Windows 11 Operating System Coming to Campus

Users should back up data and inventory ECU-related software for reinstallation

Published Dec 12, 2024 by
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ECU will soon begin the migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for university-owned computers. Windows 11 is the latest operating system released by Microsoft and provides both improved security and performance. All newly purchased or reimaged university-owned Windows computers will be deployed with Windows 11. Please don’t worry – we will guide you through this process!

What should I do?

  • You may have already received a new university-owned computer already installed with Windows 11  ̶  then you have nothing to think about!
  • If you have an older issued university-owned computer, back up your data to OneDrive or Piratedrive.
  • Inventory your software (instructions are in the Process – Software Licensing & User Compliance Knowledge Base article) and ensure programs have been approved for use in approximately the last two years for ECU business, research, and/or academic-related activities. This includes any free software that you have installed.

NOTE: It is important that users only install software on university-owned computers that has been approved by the Technology Acquisition Committee (TAC). Regardless of funding source (even if self-purchased), all technology purchases must follow the guidelines put forth by the TAC.

If you believe software you have been using ̶ not previously approved by the TAC or approved by the TAC prior to the 2023-2024 academic year ̶ is necessary for your work at ECU, please visit the Technology Purchase Process Knowledge Base article as soon as possible for more information about the request process. While ECU cannot guarantee approval of all software requests, we intend to remain flexible and will accommodate requests that meet university security standards and technology policies.

  • Windows 11 does have hardware requirements that need to be met for the upgrade to be successful. If you don’t believe your computer is compatible with Windows 11, please contact the ECU IT Service Desk at 252-328-9866 or 800-340-7081 so that we can determine the best resolution to the problem and move you to Windows 11.

What about computer labs?

Computer labs will transition to Windows 11 late spring or summer 2025. More details will be provided in the future.
Sneak peak into Windows 11 features:

  • New Start menu with quicker access to apps and files
  • New Settings app
  • New Windows Widgets app for quickly accessing your news, weather and sports scores.
  • Improved multi-monitor support
  • Windows 11 will remember your apps and settings when you connect an external display
    Improved Windows Clipboard
  • 40% performance improvement to Windows Update

We are here for you 100% for this transition. We will be providing additional guidance, instructional videos, and website resources to help you. Stay tuned for additional ECU Technology News communications with more information.

Questions? Need more information?