Coming soon: Windows 11 and Office 2021

Do you use managed staff PC (desktop or laptop)?  If yes, then read on.  

Following a successful pilot scheme in UAS and GLAM, Windows 11, including Microsoft Office 2021, will soon be rolled out more widely to users of managed PCs at the University.   

When will the upgrade happen?

From early November 2024 IT Services will be contacting groups of managed staff PC (previously CONNECT) users with information about their upgrade, including when it will be available and how to do the upgrade.  

The upgrade is straightforward, and you do it yourself, at a time that suits you. You can complete the upgrade in the office or at home if you have a laptop and your internet download speed is fast enough.  

The upgrade usually takes around 2-3 hours, although this could be longer so please make sure you allow plenty of time. We recommend choosing a time when you have nothing else planned, for example overnight or when you know you will not need to use your computer for several hours.

Everyone with a managed staff PC (desktop or laptop) should complete the upgrade before July 2025. If you do not complete the upgrade, your device will automatically be updated but you will not be able to choose when this might happen. We strongly recommend completing the upgrade yourself at a time that suits you to avoid the inconvenience of an automatic update. 

If you manage your own device 

Self-managed device users will need to arrange their own upgrade before October 2025. Windows 10 and Office 2019 will not receive security updates beyond this date so will not be suitable for general use at the University.   

So, what’s the difference between Windows 10 and 11? 

With a professional look and feel, Windows 11 allows for improved collaboration when sharing files between users. You can see the main differences in the Windows 11 guide and Office 2021 guides. You can also check out these Windows 11 features and tips and discover features to help make your day easier.  

If you use Microsoft Project and Visio 2016 and 2019, these will no longer work after the upgrade. New licences have been purchased for existing licensed users of these products and you will be able to download the 2021 versions from Oxford Applications Installer after you complete the upgrade. 

Further information and finding help 

The upgrade will be rolled out in groups between November 2024 and July 2025. When it is your turn, you will receive a personal email with details about your upgrade. 

Information about upgrading to Windows 11 and Office 2021 can be found on the IT Help website along with Office and Windows Quick Reference Guides.

If you have questions or need help, please check the website first. If you have issues during your upgrade, please contact us using IT Self Service in the usual way.