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Overview
Windows 10 is reaching its end of life in October 2025, and starting in April 2025, you will have the ability to upgrade your NEOMED-issued device to Windows 11. To ensure a smooth transition, we recommend upgrading at your earliest convenience. Instructions will be sent to users who haven’t yet upgraded via NEOMED email (Subject: Action Required: Upgrade Your NEOMED Computer to Windows 11). Here are some helpful links and videos to better understand Windows 11.
Tips to Make the Most of Windows 11
Plan For Your Upgrade
We recommend you back up your files before you install Windows 11. To learn how, see Backup your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive.
Please allow approximately an hour for the Windows 11 upgrade. We recommend starting the process around 15 minutes before you leave work, so you’ll be ready to go the next day.
Moving the Start Menu
Prefer the classic left-aligned Start Menu? This can easily be moved back if desired.
- Press the Windows & I key to open Settings.
- Navigate to Personalization > Taskbar
- Under Taskbar behaviors, select Left from the menu.
Utilize the Snap Grid
Just like Windows 10, you can use ALT + Tab to toggle between Windows. However, you’ll notice the design is more compact with a streamlined modern look. Windows 11 introduces a new Snap Layout for additional multitasking.
To access quickly simply press the Windows + Z keys to choose the split screen layout you want to work in. Want to bring the window back to full size? Just maximize it again.
Alternatively, you can simply access the grid by placing your cursor over the maximize button at any point and then selecting the desired grid.
Managing Multiple Desktops
Just like in Windows 10, you can use the Alt + Tab feature to switch between windows. However, a redesigned compact look is delivered with Windows 11. Either select the task view icon from your taskbar, or press Windows key + Tab to open the Task View. New Desktops can be created, renamed and different wallpapers selected for each.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Like to learn more about keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11? Please refer to this article for more information..
Personalize Your Experience
For more information on you can personalize your experience in Windows 11, please refer to this Microsoft 11 article.
Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ is intended to answer questions about upgrading a Windows device to Windows 11 from previous versions of Windows such as Windows 10.
What happens to my files during the upgrade?
The default experience during a Windows 11 upgrade is that files and data are moved to the new Windows 11 installation. However, Microsoft always recommends backing up files before installing a new Windows version. If files are already synced to OneDrive, additional action to create a backup might not be necessary.
For more information on getting started with OneDrive, see Upload and save files and folders to OneDrive.
Will Windows 11 work with my current software and accessories?
Most software and accessories that worked with Windows 10 are expected to work with Windows 11. For specific product compatibility details with Windows 11, check with the software publisher or accessory manufacturer for more information.
How long does it take to upgrade to Windows 11?
The amount of time the Windows 11 upgrade takes varies. For example, the amount of time that it takes to download Windows 11 depends on internet speed. Downloading and installing Windows 11 usually takes longer than a typical Windows 10 feature update.
The Windows device can be used while Windows 11 is downloading. Once the download completes, there's an option to schedule the install to happen at a specific time, for example when the Windows device isn't being used.
Why do I see a "What needs your attention" message when I try to upgrade?
If the message What needs your attention is displayed while trying to upgrade a Windows device, the device might not meet the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. For more info, see Find Windows 11 specs, features, and computer requirements.
Why do I need to uninstall some apps during the upgrade?
Some apps are uninstalled because they're known to cause problems with the upgrade process. The apps can be reinstalled after the upgrade to Windows 11 is done.
Other apps are uninstalled because they're known not to work correctly with Windows 11 or might not work at all with Windows 11. Apps that are known not to work correctly with Windows 11 can't be reinstalled. Check with the app publisher to see if there's an updated version of the app that work with Windows 11.