Windows 10 is currently installed a lot of of VIU provided computers, and is nearing its end-of-life. All new computers being provided by IT are going out the door with Windows 11, and in the coming months we will be migrating existing Windows 10 users to Windows 11. If you want to get a jump on the update, this page will cover the process to request an update to Windows 11 and what you can expect to see on your work computer when it is completed.
Note: These instructions are for VIU employees only. We will be updating VIU issued Employee laptops and desktops to Windows 11 in bulk this fall. This process lets employees make the switch early. Shared computers like lab computers, instructor stations, and computers in common areas are included in a separate Window 11 update schedule. They are being worked on over the summer. There is no need to submit requests for these devices currently.
How do I request a Windows 11 upgrade?
Step 1: Confirm you are running Windows 10
Not sure if you have already been updated to Windows 11? Here is a simple way to check which version of Windows your deice is running!
Step 2: Confirm the Computer/Device name
Once you have confirmed that your computer is running Windows 10, it’s time to copy down your computers Device Name. (You will find the terms computer name and device name used interchangeably in these instructions. They are the same name.)
In the System Specifications window we opened in Step one above, look for a section labeled Device Specifications. At the top of that section, you should find the Device Name. You will want to note that down, as we will need it for Step 3. It will look something Like this:
Step 3: Submitting your Windows 11 Upgrade request.
Once you have confirmed that your computer is running Windows 10, if you want to get a jump on the upgrade process all you need to do is send an email to ithelp@viu.ca . Your name and the Device Name you took note of in Step 2 above should be entered in the subject line and body of the message to ensure fastest response.
The request will be received and processed by your friendly, neighborhood IT Service Desk. Our technicians may reach out with some additional questions. Once everything is good to go, you will be sent instructions on how to perform the update.
What to Expect From the Windows 11 Upgrade
Important Note: Your computer should be plugged in to power before the update runs, and please make sure that you do not unplug the computer or power it off while the installation is in progress.
- The Windows 11 upgrade will be delivered via the Windows Update function of your computer. Once your request to upgrade has been received and processed, you can perform the update by clicking the Windows Icon, then clicking Settings.
- Once the Windows Settings window opens, click Update and Security. Click Check for updates and you will see Windows 11 in the list of available updates.
Start the update and continue working on the computer while it is downloaded and installed. The update will continue running in the background and will not interrupt normal operation of the computer. Testing in-house has shown that it will take 45min-1hr to complete the update process, so we don't recommend kicking this off right before a big meeting or a looming deadline.
- Once the computer has downloaded and installed the update, it will notify you that your computer will need to reboot to apply the changes. You will see one or both of the following notifications:
This is the time to save whatever you are working on and restart your computer to finalize the upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
I Updated to Windows 11. Now What?
We have put together a list of what changes you can expect when moving from Windows 10 to Windows 11. That list can be found here. (https://ithelp.viu.ca/TDClient/169/ITPortal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=12670) The most obvious differences are these;
- Login: When logging into Windows 11, you will use your VIU email address (firstname.lastname@viu.ca) rather than your legacy user name (VIU\LastNameFirstInitial, IE: VIU\SmithJ).
- Taskbar Changes: Windows 11 moves several key taskbar (the bar across the bottom of the screen by default) features like the Start Menu, Search Bar, Windows Explorer, and any applications you have pinned from the left side of the toolbar to the middle.
You can get a look at a summary of the major interface changes in Windows 11 at this link: Meet Windows 11: A whole new look
Beyond that, Windows 11 was designed and intended to work alongside Windows 10 and the transition, while not entirely seamless, should be as smooth as possible. Most applications designed for use with Windows 10 should function just fine in a Windows 11 environment. In the days after you upgrade however, we advise allowing extra time and grace to accomplish your tasks as certain features key to your normal operation may have been renamed or moved. If you're really stumped, please reach out to the VIU IT Client Services Team by emailing ithelp@viu.ca or calling us at 250-740-6300 between 8am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.