How to Update to Windows 11 from Software Center

*Beginning March 4th, Information Technology (IT) will make the Windows 11 upgrade available to all compatible JMU-managed endpoints via Software Center*

Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 Enterprise on October 10, 2025. JMU IT has recently provided the option to optionally update compatiable machines to Windows 11 through Software Center. This is to minimize the need for devices to need a reimage, while also providing you or your department's Technology Coordinator to update when more convienent. While not required, it would be recomended that you attempt to complete these updates while your device is on-campus. This is to ensure that if there is an issue that needs to be adressed quickly, our Endpoint Services team will be readily availble to diagnose and assist

Be aware that departments will have a Deadline to complete these updates, which will be noted in the Software Center update. Once this date occurs, the Windows 11 Update will begin automatically, and cannot be stopped.

Note: As a reminder, we recommend that all incompatible machines - which may be device's that ESN's are 18 or lower - be replaced by June 2025. Information Technology will begin upgrading all eligible computers to Windows 11 in January 2025.

How to update to Windows 11 through Software Center

1. On your Desktop, click on the Windows Icon down at the bottom-left
2. Type Software Center and click on the application it when it appears
3. Select Operating Systems on the left-hand side, and click on the listing for Windows 11 24H2 Upgrade (v1.14)
4. In the new window, click Install

What happens when the Deadline occurs

If you have not updated prior to the scheduled deadline, Software Center will alert you that the update is pending, as well as when it will be completed. Once the update occurs, you will then go through the installation process.

How the Windows 11 Update looks

Once you have begun the Windows 11 Update, you will see a box appear similar to the one below. This window can be moved, but not closed or minimized. It would be encouraged that once you begin this Update you have:

• All background applications closed
• Your device connected to power and (if available) Ethernet or wired network)
• Your device is not shut off unless requested by the Update

After the upgrade to Windows 11, your computer will check for the latest Microsoft updates and further system restarts may be required. In total, the process to update your device may take 120 to 180 minutes, depending on the specific model. For a portion of that time, you will still be able to use your device, however we encourage watching the prompts, as they will make you aware or upcoming restarts or changes that need to be made. 

Note: this schedule is subject to change.

The first date listed represents when the installation first becomes available for each group, with the 2nd date listed being the deadline enforcement date.

• Available to Production (March 4)
• Administration and Finance, not including Facilities, Accounting Services, and Intercollegiate Athletics (March 27-April 10)
• College of Science and Math (March 27-April 17)
• Graduate Psychology, Kinesiology, Psychology, College of Arts and Letters (April 1-April 24)
• College of Business, Libraries (April 7-May 20)
• Access and Enrollment Management, President's Office, University Advancement (April 15-May 15)
• Academic Affairs (May 20-June 5)
• Facilities, Accounting Services (May 27-June 12)
• College of Education, Intercollegiate Athletics, Information Technology, Public Safety (June 3-June 24)
• Student Administration (June 10-June 26)
• University Recreation, University Health Center, Graduate School (June 17-July 1)
• College of Health and Behavioral Studies (July 8-July 24)
• College of Visual and Performing Arts, any others missed (July 15-July 31)

How can I update to Windows 11

Where is the Windows 11 Update