Upgrade to Windows 11 | StaffNet | The University of Aberdeen

Upgrade to Windows 11

Microsoft support for Windows 10 ends on 14 October 2025. This means that all Windows PCs and laptops* must be upgraded to Windows 11 before this date. Digital and Information Services will be upgrading managed University devices to the new Windows 11 operating system over the next few months. This includes classroom, staff and where possible, lab devices. *Unless on the agreed list of exemptions (see FAQs)

No need to wait – opt in now.

You can upgrade to Windows 11 now by raising a ticket with the IT Service Desk via the MyIT portal or wait until the upgrade is enforced.

What’s new?

Some of the biggest changes include:

A brand-new look: Including a centred taskbar and start button
Snap Layouts: Arrange your desktop just the way you like with a selection of windows layouts that can be easily populated with your favourite app windows.
New Settings App: A persistent left menu helps speed up navigation through the different settings groups.
Improved Accessibility Features: Designed to support vision, hearing, mobility, neurodiversity and learning

We recommend you set some time aside to explore the new design and interface. It shouldn’t take you long to get used to it, but Microsoft have a comprehensive set of guides to help you navigate the new system.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I have to upgrade?

Windows 10 reaches end-of-life in October 2025. This means that Microsoft will no longer update or support Windows 10. The University must transition to the new operating system before this date to ensure the digital network remains secure.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for the upgrade?

The upgrade requires 20Gb free disk space. To check you have enough space open File Explorer/My Computer. Then right click on C: drive and select properties.

If you don’t have enough space, you will need to declutter your desktop files. Save important files on the University central shared file space (either H: drive, R: drive; or OneDrive) and delete any files that are no longer needed.

What if I do not have enough disk space?

Unfortunately, this will prevent you from upgrading to Windows 11. If you are struggling to free up space, please raise a ticket with the IT Service Desk via MyIT

How long will it take?

This upgrade is quite substantial, but we’ve simplified the process so that the download and initial installation process will automatically happen in the background whilst you continue to work.

The final stage of installation requires a restart – this part of the process can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on your hardware) but you can schedule this to happen at a time that suits you.

How can I upgrade now?

You can upgrade to Windows 11 now by completing this form on the MyIT portal.

The upgrade will be installed automatically on staff devices starting from Tuesday 27 May 2025

The process is simple:

Windows 11 will download and install in the background. You do not need to do anything at this stage.
Once downloaded, Windows Updates will automatically begin the initial upgrade installation. From lab testing we have found this stage can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on hardware).
After this stage is complete, you will receive a Windows Update notification like the one below. You can defer the restart for up to 7 days.

A Microsoft Windows notification message advising that the device needs to be restarted to complete installation of updates

An image of the Windows taskbar showing an orange notification dot

Once the deadline has passed, you will no longer be able to defer the reboot. The computer will take control and reboot automatically.

We strongly suggest you restart before the 7-day deadline is reached.

An image showing the words 'Your device is missing important updates. Your organisation scheduled a restart. Select this icon for more info.

After the reboot your computer will be unavailable for a short period while it completes the installation to Windows 11 (version 24H2). The reboot stage can take approximately between 30 minutes to 1 hour.

What accessibility features does Windows 11 have?

Windows 11 has a number of built-in accessibility features to help you interact with your PC in a way that best suits your needs. Features include:

Vision: A screen reader called Narrator, colour control, colour filters, and the ability to tailor the display and vision settings.

Hearing: Live captions, customisable captions and an option to switch to single-channel audio.

Mobility: Voice Access, eye control and voice typing.

Neurodiversity & learning features: Tools to enhance focus, attention and reading comprehension.

Find out more here.

What if my device cannot be upgraded to Windows 11?

A compatible device will need to be sourced. This purchase may need to be made by you, your Directorate, or your School. DDIS are actively reviewing reports of devices that are not supported for Windows 11 and will be in touch.

What if my device is due to be replaced before 14 October 2025?

You will be contacted by members of the IMaT team (Installations, Moves and Technology Replacement Programme) to arrange replacement. We recommend upgrading your existing device now so that you have time to get used to Windows 11 before the upgrade is enforced.

What if I don’t want to upgrade to Windows 11?

To maintain the security of the University’s digital network this is a mandatory requirement for all standard UoA Windows-based devices. You can make the move now or wait until the upgrade is automatically pushed to your device. Automatic upgrades will begin on Tuesday 27 May 2025.

An exception list is held for devices that require an older operating system due to software requirements. These will be ring-fenced from the main University network.

What will happen to files stored on my desktop, browser favourites, and add-ons?

It is always recommended to save files on the University provided central file shares e.g. H: drive, R: drive; or OneDrive. We therefore recommend transferring important documents to central storage prior to the upgrade; however, locally stored files and browser favourites will not be affected by the upgrade. Items stored on your OneDrive for Business, H drive, and network shares will also be untouched.

Internet favourites/bookmarks, and add-ons are specific to the browser of your choice. These will not be affected by the upgrade.

Software compatibility

If you rely on non-standard software for your teaching or research, please check with the supplier that it is compatible with Windows 11. If you spot an issue or have any concerns please raise a ticket with the IT Service Desk via MyIT

How do I move the Start button?

You can change its position using the information here

Where are all the options when I right-click something?

Windows 11 has tidied up the Right-Click menu by listing the ‘common’ options. At the bottom of the menu you will see Show more options, this will display the full list of Right-click entries.