ITS will push the Windows 11 upgrade out to all Windows computers beginning the evening of Thursday, May 2. Here is some important advance information to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible. 

First, back up any data saved on your computer’s hard drive (C:) or it may be lost. Complete your data backup before you initiate the upgrade process. ITS strongly recommends saving your files in your OneDrive; files saved there will be accessible anywhere you login to your Drake account. If you choose to use a personally-owned external hard drive, ITS will not be able to assist with retrieving your files in the event something goes wrong.  

When the update becomes available starting on Thursday, you will receive a Windows Update notification on your computer and will be able to choose when to begin. 

• If you’re ready to begin immediately, select the “Restart now” option.
• If you’re not ready, select either “Pick a time” (which allows you to delay initiating the upgrade up to 28 days maximum) or “Restart tonight” (to install overnight).

You must upgrade by May 30; after that point, it will be forced. On average, the upgrade should take around 30 minutes, during which your computer will be unavailable for any other tasks. Make sure you have reliable connections to power and the Internet for the duration of the process. 

Once the upgrade is complete, you’ll be able to log back in. The primary change you should notice is that the start menu and application icons on the taskbar will be centered at the bottom of your desktop. 

If you notice any issues or have questions, contact us by submitting a “Software Issue” ticket through our service portal (service.drake.edu/its) or by calling the Support Center at 515-271-3001. 

— Jerome Hilscher, ITS