Windows 11 Release Information
Microsoft's most recent operating system, Windows 11, comes pre-installed on some new PCs and is available as an upgrade for compatible computers. For a full listing of new features, please visit Microsoft's official Windows 11 website.
Recommendation: Upgrade
As with many new operating system releases, there are initially a number of incompatibilities with regularly used applications; however, OIT is satisfied that Windows 11 is compatible with supported services and users should feel free to upgrade when convenient. Follow OIT’s Windows 11 Upgrade tutorial for step-by-step instructions for this upgrade.
OIT recommends that before upgrading to any new operating system, ensure your most used applications are compatible by checking the compatibility issues testing information below, or by contacting the vendor directly. You may also want to visit Microsoft's system requirements for Windows 11 to ensure your device can run this operating system.
If you choose to upgrade and run into problems that cannot be resolved, you may need to revert to an earlier version of Windows, which entails backing up your files and doing a fresh install. For assistance, please schedule an appointment to bring your computer to the OIT Buff Techs Walk-In Center, contact Dedicated Desktop Support, or email the IT Service Center at oithelp@colorado.edu.
New Windows 11 features
After installing Windows 11, you’ll notice a number of new features and adjustments to the operating system. While most updates are fairly intuitive, it may take some time to get used to these changes. OIT recommends the following resources from Microsoft and LinkedIn Learning to learn more about new features:
- Meet Windows 11: Microsoft’s overview page is a great resource to start when learning about new features, app updates and other changes in Windows 11.
- New Look: Check out the main changes that users will notice to Windows 11 UI including the taskbar, search, and personalization features like dark mode.
- Apps and Tools: Get a preview of popular Microsoft tools in Windows 11.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Find shortcuts in Windows 11 to save time and better organize your desktop.
- Windows 11 Quick Tips (LinkedIn Learning video): Watch this course to learn quick tips that will help you work efficiently with the new OS.
- Windows 11 Essential Training (LinkedIn Learning video): This comprehensive video is a great resource to learn everything from configuration options, file folder management and get a preview of the AI enhancements in Windows 11.
Dedicated Desktop Support Customers
Computers that are enrolled in Dedicated Desktop Support were prevented from upgrading to Windows 11 as OIT worked to resolve compatibility issues, but should be able to upgrade now. If you are supported by DDS and are interested in upgrading, use your computer's self service application to upgrade or contact your DDS Technician for assistance. Follow OIT’s Windows 11 Upgrade tutorial for step-by-step instructions for this upgrade.
Compatibility Testing
Testing of Windows 11 is has been conducted by OIT. Campus services and supported software are compatible with Windows 11 and we recommend upgrading. If new incompatibilities arise or if we become aware of known issues, we will report the results on this page.