Why are we upgrading ECU-managed Windows computers to Windows 11?
When will my computer be upgraded to Windows 11?
Will I receive a new computer?
If I do receive a new computer, will I be able to keep my Windows 10 computer as well?
Should I upgrade my personal Windows 10 computer?
When will classroom computers be upgraded?
What is Windows Hello for Business (WHfB)?
Is WHfB like MFA?
Will I still need my password?
Does my Outlook change? What about Teams or Webex?
How does Windows 11 work with the Edge browser and Microsoft 365?
I am not able to download apps or make changes to some settings. Why is this?
What is the Company Portal?
How will I receive updates for Company Portal apps?
What is Copilot?
Why are we upgrading ECU-managed Windows computers to Windows 11?
Microsoft's Windows 11 is the most secure operating system to date. ECU processes and stores many types of sensitive information, and we are now able to take advantage of Windows 11 built-in security features to help you better protect the data for which you are responsible.
For example, Windows Hello for Business (WHfB) is a device-based login to your computer and SSO resources. No passwords are sent over the network. Windows Security has a more robust antivirus tool (Defender) plus updated firewall, network and account protections.
Microsoft has also announced there will be no more support (think security updates) for Windows 10 beginning October 2025. We see this as the opportune time to modernize ECU-managed Windows computers as well as how we oversee the network.
See this IT Knowledge Base article for more information on protecting sensitive data.
When will my computer be upgraded to Windows 11?
This project runs May through October 2025. You will be notified in advance through an email announcement when technicians will be in your area. In the meantime, you can learn about this project by visiting the Windows 11 Project website. You will see a list of online articles describing how you need to prepare for the upgrade.
If you require assistance in creating your file backup or have questions, contact your department's IT techs, call the IT Service Desk at 252-328-9866 or visit your nearest walk-in Pirate Techs location.
Will I receive a new computer?
Computers included in the Computer Replacement Program that are at least 5 years old will be replaced. Other computers that cannot be upgraded because of hardware will also be replaced. If you current computer is less than 5 years old and the hardware supports Windows 11, it will be upgraded.
If I do receive a new computer, will I be able to keep my Windows 10 computer as well?
According to the Computer Replacement Program, ECU provides faculty and non-faculty staff with one (1) primary computer replacement for devices that are five (5) years old or older.
For an employee to receive a computer from the replacement/retirement program, the current primary computer must be returned to the technician setting up the replacement computer.
Should I upgrade my personal Windows 10 computer?
The computer will still work after October, but Microsoft will no longer support or provide security updates for the Windows 10 operating system after October 2025.
When will classroom computers be upgraded?
Classroom computers will be running the Windows 11 operating system by the start of Fall Semester 2025.
What is Windows Hello for Business (WHfB)?
Depending on your system hardware and your preference, WHfB allows you to log in to the Windows 11 system using facial recognition or a 6-digit PIN. Once you sign in to your computer using WHfB, you are also signed in to any Single Sign-On resources for which you have access. WHfB is device specific and the login only works for this one device.
Is WHfB like MFA?
WHfB is a passwordless login to your ECU-managed Windows 11 computer. It works similarly to MFA by providing security layers but is more convenient as it allows you to access Single Sign-On sources without a username and password. WHfB is a device-based form of authentication (can only be used on your computer) and is more secure as credentials are not sent over a network.
Will I still need my ECU password?
You are still required to set up an ECU password, and it becomes a backup method to authenticate. Also, you will still need to use your ECU password to log in to non-SSO resources.
Does my Outlook change? What about Teams or Webex?
No, you will still be able to access the same services and platforms. Note that Microsoft 365 Office is now on a 6-month update schedule.
How does the Edge browser work with Windows 11 and Microsoft 365?
The Edge browser has been optimized to help you be more productive. For example, once you log in to your computer using WHfB, open Edge to access your Microsoft 365 apps like mymail, Teams, OneDrive and more. Set up widget shortcuts and website links for faster access, open Copilot AI and customize quick access for your most-used links in the right margin.
I am not able to download apps or change some settings. Why is this?
ECU-managed Windows 11 computers do not inherently get admin rights. This is a security measure to protect your account from unwanted changes and potential security threats.
What is the Company Portal?
This is ECU's own app store where you download software.
How will I receive updates for my Company Portal apps?
When an app update is available, you see a pop-up window on the desktop alerting you. You may immediately update the app, schedule or snooze the update up to three times.
What is Copilot?
Copilot is Window 11's AI assistant is integrated into Microsoft 365 applications, the Edge browser and is available in your Start menu.