Windows 11 Roadmap
Microsoft recently announced the end of life for Windows 10 and released their latest major operating system upgrade, Windows 11. As a result, all Windows 10 systems must upgrade to Windows 11 or be removed from the CSN network by the end of 2024. This roadmap details planning that will inform users of what to expect during the project rollout.
Background & Approach
Windows 11 is a significant upgrade with demanding hardware requirements but improved security to protect systems from the emergence of new malware, ransomware, and other vulnerabilities.
This project will focus on upgrading current Windows 10 systems and identifying replacement systems that are incompatible with Windows 11. To ensure a smooth transition, Digital Experience Services (DxS) is testing various use cases and applications.
Additionally, DxS is preparing a Windows 11 standard image for deployment for CSN-managed systems that will be made available after testing. This will be a collaborative effort between DxS and IT representatives from departments and schools across CSN.
What to Expect
- All systems must be upgraded to Windows 11 by the end of 2024. After this date, Windows 10 systems will no longer be supported.
- The Windows 11 upgrade may require a hardware upgrade for some systems. DxS is developing a replacement program to help transition faculty and staff.
- Preliminary testing has been completed. To see the full list of tested applications, see Windows 11 Application Support Status.
- A standard imaging package will be released to Windows 11 users upon deployment.
- Windows 11 has new security features, changes to the interface, and the start menu. If your system already has Windows 11, DxS can provide standard support for CSN services and software.
- DxS has developed a Windows 11 Quick Guide and a Desktop Experience Changes document to assist in making the transition to the new operating system.
- For more help, visit Microsoft’s Meet Windows 11.
Project Timeline
DATE | STAGE |
August 2023 | Project initiation |
September 2023 | Purchase and setup test equipment |
November 2023 | Project kick-off, develop project schedule, and create a test image |
November 2023 - February 2024 | Complete testing for selected critical applications, announce DxS support for Windows 11 |
November 2023 - February 2024 | Testing: applications, infrastructure, security, upgrades, and group policies |
February 2024 – March 2024 | Beta and Test Phases for faculty and staff deployment |
March 2024 – December 2024 | Multi-phased rollout for faculty and staff deployment |
June 2024 - August 2024 | Start rollout: classroom and labs deployment |
December 2024 | End of Windows 10 support |
Can I upgrade my Windows 10 machine now?
This feature is currently unavailable on managed systems. Updates to Windows 11 are centrally managed and controlled. An early adopter program will be available in Spring 2024.
What version is installed on newly purchased systems?
Windows 10 will continue to be delivered on newly purchased systems via the recommended purchasing channels. This will transition to Windows 11 in Spring 2024.
What should I do if my hardware is not compatible with Windows 11?
DxS has received funding to upgrade existing managed systems that do not support Windows 11. A process is being developed to upgrade these systems with additional details to come.
What should I do if I use an application not listed in the Applications Support Status chart?
If you feel an application should be included in the Windows 11 Application Support Status, please contact the DxS Support Center.
Why did the computer I recently purchased come with Windows 11 installed?
Computers purchased outside of our preferred channels are being shipped with Windows 11.
What should I do if I recently purchased a computer that came with Windows 11?
DxS now supports CSN software and services on Windows 11. If you need any assistance, please contact the DxS Support Center.
