Overview
As previously announced, Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025. Pitt Information Technology is beginning the University-wide transition to the Windows 11 operating system. Windows 11 provides improved security and accessibility features and will maintain a path for Microsoft support moving forward.
Note: Automatically with Windows 11, Copilot installs. This tool is designed to deliver AI-powered assistance in a convenient manner, enabling you to seamlessly engage with generative AI on Windows. Should you need to have this AI tool disabled due to your research work, please
contact the Help Desk and
request it to be routed to your Technical Support team.
Why upgrade to Windows 11?
After October 14th, 2025 Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10. In addition to discontinuing support, they will no longer provide software updates, technical assistance or security fixes for Windows 10.
Windows 11 provides improved security and accessibility features and will maintain a path for Microsoft support moving forward.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition
Pitt IT is committed to helping ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11. We recommend visiting the Microsoft Meet Windows 11 web page for helpful resources and information about Windows 11. Below is a brief summary of noteworthy enhancements:
If you have any questions about the upcoming Windows 11 upgrade, please submit a help request.
This article covers these upgrade options: (click the 
to view details)
Upgrade via Software Center
Upgrade Launched by Technical Support
During the next few months prior to October, your Technical Support Department may announce updates coming where the upgrade will be required.
Note: If you have a device that requires Windows 10 due to research or other requirements, please send a request the Help Desk and request it to be routed to your Technical Support team.
What to Expect
This upgrade differs from earlier Windows upgrades in that it requires compatible hardware specifications. If your Windows device is compatible, the upgrade will happen automatically.
- Once Windows 11 has been deployed, a pop-up notification like the one below will display indicating that a restart is required to complete the upgrade. You will have ten days to restart your devices and complete the upgrade.
- After restarting your device, the installation typically takes between 20 to 45 minutes to complete.
- If you choose to dismiss the initial restart prompt, you can access it again at any time by clicking the Notifications icon or the Windows Update icon in your System Tray.
- Devices that have not been restarted after the ten-day period will restart automatically.
Note: this 10-day auto-restart is built into the Windows 11 upgrade software.
- After the initial Windows 11 installation restart, your computer will then download and install any required security updates, and you will be prompted to restart your computer again to complete their installation.
- After completion, your Windows 11 login screen and desktop will look different than they did in Windows 10.
Troubleshooting: Software Center is Unavailable
If you don't have the Software Center available, you can download the update directly from Microsoft.
(Current release: Windows 11 2024 Update l Version 24H2)
Before installing, check the Windows release information status for known issues that may affect your device. If you’re running a prior version of Windows, see the Upgrade to Windows 11:FAQ for additional information.