Windows 11 upgrade project
Project
Overview
Wayne State University is updating all managed university computers to the new Windows 11 operating system beginning in July 2024. This includes all classroom, lab, and employee computers.
Microsoft released Windows 11 in 2021 and Windows 10 will reach its end-of-life in 2025. This means that Microsoft will no longer update or support Windows 10 and Wayne State must transition to the new operating system before this date to maintain secure and reliable hardware for students, faculty, and staff.
This change is being implemented with sufficient time to prepare users by limiting disruptions to learning and working, introducing new features, and providing support for an easy transition.
Progress
Use the report below to track project progress as all university computers are updated to Windows 11.
Timeline
This project will be implemented in eleven phases over one year and employees will be notified via email from cit@wayne.edu before their devices are updated. Dates are tentative and subject to change.
| Phase | Date | Included schools, colleges, and departments |
|---|---|---|
| Test | July 22-Aug. 21, 2024 | C&IT |
| Phase 1 | Sept. 10-27, 2024 |
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| Phase 2 | Oct. 2-18, 2024 |
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| Phase 3 | Nov. 4-18, 2024 |
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| Phase 4 | Jan. 20-Feb. 7, 2025 |
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| Phase 5 | Feb. 17-March 7, 2025 |
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| Phase 6 | April 22, 2025 |
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| Phase 7 | May 13, 2025 |
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| Phase 8 | July 22, 2025 |
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| Phase 9 | Aug. 5, 2025 |
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| Phase 10 | July 11-Sept. 9, 2025 | Special cases |
Windows 11
New features
| Feature name | Description |
|---|---|
| Copilot | An AI-powered assistant helps to find the relevant information and inspiration you need to power your own ideas. |
| Snap layouts | Choose from a selection of window layouts, easily populating them with app windows of your choice. These layouts are saved and accessible from the app taskbar icons, so you do not have to re-create them after doing something else. |
| Performance and security | Multiple layers of protection designed to help keep your apps, information, and identity secure. Enhanced security features include support for passkeys. |
| Focus sessions | The humble Clock app is updated allowing you to set boundaries for when you want undistracted time for getting stuff done. |
| Photos app | Capable of not only organizing and editing photos, but also for video editing with titles, transitions, effects, and more. Photos app includes face recognition, auto-generated albums, and integrated maps for photos with location data. New features include an edge-to-edge photo view, and an improved cropping interface, along with the Fluent Design updates. |
| Media Player app | Handles both music and video, and replaces the Groove app. |
| Teams | The new taskbar button gives easy access. |
| Tablet mode and docking | When you dock or plug your laptop into a monitor, it remembers the last app layout you were using. |
| New File Explorer | Improved File Explorer, making it more efficient and user-friendly. |
| Android app integration | Now available through the Microsoft Store, merging mobile and laptop devices. |
| Dynamic lighting | Enjoy dynamic lighting effects that enhance your visual experience. |
| 7-ZIP and compressed files | Built-in support. No need for third-party tools; Windows 11 now natively handles these popular compressed file formats. |
Appearance updates
- Taskbar icons are centered, smaller, and do not require you to move the mouse cursor across a full screen to launch an app from the Start Menu.
- New transparency, animations, and clean icon design.
- New widgets deliver a personalized feed of news, weather, traffic, sports, and stock market data, powered by AI for customization and Edge for rendering.
- Redesigned Settings app now features a persistent left menu. It saves you from having to back out of nested settings to quickly get to another group.
System requirements
Microsoft has published the following system requirements for Windows 11.
| Item | Requirements |
| Processor | 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC) |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB or larger storage device |
| System firmware | UEFI, Secure Boot capable |
| TPM | Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 |
| Graphics card | Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver |
| Display | High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel |
| Internet connection and MS account | Internet connectivity and WSU account (Wayne State AccessID) |
Resources
Getting started
Once your school, college, or departments project phase has begun, you may be able to initiate installtion before your final project date via the Software Center.
FAQ
- What are the benefits of Windows 11 over Windows 10?
Windows 11 offers new productivity features and functionality designed to meet the challenges of the hybrid world. It has a completely refreshed look and feel that helps you get more done with less stress.
- What will happen to my files during the upgrade?
The default experience will be for files and data to move forward with the new installation. However, we always recommend that you back up files before installing a new Windows version. If you already synchronize your files to OneDrive, you may not need to take any additional action to create a backup.
- Will Windows 11 work with my current accessories?
Most software and accessories that worked with Windows 10 are expected to work with Windows 11. Check with your software publisher or accessory manufacturer for specific details on your products.
- How long does it take to upgrade to Windows 11?
Timing will vary, particularly based on internet speed. Downloading and installing Windows 11 will take longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update. You can use your PC while you are downloading it and then you have the option to schedule the installation to happen at a specific time when you are not planning to use your PC.
- Why do I see a “What needs your attention” message when I try to upgrade?
If you see this type of message, you may be trying to upgrade a PC that does not meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.
- What are Snap layouts and how do I use them?
Snap layouts are preconfigured ways to organize windows on your screen.
- How do I use the new centered Taskbar in Windows 11?
The Taskbar has changed with Windows 11 and you can personalize it in many ways—change the color, pin your favorite apps to it, and move or rearrange taskbar buttons.
- What security features does Windows 11 include?
Windows 11 was designed with multiple layers of protection to help keep your apps, information, and identity secure—including malware protection, phishing prevention, and app security.
- Can the old right-click context menu be restored in Windows 11?
You can show the Legacy Right Click Context menu by clicking Show more options at the end of the list or pressing Shift+F10. If you want it by default, you need to add a registry entry below so that every time you right-click a File or Folder, it shows the Legacy Context menu by default.
- What should I do if I receive an email notification for this change but not the installation on my assigned computer?
There are multiple reasons a user may receive email notifications for one or more phases of this project and not see the installation on their assigned device. The most likely explanation is that the user has multiple work assignments or reporting structures at the university. That means they may be included in the distribution populations for multiple project phases but only slated for installation once. We do our best to remove duplicates from our data and sometimes these notices are sent in error. If you experience this error or something similar, please contact win11@wayne.edu.