/
Computer Replacement and Windows 11 Upgrade Project

Computer Replacement and Windows 11 Upgrade Project

FAQ

Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025 and will no longer provide security or any other updates for the platform.

To comply with cyber and IT security requirements and minimize risks for the school, university, and UNLV Health, all Microsoft Windows devices must be transitioned to Windows 11.

  • All employees with an organization-provided Windows 10 computer

  • All shared space computers (conference rooms, classrooms, etc.)

  • Supervisors and managers will be notified of the specific dates IT will visit their location to complete the upgrade/replacement.

  • Scheduled work will also be posted on the SOM Status Page

  • Employees are encouraged to subscribe to updates (both email and SMS/Text notifications are available).

  • Walkthroughs: IT will perform an initial walkthrough of each location after business hours to account for all equipment. No action is needed from you during this time.

  • Devices: A laptop-first approach will be utilized for personally assigned devices and desktops will continue to be deployed in shared spaces (i.e., clinic front desk, classrooms, conference rooms, medical assistant/nursing stations). Location-specific information will be provided.

  • Training: IT will provide resources to support users transitioning to Windows 11.

  • On-site Support: IT will have staff on-site at each location following the upgrade/replacement to resolve any immediate issues and assist employees.


What actions do I need to take?

Employees

Your original computer may be reimaged and reassigned to another location, meaning all data, settings, and programs will be immediately and permanently erased.

Before the swap - on your current computer

Unique programs

Make note of any unique programs that you have installed.

Enable Google Sync

Sync saves and transfers your bookmarks, saved passwords, browsing history, and other Chrome data

https://unlvsom.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/17/article/906592277

Save any local* files to the network or Google Drive

Move local files to secure file storage

*Local files are files saved to your individual machine -
Files under This PC - Desktop, Documents, Downloads, etc.
See image

Screenshot 2025-02-25 134547.png

After the swap - on your new computer

Sign into Chrome and turn on Google Sync

Your bookmarks, saved passwords, and other Chrome data will sync and become available

Unique programs

Notify SOM IT of any unique programs that still need to be installed.

Access the network file share and
your Google Drive files


Supervisors

  • Ensure all employees have their devices and power cables onsite during your scheduled window for replacement. Computers will not be upgraded without both the current computer and its power cable.

  • Ensure your teams have prepared their computers for the replacements.

  • Your cooperation and communication to your team are critical to the success of this project.


What to know about Windows 11

  • Windows 11 Quick Tips in Rebelearn (26 mins)

  • Windows 11 Snap Layouts

  • Updated Default Apps in Windows 11

    • Many of the old Windows standbys—Paint, Photos, Notepad, Media Player, Mail, and so on—have or will be updated for the new look and in some cases get new features.

    • A great case in point is the humble Clock app, which Windows 11 endows with a super productivity feature: Focus Sessions.

    • With Focus Sessions, you set boundaries for when you want undistracted time for getting stuff done.

  • A Redesigned Settings App

    • The redesigned Settings app now features a persistent left menu. It saves you from having to back out of nested settings to quickly get to another group. Otherwise, you get most everything found in Windows 10's Settings.

  • Multiple Desktops in Windows 11

    • You can set a different background color or image for each virtual desktop you have, which makes a lot of sense if you have one desktop for work and another for personal use, for example.

    • Note that you can only set the backgrounds to be pictures or solid colors. If you want a slideshow background or Theme, then that background will apply to all desktops. The Snap Layouts mentioned above can also be used separately on each desktop.

    • For more, read How to Manage Virtual Desktops in Windows 11.

Related content