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Summary
Windows 11 offers a redesigned interface, enhanced security features, and improved performance compared to Windows 10. This article provides basic information about upgrading to Windows 11 and instructions for this optional update.
As Windows 10 nears end-of-support from Microsoft in 2025, the option to Upgrade to Windows 11 may appear on computers that have hardware able to handle the upgrade. If you see that option, ET&S recommends that you install the upgrade when it is convenient. This is an in-place upgrade, meaning your applications, settings, and locally stored data should carry through the upgrade process. Some applications and settings may not function once the upgrade is complete, but those are rare cases. You are strongly encouraged to make sure any locally stored data is backed up elsewhere before beginning the upgrade process.
Important: ET&S always recommends you do not store data locally on your computer and that you use OneDrive or another USNH network storage location to store your files so your data is backed up. If at any time your hard drive were to fail, ET&S and other data recovery providers may not be able to recover your data as all office computer hard drives are encrypted. To learn more about OneDrive, visit our knowledge articles on OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive and OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders .
An operating system upgrade may take up to an hour or two to complete. Be sure to:
- plug your computer into power,
- save all work, and
- close all applications prior to installing any upgrade.
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What are the benefits of Windows 11 over Windows 10?
Windows 11 offers new productivity features and functionality designed to meet the challenges of the hybrid world. It has a completely refreshed look and feel that helps you get more done with less stress. Learn more about what’s new at Windows.com/Windows-11.
How long does it take to upgrade to Windows 11?
Timing will vary, particularly based on Internet speed. Downloading and installing Windows 11 will most likely take longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update. You may use your PC while the upgrade is downloading and installing. Laptops should be plugged into power before starting this upgrade.
Once it is downloaded and installed, you may reboot immediately or schedule the reboot to happen at a specific time when you will not be using your PC. You cannot use your computer while it reboots and completes the upgrade, which may take a long time.
Optional Upgrade to Windows 11
The University is enabling an optional upgrade to Windows 11 for eligible USNH-managed computers before the 2025 deadline so that faculty and staff can choose a time that works for them to upgrade to Windows 11 before it is required. The upgrade may already be available for personal computers.
The optional upgrade can be found in Settings -> Windows Updates and will look like the following:
Click Download and install to begin the upgrade to Windows 11. The process will take some time, usually between 30 minutes and one hour although it can take longer. Please ensure that your computer is plugged in throughout the process. Once it is downloaded and installed, you may reboot immediately or schedule the reboot to happen at a specific time when you will not be using your PC. You cannot use your computer while it reboots and completes the upgrade, which may take a long time.
Over 1000 devices are already on Windows 11 today at the university. We appreciate your help in getting us from Windows 10 to Windows 11 before October 2025.
Further Readings
Installing Windows Updates or Version Upgrades
OneDrive: Accessing/Logging in to OneDrive
OneDrive: Synchronizing Files/Folders
Need additional help?
Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.