Information About Campus Windows 11 Upgrade

Fairfield University ITS is beginning the migration from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for all campuses.

Windows 11 is the latest operating system released by Microsoft and features primarily cosmetic differences from Windows 10. This transition is necessary due to Microsoft's planned end of support of Windows 10 in October 2025.

All newly purchased or reconfigured university-owned Windows computers will now be deployed with Windows 11.

What should I do?

• Existing university-owned Windows computers should be upgraded to Windows 11. On August 15th, an update will be available to Windows users through Software Center under the ‘Operating Systems’ tab. Please expect up to 2 hours of downtime for your machine – you are encouraged to start the upgrade when leaving for the day to minimize the impact.

• Windows 11 does have hardware requirements that need to be met for the upgrade to be successful.  If these are not met, please contact the Help Desk so that ITS can determine the best resolution to the problem and move you to Windows 11.

What if I Work Remote?

• In order to upgrade to Windows 11 off-campus, individuals must first connect to the Fairfield University VPN. After connecting to the VPN, you will be able to access the update through Software Center. Instructions for connecting to the VPN can be found at connect.fairfield.edu.

• If you have questions or issues upgrading your machine, please contact the ITS Help Desk at (203)254-4069.

What about Computer Labs and Classrooms?

• All existing computer labs and Registrar-scheduled classroom instructor workstations campuses will be upgraded beginning Summer 2024 Semester and will be completed by the beginning of the Spring 2025 Semester.

• All Registrar-scheduled electronic classrooms will now run Windows 11.

What about Virtual Machines (VDIs)?

• Apporto virtual machines will be upgraded to Windows 11 by the Spring 2025 Semester.

• If you use a Fairfield University hosted VDI, ITS will be upgrading these centrally and the upgrade process will be seamless to the user.

What if I do not Upgrade?

• It is recommended that users initiate the upgrade on their own so that they can best avoid and manage any downtime.  If upgrades are not completed by October 2025, ITS will begin to initiate automatic upgrades on computers.

• If you believe that your computer cannot or should not be upgraded, please contact Fairfield ITS to discuss your concerns prior to the initiation of automatic upgrades.