This guide is designed for Rice employees using Rice-owned computers with the Windows 10 operating system.
"With intuitive navigation and new multitasking tools, Windows 11 brings you the performance you want and the security you need." (from the Meet Windows 11 website)
Overview
Microsoft has announced that beginning October 15, 2025, no new features or security updates will be released for Windows 10. Over the coming months, the Rice Office of Information Technology (OIT) will start to deploy Windows 11 on Rice-owned computers to maintain a secure environment and stay current with technology. Learn more about Rice's Windows 11 Migration Initiative in the video below, and review the topics below to help you prepare to upgrade to the new operating system. Learn more about this project on the Windows 11 Migration Project Website.
Before Upgrading to Windows 11
Perform the following tasks before moving to Windows 11:
Record Software License Keys
Find and record all of the license keys for software you have installed that is compatible with Windows 11. Keep the license keys in an accessible location in case you need to reinstall the software after upgrading to Windows 11.
Backup the Computer
OIT strongly recommends backing up your computer regularly, and required prior to installing Windows 11. Visit the Rice Storage, File Sharing, and Backup Solutions article to review backup options for your computer before installing Windows 11.
The Windows 11 Migration Plan
New Computers Ordered through Rice
All new Windows machines ordered through Rice's computer vendors will include Windows 11 in your ticket request.
Existing Computers
OIT is working with department administrators to assess machine readiness for all computers within the group. OIT and your department administrator will contact you when it is time to schedule your Windows 11 upgrade consultation.
Learn more by visiting the Windows 11 Migration Project Website.
New Look and Features
The table below highlights changes to the operating system appearance and key features of Windows 11.
New Look
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Start Menu and Taskbar Icons
- All icons have been moved to the middle of the screen.
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Right-Click Menus
- The options for cut, copy, and paste are now represented by icons at the top of the menu that appears when you right-click.
- There are new options when you right-click on the desktop.
- Right-click menu options have been reorganized into a streamlined presentation.
The traditional right-click menu can still be accessed by selecting "Show more options" at the bottom of the right-click menu. Visit this page to learn more about the updated right-click menu options.
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New Features
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| The Snap feature provides new ways to organize multiple application windows on your screen. Visit this page to learn more about the Snap feature. |
Videos to Learn More About Windows 11
Microsoft offers a collection of videos introducing new Windows 11 features. Select your topics from the list below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the Microsoft website for more details about the new features in Windows 11.
Visit the Windows 11 Migration Project Website for more details on the Migration Expense, timeline, and project overview.
Question and Answer table
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What comes with Windows 11 machines managed by Rice University OIT?
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Your Rice OIT standard machine will come with the Windows 11 Operating System, Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, and other software applications.
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What are the system requirements for Windows 11?
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Please review this website to learn more about system requirements: Windows 11 System Requirements. |
How do I know if my computer can be installed/upgraded to Windows 11?
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Please download and install the PC Health Check App to determine if your current computer supports Windows 11.
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How do I know if my Dell, HP, Lenovo, or Microsoft Surface devices support Windows 11?
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Please visit these vendor websites to see if your device can support Windows 11.
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| How can I get Windows 11 now? |
If you want to get Windows 11, please visit the How to Upgrade section for details of system requirements and next steps.
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My computer does not support Windows 11. What should I do?
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KB Hardware Support Life-cycle provides details on how to purchase a machine with Windows 11 before the October 15, 2025 deadline.
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What are the differences between Windows 10 and 11?
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The differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 are listed on this Microsoft website.
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Where can I buy Windows 11 for personal use?
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You can also purchase Windows 11 from any retail or online store.
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