Windows 11/Office 2021 Upgrade
In the coming year, we will begin updating campus Windows PCs from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and from Office 2016 to Office 2021. Mac systems, likewise, will see updates to Office 2021 along with operating system updates to macOS. This process will take a number of months and will be aided by your cooperation and patience.
Our planned upgrade process:
- Summer
- Lab computers
- Classroom PCs
- Individuals upon request (see the "Early volunteers" section below to sign up)
- Fall
- Employee workstations
Note: We will schedule these upgrades individually via work orders at helpdesk.augustana.edu For most users, it can be done while you are away from your computer and you will experience no downtime. If you have a laptop, we may need to schedule a window of a couple hours where we can perform the updates here in ITS.
- Employee workstations
Early volunteers
If you are interested in being upgraded to Windows 11 and Office 2021 sooner than later, let us know by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/2Ki8L9cCbgvH8bQZ7 Before you volunteer, consider:
- Your role
- How the update may impact your workflow
- When you prefer to learn new software – well in advance, or while you are using it.
Why we are doing this update:
While Windows 11 has been out for several years and many users are already familiar with it, Microsoft will formally end their support, including security updates, for Windows 10 and Office 2016 in October of 2025.
What you need to know:
- Windows 11 has some changes with the look, feel, menu options, and toolbars.
- There may be some compatibility issues and some older hardware will need upgrades.
- Windows has provided information on the new features:
- ITS recommends employees consider viewing these LinkedIn Learning courses to prepare.
Note: You do not need to watch the full playlist. Each course has a table of contents and a searchable transcript to find the exact information that you are looking for. - Microsoft provides the most current features in its online version of Office, Office 365 and it is continually updated.. All campus users have access to Office 365 at office.com.