Introduction
As Microsoft is ending support for Windows 10 in October 2025, Technology Services is proactively preparing to upgrade Columbia College computers to the latest stable Windows 11 operating system. This upgrade will ensure that our systems are secure, efficient, and ready for the start of classes in Fall 2025. The transition to Windows 11 will bring enhanced features, improved performance, and a modern interface that will benefit both students and staff.
Upgrade Time Line:
March 31st 2025 - Pilot Testing - Group 1 (Completed)
May 12th 2025 - Pilot Testing - Group 2 (Completed)
June 2nd 2025 - Classroom upgrades began (Completed)
June 2nd 2025 - Self service options for employees to manually install the Windows 11 Upgrade started to become available in the Software Center (Completed)
July 28th 2025 - Self services options for employees to manually install the Windows 11 Upgrade are now available in the Software Center to all employees that are on Windows 11 compatible devices. This option is available until August 8th 2025 (Ongoing)
July 28th 2025 - Scheduling for CCG locations to be upgraded finalized, Upgrades have begun at multiple CCG locations (Ongoing)
August 11th 2025 - Targeted upgrades will be scheduled with anyone that has not upgraded through the Software Center (Ongoing)
August 18th 2025 - Faculty devices that have no been upgraded or replaced already. (Upcoming)
September - Cleanup period. Final checks for devices that have not been upgraded. (Upcoming)
Device Upgrades by the Numbers:
Faculty and Staff: 83% Completed
Common Areas / Shared Devices: 60% Completed
Standard Classrooms: 100% Completed
Lab Classrooms: In progress!
Main Campus - 56% Completed
CCG - 35% Completed
Updated: 8/15/25
Upgrade Instructions
For anyone that is currently assigned a Windows 11 compatible device, and you have not already upgraded to Windows 11, please follow these Knowledge articles for help in installing the upgrade yourself. Please note that at least 75gb of storage is needed to perform the upgrade. Tech Services has already reached out to anyone that was identified to not have enough space or that need their device replaced.
For all employees that can it is recommended to perform any backups or upgrades while connected to the main campus network through Ethernet. You can however go through the processes while connected to VPN remotely, please be aware that doing so may result in longer time to complete the processes.
Backup your files:
Article - Windows 11 - Device Backup ... This article will help with backing up your files to your personal share drive (I:Drive)
Manually install Windows 11 Upgrade:
Article - Microsoft Windows 11 - Manu... This article will help walk you through installing the Windows 11 Upgrade your self. The upgrade can take up to an hour, so allocate free time so that it does not interrupt your work.
As with all things, if you run into issues or you need help with backing up your files, or the update fails. Please reach out to the Solutions Center here Service - Employee General Request Ti... or call us at 573-875-4357 so that we can assist you further.
What's New?
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Known Issues
Rare cases browser bookmarks might be lost depending on if you upgrade was successful. Follow this KB for backing up your bookmarks - Article - Windows 11 - Saving Browser...
Training Resources
LinkedIn Learning for Staff and Faculty
Working faster in Windows | LinkedIn Learning
Microsoft Information
Meet Windows 11: The basics - Microsoft Support