Windows 11 Upgrade Project
Dear LAS Colleagues,
Subject: Upcoming Windows 11 Upgrade Project
We are excited to inform you about an upcoming project that will impact your department: the Windows 11 Upgrade Project.
Why the Upgrade?
In alignment with UIC Technology Solutions policies and to ensure our systems remain secure and up-to-date, LAS IT will begin transitioning departments from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The project will be executed in phases to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth transition. LAS IT management will coordinate with departmental business managers to schedule the upgrade and conduct an onsite survey.
What Actions Are Required from You?
- Business Managers: Please prepare and submit a list of all departmental office spaces, users (including Emeritus and remote staff), and the IT equipment assigned to them.
- Departments/Users: You are responsible for backing up your data before the upgrade. We highly recommend using One Drive, Box, or an external hard drive for backups at least one week before the upgrade. LAS IT is not responsible for any data loss during the upgrade. Data recovery can be costly so we strongly recommend using the cloud applications mentioned.
- University-Owned Computers: We recommend that all university-owned computers, including remote laptops, be brought to campus and connected to an Ethernet cable on the Friday evening before your departments scheduled upgrade, and remain on campus throughout the weekend. Users should sign out of their computers and leave them powered on. If it is impossible to return a device to campus, the upgrade will initiate once the device is returned to campus or connected to the VPN. Please plan accordingly.
Additional Notes:
- Devices not compatible with Windows 11 will be updated to the latest version of Windows 10. However, all LAS computers must have Windows 11 installed before October 2025. Any device not compatible with Windows 11 must be retired before the October 2025 deadline. Business Managers will be informed of such devices to facilitate planning.
- Business Managers should collaborate with Department Heads to address any budgetary implications for FY26.
Thank you for your cooperation and support as we undertake this critical initiative. If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please feel free to contact LAS IT.
Anthony Briscoe, Executive Director of Information Technology, briscoe9@uic.edu
Ryan Hannigan, Infrastructure Manager, hannigan@uic.edu