Windows 10 Support Ends Oct 14: COE IT Begins Windows 11 Upgrade Rollout
Microsoft has confirmed that all editions of Windows 10 reach end-of-support on October 14, 2025. After that date the company will stop releasing security patches, bug fixes, and technical assistance for the operating system. To keep every computer in the College of Engineering secure and compliant, the College of Engineering IT team will begin rolling out Windows 11 this summer. Below is what you can expect and how to prepare.
What about Office on Windows 10? Microsoft 365 Apps (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, etc.) installed on Windows 10 will stop receiving new feature updates once Version 2608 is released in August 2026. From then until October 10, 2028, the apps will get security fixes only; innovation and new capabilities will appear exclusively on Windows 11.
Key Dates
Milestone | Date | Who’s Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Upgrade release to staff computers | July 23, 2025 | All COE-managed staff PCs that meet Windows 11 hardware requirements |
| Self-service upgrade opens | July 23, 2025 | Faculty and research computers that are Windows 11-capable |
| Individual outreach for incompatible devices | TBD | Systems that do not meet Windows 11 specs |
What Staff Will See
A pop-up with a message of “New features are ready to install” as shown below will appear on your screen.
- You may Restart now or Pick a time.
- Restart Now begins immediately (average 60–90 minutes; your PC restarts several times).
- Pick a time. lets you pick any time before Oct 10.
- Plan ahead: start the upgrade when you won’t need your computer for a class, meeting, or time-sensitive task. Ensure your laptop is connected to power source.
What Non-Staff Users Will See
Faculty and research machines that are Windows 11-ready will get a self-service pop-up. Choose the date/time that works best for you before Oct 10.
When the upgrade is available, a pop-up message will appear.
Click on that notification and click Get in the window that appears OR click on the Self-Service icon from the taskbar, select the COE IT: Upgrade to Windows 11 offer, and then click Get.
You'll be prompted to restart your system when the upgrade is ready to finish installing.
Incompatible Systems
If your computer cannot run Windows 11, we will:
- Procure and deploy Extended Security Updates licenses to ensure Windows 10 systems stay secure and patched after October 14, 2025.
- Contact you directly to discuss Hardware replacement or upgrade options to upgrade your system to Windows 11 by October 14, 2026.
What’s New in Windows 11?
Watch the Windows 11 Introduction video below
Need Help or Have Questions?
- coeithelp@ucdavis.edu | 530-754-3210
Staying on a supported OS is critical for data security, research integrity, and compliance with university policy. Thanks for partnering with us to ensure a smooth transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11.