End of Windows 10 Support
Since the original newsletter article was published, Microsoft has introduced an option for enterprises to purchase extended support for Windows 10 computers, providing them with an additional year of security patches. Information Technology has purchased extended support for UW-owned Windows 10 computers. For more information, refer to the new Windows 10 Support Extension article.
What it means for our University
Microsoft has announced that it will end free support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. After this date, Microsoft will no longer provide security or software updates for Windows 10.
What does the end of support mean?
When Microsoft ends support for an operating system, it stops releasing updates that protect against new security threats. Without these updates, computers running Windows 10 will become increasingly vulnerable to various cyber threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, exploits, and vulnerabilities.
Our Plan
To ensure the security and efficiency of our network, the Information Technology department will begin blocking network access to any machines still running Windows 10 after Microsoft ends support. This measure is necessary to protect our university's data and systems from potential security risks.
What you need to do
We strongly encourage all faculty, staff, and students to upgrade their devices to Windows 11 or another supported operating system before the October 2025 deadline. If your current device does not meet the requirements for Windows 11, please consider upgrading your computer.
Information Technology has begun reaching out to units across campus to notify them of known machines that cannot run Windows 11 so they can plan to budget for their replacements.
Starting in May, Information Technology will begin pushing Windows 11 upgrades out to computers that can support the update. The upgrade process will be distributed in waves of around 200 computers each week and proceed through the summer. When the Windows 11 upgrade is presented to a computer, users have the ability to delay the upgrade for up to 30 days, but once the 30-day window ends, the update will complete.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the upgrade plans, please fill out the Windows 11 Upgrade Inquiry form.
