IT Services: All U of A Departments Required to Upgrade to Windows 11

In an effort to adhere to cybersecurity requirements and mitigate risks, IT Services is working with departments at the University of Arkansas to upgrade all devices to Windows 11.

Windows 10 will no longer be supported after Oct. 14, 2025, as it has been discontinued by the manufacturer and will no longer receive critical updates and security patches.

The U of A relies on updated and actively supported systems. Unsupported systems like Windows 10 erode the university's cybersecurity posture and open the university to potential risk.

The upgrade to Windows 11 will be automatic to university devices, and users may notice it takes longer than usual after rebooting to complete the upgrade. This upgrade, along with following regular security and feature updates, provides built-in cyber protection.

October is also National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the U of A is hosting several events this month to encourage and boost cybersecurity efforts across campus.

 National Cybersecurity Awareness Month started in 2004, with 2025 being its 22nd year. Cybersecurity is a fundamental part of the U of A's commitment to protecting the academic and personal integrity of its students, faculty and staff.

If you have questions about upgrading to Windows 11, contact Project Manager Janelle Humphries at janelleh@uark.edu.