Originally emailed to all Lehigh faculty and staff on April 25, 2024

In light of Microsoft’s upcoming retirement of Windows 10, Library and Technology Services will begin upgrading university-owned computers to Windows 11.

Why this matters:

Microsoft provides monthly security updates to Windows that correct ever-present security vulnerabilities. Timely installation of these updates is critical to protect the security of Lehigh University computers, data, and networks. Upon retirement of Windows 10, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates. This means that using a Windows 10 computer will soon become a pressing security concern.

What you should do:

No specific action is required by individual computer users. LTS will remotely upgrade university-owned systems, including classrooms and LTS computer labs, from Windows 10 to Windows 11. The first reboot post-update may take up to 20-30 minutes to complete depending on computer hardware robustness. The long restart time is not indicative of a problem or malfunction and should simply be left to finish, uninterrupted.

When this will happen:

Beginning in late May, 2024, the Windows 11 update will be released to campus gradually. Administrative stems / units will be targeted first, followed by academic units shortly thereafter.

Important considerations:

Computers purchased in 2018 (or later) are generally compatible with Windows 11. Older computers will not be able to accommodate Windows 11 and will not be permitted on Lehigh's network after October 1, 2025.

LTS understands that in rare cases, software, hardware, and research equipment may still rely on Windows 10. We will continue to provide limited support for stand-alone Windows 10 systems (not connected to the Lehigh network) as needed by clients in these situations.

Please contact the LTS Help Desk (610-758-4357, helpdesk@lehigh.edu) or your Computing Consultant with any questions or concerns you may have about the end of support for Windows 10.

The goal of this automatic upgrade is to ensure the highest level of security at Lehigh, minimize risk, and to protect institutional data from a wide range of threats. These goals are aligned with the goals of the Organization of the Future Initiative and Lehigh’s Strategic Plan.

Sincerely,

Eric Zematis, CISSP, CISM, PMP
Chief Information Security Officer

Ilena Key
Chief Technology Officer