CIT has begun a project to upgrade eligible campus-owned Windows computers to Windows 11 by October 2025. Here are some essential details about the upgrade process: 

Background Installation: The upgrade will be downloaded to your device via Windows updates and will download/install automatically in the background. During this time, you will still be able to use your device. 

Restart Required: After the upgrade has downloaded and installed, your device will prompt you to restart. Please plan accordingly for this restart as it may take up to an hour for the install to complete. During this time, you will not be able to use your device. 

How to Prepare

To ensure a smooth transition, we kindly ask you to prepare for the upgrade by following these steps: 

• Backup Your Data: Before the upgrade, it's essential to back up all your important files and data. You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or CIT's recommended backup solution.

• Review Your Software: Make a list of the software applications you use regularly. Please check their compatibility with Windows 11, and if necessary, update them to the latest versions.

• Save Your Bookmarks and Favorites: If you use web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, ensure that your bookmarks and favorites are backed up or synced to your account to prevent any data loss.

• Note Custom Settings: If you have customized settings, themes, or preferences on your current Windows 10 setup, please make note of them so you can easily reconfigure them on Windows 11.

What To Do If Your Installation Fails

In some cases Windows 11 installation may fail on the 1st try, in which case your device will just be reverted to Windows 10 and will try to download and install again. You will be able to use your device during this re-download/install. If this happens let your device run through this process and then restart and it should be successful on the 2nd try.

Still Need Help?

Ask CIT! Call (585-245-5588), chat, or submit a request and we'll be happy to assist you.