1. Davidson Technology & Innovation
  2. Desktop, Laptop & Mobile Computing
  3. Windows

Upgrading to Windows 11

Before You Upgrade

While Windows 11 maintains compatibility with most standard software applications, there are some important considerations before proceeding with your upgrade:

  • Davidson College’s standard office applications, such as the Microsoft Office suite, web browsers, and the Adobe Suite are fully compatible with Windows 11.
  • If your device runs specialized software (such as devices that connect to research lab equipment), please verify that it is compatible with Windows 11 prior to upgrading. 
  • Your files and settings will be preserved during the upgrade process.
  • Note:  The upgrade often takes up to 1.5-2 hours to complete. You can typically use your computer for the first 15 minutes or so, but the upgrade will reach a point where you will have 5 minutes to finish your work before the device restarts. 
  • You should know:  T&I is not requiring the update at this moment, however it is recommended you update now to be able to update at a convenient time. At this time, we will be required by Microsoft to update by Fall 2025.  Deadlines to upgrade will be coming from T&I at a later date. 

Upgrading your device

The Windows 11 upgrade is currently available through Software Center (an application on your Davidson device). You can find Software Center by searching for it in the Windows Start Menu by selecting the “Type here to search” box in the bottom left corner of your screen. 

Note:  While T&I recommends being on campus for the update, you can access Software Center and complete the updates from off-campus by first connecting to VPN . 

The upgrade for Windows 11 is split into two parts. Both parts must be completed for the update.  Part 1 contains prerequisites required to complete the upgrade itself (Part 2).

Both parts can be found in the Software Center under the Operating Systems tab. When running Part 1, your device may reboot multiple times. After it reboots, make sure to sign back in to allow the updates to continue. Once the progress bar disappears, Part 1 is completed. 

After Part 1 is completed, you can start Part 2 from the Software Center under the Operating Systems tab located on the right hand side. Part 2 typically takes longer than part 1, but you can leave your device while it continues the updates on its own.

After the updates are complete, note that your first sign-in will take longer than usual. 

If you encounter any issues during this process, don’t hesitate to contact T&I at ti@davidson.edu, and please include any error messages or codes you may have received. 

Getting Familiar with Windows 11

Don't worry!  While Windows 11 brings a fresh new look, most features and functions remain in familiar locations. Think of it as a fresh coat of paint on your computer. Here are the most noticeable changes you'll encounter:

Search

  • The search interface has been refined but functions similarly
  • Recent searches and frequently used apps appear more prominently

Remember: If you can't find something right away, the search function remains your best friend - just press the Windows key  and start typing!

Start Menu and Taskbar

  • The Start button and pinned apps are now centered on the taskbar by default
    Tip: Prefer the traditional left-aligned taskbar? You can easily change this:
    1. Open Settings
    2. Go to Personalization > Taskbar
    3. Click "Taskbar behaviors"
    4. Under "Taskbar alignment," select "Left"
  • The Start menu has a simplified design with pinned apps and recent files
  • The search bar is more streamlined but works the same way

File Explorer

  • The ribbon at the top has been replaced with a simpler command bar
  • Folder icons and the overall interface have a more modern look
  • The right-click menu is more concise, with less-used options moved to a "Show more options" submenu

Settings App

  • The Settings interface has been redesigned but maintains the same categories
  • The search function within Settings is more prominent and helpful
  • System tray and notification settings are more organized and easier to access

Quick Settings

  • Volume, Wi-Fi, and other quick settings are now grouped together in a single panel
  • Access these by clicking the Wi-Fi, speaker, or battery icons in the taskbar
  • Brightness and volume sliders are larger and easier to adjust
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