Time to upgrade to Windows 11

Students in a classroom.

UBIT is upgrading campus computers to Windows 11. Make sure to update your personal device from Windows 10 by 2025. Photographer: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki

Portrait photo of Michael Canfield

By Michael Canfield
 IT Communication Specialist

Published October 16, 2024

UBIT has started upgrading computers on campus to Windows 11. If you’re running Windows 10, you’ll need to update your personal device by 2025. 

What’s being updated at UB?

UB-managed Windows devices for faculty and staff, as well as public student computers in computing sites across campus, are in the process of updating to Windows 11. The process is expected to be mostly automated. 

With 3,000 devices being migrated by UBIT Customer Service alone, the majority of upgrades will happen seamlessly. Faculty and staff should expect their departmental IT teams to handle the updates.

What you should do

After the upgrade, you may need to restart your devices or log in again to complete the process.

Windows 10 reaches end of life and support during 2025, so be sure to plan to upgrade soon. Windows 11 is available for download on personal devices for all UB students, faculty, and staff.  

What’s different?

Windows 11 offers a redesigned interface with a new centered Taskbar, improved touch controls, and integrated widgets that will help you keep up with schedules, weather, stocks, sports, and more. 

Windows 11 also enhances virtual desktops, gaming, multitasking, and security and reliability, with improved connection methods, advanced network security, encryption, firewall protection, and built-in VPN protocols. 

The Start Menu in Windows 11 features a new layout with pinned and recommended apps. More information on interface changes is available on Microsoft’s website.

Why now?

Keeping UB's technology current is essential to maintaining security and reliability. According to UB’s Minimum Security Standards for Desktops, Laptops, Mobile, and Other Endpoint Devices, outdated systems, such as Windows 10 nearing end of life, will no longer receive security updates and cannot remain on the UB network. 

Need help?

For answers to your Windows 11 questions, visit support.microsoft.com. If you have concerns about the Windows 11 migration on UB-managed devices, reach out to your departmental IT support. For help with any UB technology, contact the UBIT Help Center at buffalo.edu/ubit/help.   

UB Information Technology News keeps UB students, faculty, and staff informed about their IT services and showcases creative collaborations between UBIT and the campus community. Published by the Office of the Chief Information Officer at UB and distributed via email as The Monthly Download. Edited by Diana Tuorto, IT Communication and Engagement, dianatuo@buffalo.edu.