Windows 11 Upgrade
Beginning in late September, UAB IT is undertaking a project to automatically upgrade UAB Windows systems to Windows 11, which will affect those computers which are currently using Windows 10.
The upgrades are happening because Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 beginning Oct. 14, 2025, and all Windows systems must be upgraded by then.
Automated upgrades will occur every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., from Sept. 27, 2024, to May 26, 2025, and there are steps you should take to prepare for the process. Keep in mind that if you can't adhere to these steps every weekend, your computer will be upgraded at another opportunity, or you can follow the steps below to upgrade on your own.
How to prepare your computer for the upgrade:
- Leave your campus computer on overnight during the update times.
- Ensure your laptop has access to the internet, whether on-campus or off-campus.
- Connect your off-campus desktop computer to the UAB VPN.
How to upgrade your computer to Windows 11 on your own:
- The upgrade will be available beginning Sept. 30 in Software Center.
- Reboot your computer before you upgrade.
- Follow the instructions in this article in the IT Service Portal.
What to know about software and systems:
- Some systems do not meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11, but UAB IT is working with school and unit Information Security Liaisons to identify and address systems that cannot be upgraded to Windows 11.
- Systems must have at least 64GB available disk space to upgrade to Windows 11.
- UAB IT has verified that UAB IT-provided software will work with Windows 11.
- If you are using any software or applications that are not provided by UAB IT, verify with your software vendor that you have a version that will work with Windows 11.
What to expect after your system has been updated to Windows 11:
- Your login screen will look different, and the Windows icon will appear in the middle of the desktop taskbar.
- Your system should be configured just as it was before the upgrade, and you should have access to the same resources.
Where to get help and information
- Contact AskIT at (205) 996-5555 or through our IT Service Portal at uab.edu/techhelp.
- Learn more about Windows 11 on the Microsoft web site.
- Learn more about Copilot for Windows 11 on the Microsoft web site, a built-in tool that allows you to use Copilot with Data Protection.