General Information

All users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as possible, if their device supports it. Users who continue using Windows 10 without upgrading are more vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues. Upgrading to Windows 11 will provide access to the latest education features, improved security and a refreshed interface to enhance productivity. 

For personal devices that are not owned by the OSU/A&M system vist support.microsoft.com  to determine if your device is eligible and find instructions on upgrading. IT Administrators are responsible for upgrading devices within the OSU/A&M system.

IT Administrator Information

To ensure the security of the OSU/A&M system's digital space, IT administrators are encouraged to develop a plan for managing this transition to Windows 11 on their area's devices. The information provided below is intended to help in developing those plans.

Windows 11 Hardware Requirements

To upgrade to Windows 11 devices will have to meet certain hardware requirements:

• • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor 
  • RAM: 4 GB or more 
  • Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device 
  • Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0 
    • For instructions on how to check if your device meets this requirement visit Microsoft's Enable TPM 2.0 on your PC.
  • Graphics card: DirectX 12 comptaible graphics/ WDDM 2.x
  • Display: >9" with HD Resolution (720p)

More information about these requirements can be found on the Microsoft's Windows 11 System Requirements Support page.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What does "end of support" mean for Windows 10?
  End of support means that Microsoft will no longer provide updates, including security patches, for Windows 10 after October 14, 2025.
• What happens if I continue to use Windows 10 after the end of support date?
  You can still use Windows 10, but your system will not receive updates or security patches, making it more vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues.
• Will I still be able to use my current applications on Windows 10 after the end of support? 
  Most applications should continue to work, but over time it is possible that some applications will stop supporting Windows 10 and no longer work. Applications may also be at an increase risk of security vulnerabilities when operating on an outdated operating system.
• How can I upgrade to Windows 11?
  For personal devices visit support.microsoft.com  to determine if your device is eligible and find instructions on upgrading. IT Administrators are responsible for upgrading devices in the OSU/A&M system.
• Will I lose my files if I upgrade to Windows 11?
  Generally, you can choose to keep your files and apps during the upgrade process, but it's always advisable to back up important data before preceeding with any update or upgrade. 
• What if I cannot upgraded devices in time?
  IT administrators are able to request Extended Security Updates (ESU) offered through Microsoft. The ESU program allows devices to receive security updates for Windows 10 after the end of life at an additional cost.

  • • $1 per device for Year 1
    • $2 per device for Year 2
    • $4 per device for Year 3.
      

  To request inclusion in this ESU program, IT adminsitrators should contact Enterprise IT through the IT Helpdesk. Devices must meet the following criteria to be eligible for ESU:

  • • Running Windows 10, version 22H2
    • Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education edition
    • Have the latest Windows 10 updates installed before purchasing 

  More details about the ESU program can be found on Microsoft's support pages.

   

  When to Use Windows 10 Extended Security Updates

  Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10