Getting ready for Windows 11

Backing up your data

Before you upgrade your device to Windows 11, it is imperative you back up your data. To help you do this, we are deploying OneDrive to devices up to two weeks prior to your Windows 11 upgrade slot. You will know when you have OneDrive installed by the small cloud icon that will appear in the notification area on the right of your taskbar (near the clock). You may need to click the up arrow to view the icon.

OneDrive will only sync files which are saved in the Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders to the cloud. Any files or data not saved under these folders will not be synced and are therefore not backed up. Video files must be saved to the Pictures directory. 

Note that files in your Downloads folder will not be backed up, so if you have any files stored there that you need to keep, make sure to move them to your Documents folder.

You will need to ensure that your files or data are saved to these folders prior to your Windows 11 upgrade.

If you use Box to save your files or data, please continue to do so. Data saved to Box is already backed up.

Read our Using OneDrive for your Windows 11 upgrade guide.

When to upgrade

Your Windows 11 upgrade is ready and you're in your department Windows 11 upgrade slot, here’s what you need to do.

You will receive prompts to install the Windows 11 upgrade during your department upgrade slot. During this time, you will be able to choose when you upgrade your device.

You can opt for an immediate upgrade if it is convenient to you, you can schedule the upgrade for a time that works better for you, or you can snooze and be reminded to upgrade later.

The upgrade will take up to two hours so you may wish to schedule it to run after working hours. Please do not shut down your PC/laptop when the upgrade is due to take place.

Before you begin your upgrade, make sure you have saved and backed up your files and data.

Watch this video on how to install the Windows 11 upgrade

How to upgrade manually

You can choose to upgrade your device manually, at a time that is convenient to you. Please remember the installation can take up to 2 hours. If working from home or hybrid working, please be aware the upgrade requires the download of a large file, if you have slow home internet this may extend the time it takes for the computer to upgrade. In this case, we recommend performing the upgrade on campus.

1. Search for the Software Center on the Windows search bar. Click open.

2. In the Software Center, select Operating Systems and select In Place Upgrade Windows 11 then Install.

5. Note your device will restart multiple times.

6. The upgrade will take about an hour to install but it may take up to two hours depending on your internet connection.  If working from home or hybrid working, please be aware the upgrade requires the download of a large file, if you have slow home internet this may extend the time it takes for the computer to upgrade. In this case, we recommend performing the upgrade on campus.

7. When finished you will be presented with the Windows 11 log in screen where you can log in as usual with your Essex IT account.

Good to know

If you have not installed Windows 11 by your upgrade deadline, your device will be forced to upgrade. If your device is switched off at this time, it will automatically upgrade when it is next powered on.  You will not be able to use your device whilst the installation runs and it may take up to two hours before you can use the device again.

Do not shut down your computer on this day and remember to save/close any work that you have open.

Where do I get help?

If you need any help during your upgrade timeslot, you can contact our IT Helpdesk team who can help you in the first instance. We will provide dedicated support to departments who are in their Windows 11 upgrade two week timeslot and for one week following your upgrade slot.  

Thank you for your support as we rollout Windows 11.

FAQs