Overview
The Windows 11 upgrade is required for all university-owned Windows computers used by faculty and staff. However, there are exceptions:
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Exemptions:
- Departments that received new computers in summer 2024.
- Departments scheduled to receive new computers in summer 2025.
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Upgrade Deadline:
- All other department computers must complete the Windows 11 upgrade by October 2025.
If you're unsure of the Windows version installed on your computer, please contact the Help Desk at x6400 or email helpdesk@richmond.edu for assistance.
Details / Instructions
*** Upgrading to Windows 11 normally will not affect any documents / data on your system however it is a good idea to make sure all of your data is backed up before starting the upgrade.
Data Backup Information: https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/Requests/ServiceDet?ID=35886
Requirements before upgrading to Windows 11:
Please run the following updates.
https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=104650
https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=150286
Note: If Windows 11 is an option to install in Windows Update during this step you may choose "Download & Install" to start the Windows 11 installation and Skip to Step 8 below.
If Windows 11 does not appear in Windows Update continue following the instructions below.
Installation Directions:
***Please restart the computer prior to starting the Windows 11 install.***
1) Navigate to https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11 (any web browser is OK).
2) Click "Download Now" below the "Windows 11 installation Assistant" (this is the very first "Download Now" button on the page).
3) Once the download finishes, open the file "Windows11InstallationAssistant.exe" to start the Windows 11 installation.
4) If a "User Account Control" window opens, click "Yes" to allow the installation to continue.
5) Click "Accept and Install" in the "Windows 11 Installation Assistant" window.
6) The download / installation process will begin. You may continue using your computer during this process which may take an hour or longer.
7) Click "Restart Now" when prompted. If you are actively using the system at this time you may wait up to 30 minutes before the installation will force a restart. The system will install Windows 11 and reboot to the login screen when completed.
8) When the "Choose privacy settings for your device" window appears after Windows 11 is installed please decline all privacy options.
Note: There is a hidden scroll bar on the right-side of this window, you will need to scroll down to toggle all of the options.
Location: Yes
Diagnostic Data: Required Only
Tailored Experiences: No
Find My Device: No
Inking & Typing: No
Advertising ID: No
9) Click "Next" / "Accept" after you have made these selections.
Some systems cannot be upgraded to Windows 11 and the Windows 11 installation assistant will fail to perform the upgrade, this is generally due to outdated hardware.
Contact the Help Desk if you have any questions or difficulties with this process.
See Also
Windows 11 Frequently Asked Questions: https://spidertechnet.richmond.edu/TDClient/1955/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=149634