Does your computer run on Windows 10 or an older version of Windows 11? You may have to upgrade your operating system

February 24, 2025

Microsoft is ending support for the Windows 10 operating system (OS) on October 14, 2025, at which point they will no longer provide security fixes, technical assistance, or software updates. ITS must ensure that all Windows computers run on a supported version of Windows 11 OS (version 23H2) so that they stay current with Microsoft support and security, and don’t pose a security risk to the WCM network.   

Why is it important to have a supported operating system?

A supported operating system receives crucial security fixes and software updates. An unsupported operating system presents a serious security threat to Weill Cornell Medicine systems and data and is at the heart of most reportable breaches. 

In accordance with WCM ITS Security policy 11.10 Device Minimum Security Requirements and 11.11 Requirements for Securing Systems, all Windows devices must be running Windows 11 version 23H2 as of October 14, 2025.  Non-compliance with this policy will result in device quarantine and removal from WCM network resources.

What do you need to do?

If you’re running Windows 10 or an older version of Windows 11, you need to upgrade your operating system to Win 11 v 23H2.

 ITS has identified computers that need to upgrade, and if you are listed as the owner or user of one of these machines, you will receive an email with instructions on how to upgrade. We encourage you upgrade on your own prior to March 31st. Ensure that your data is backed up/synced to OneDrive before you install the upgrade, or ITS pushes the upgrade.

 If you don’t upgrade on your own, ITS will be pushing the upgrade to all required machines beginning March 31st on a rolling basis.  

Need help? Get in touch with ITS: 

Email Windows11@med.cornell.edu  
Go to  myHelpdesk  for chat support or to open a ticket  
Email  support@med.cornell.edu 
Call (212) 746-4878

Ready to upgrade to Windows 11 v 23H2?

Here’s how you do it:

Back up your computer!  ITS recommends you back up to OneDrive to ensure your data is not lost in the process of upgrading.  

Microsoft OneDrive  lets you store up to 5TB, share, and collaborate on files with WCM colleagues in the cloud.  OneDrive  is the preferred method for storing WCM high-risk data, like PHI and PII.  

For help with OneDrive, read this guide: How to Start Using OneDrive on a PC 
 Restart your computer.
Install the upgrade.  The Windows 11 upgrade package is currently available on the WCM App Store for computers that meet the requirements. You can install it yourself at any time.

For help with installation, read this  guide:  HowTo: Download Windows 11 from the WCM App Store 

Helpful tips:   

For best results, install the upgrade while connected to a high-speed internet connection and a power source.

The upgrade may take up to 3 hours depending on the age of your computer and available memory.

You won’t be able to use your computer during the upgrade, so please plan accordingly.

Windows 11 upgrade icon

Windows 11 upgrade icon in the WCM App Store 

What’s new with Windows 11?

For more information about navigating Windows 11, take a look at this Microsoft article: More is possible with Windows 11
Watch this video: New features in Windows 11

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the Windows 11 upgrade not showing up in the WCM App Store?  

If your PC was off the network for an extended duration (e.g. weekend, vacation), it may take some time for the upgrade to appear. If you don’t see the icon or “Get” button, check again a few hours later, and restart your machine. If you’re still having issues, reach out to ITS Support. If you do not meet the qualifications for the upgrade the Windows 11 icon will not be visible.   

2. My computer or device cannot or should not be upgraded at this time. Can I postpone? 

If you have questions or concerns about upgrading your computer, please contact Windows11@med.cornell.edu.   