11. A 2-minute video is also available for a quick glimpse at some of the features.

New and improved accessibility features including:
- built-in screen reader
- color control
- color filters
- live captioning of audio
- computer control through voice and/or eye control
New user interface that moves the windows start button and task bar to the bottom center of the screen.
Snap Layouts that organize the windows on your screen with multiple layout selections.
Video creation and editing including the new Microsoft ClipChamp for recording videos.
New tab support in File Explorer.
Updated apps including NotePad and Paint.
Gentler sounds used with booting and notifications.
General speed improvements.
Enhanced security by requiring the hardware level Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip and Secure Boot capability.

Training

CTS will be offering some workshops during the CELT-sponsored Spring BreakOut sessions in May. Please check the CELT website for dates/times when it gets closer.

Self-training options include the following:

Windows 11 Quick Introduction (3 min, YouTube)
Windows 11 Quick Tips (36 min, LinkedIn Learning)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we need to migrate to Windows 11?
Microsoft will be ending support for Windows 10 on Oct. 14, 2025. They will not supply security updates after this date putting client machines and the overall campus at risk.

How do I know if I already have Windows 11 installed on my computer?
Please refer to the section above called "Determining if Windows 11 is already installed" for a quick way to see what operating system your computer is running.

What are the differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Like many updates to applications, Windows 11 comes with new and improved features. Please see the "Windows 11 Features" section above for specifics.

How do I tell if my computer will be able to run Windows 11?
Please review the "Determining Hardware Compatibility" section above.

My computer IS NOT compatible with Windows 11. What do I do?
Please review the "Incompatible Hardware" section above. If you will be purchasing a new computer, please make sure to have the purchase made by Aug. 1, 2025.

My computer IS compatible with Windows 11. What do I do next?
Submit a Windows 11 upgrade request ticket and CTS staff will make an appointment with you to schedule the upgrade. Please have your data backed up prior to the appointment and allow 2-4 hours for the upgrade to take place. Note the install is a re-image of the device and could take longer depending on the age of equipment and data needing to be restored.

I'm not sure if my computer is compatible. Can you help?
Absolutely. Please call or email the CTS Help Desk with the SUNY Tag number of your computer (the number on a white barcode sticker that starts with 230) and we will help determine if your computer is compatible.

When should I have any new computers ordered?
Please make any purchases as soon as your budget allows, but no later than Aug. 1, 2025.

Additional Information

If you need additional information, please contact CTS.

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