Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025.

What does this mean?

This means that devices running Windows 10 after October 14 will no longer receive crucial security updates, increasing their vulnerability to cyber threats. If you use a device that is running Windows 10 you will need to take action before the deadline to maintain optimal security and comply with University of California security mandates.

What steps do I need to take?

Step 1: Determine whether or not your device is running Windows 10.

To check if a device is running Windows 10 or an older operating system, go to the Start menu, then select Settings > System > About. This will display the current version of Windows running on your device.

Step 2: Determine whether or not your device is managed by either ITS or your local IT department.

The Secured Device Services (SDS) webpage contains helpful information about the difference between devices managed via ITS SDS, devices managed by local IT departments, and devices that are self-managed. If you are unsure whether your device is managed, please contact your department's IT support or ITS BearHelp at 951-827-4848.

• If your device is managed by SDS, ITS will contact you directly with guidance on the Windows 11 upgrade process. You do not need to complete any additional steps at this time.  
• If your device is managed by your local IT department, please contact them directly to request Windows 11 upgrade support and guidance. You do not need to complete any additional steps at this time.   
• If you self-manage your device, please continue to Step 3.

Step 3: Determine whether or not your device has a Trusted Platform Model (TPM) 2.0 chip.

Windows 11 requires a TPM 2.0 chip by default for improved security, which means your device must have this chip in order to support the upgrade to Windows 11.

To check if a computer has TPM 2.0, go to the Start menu, then select Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Device Security. Look for the “security processor” section to find your device’s TPM specification version.

Step 4: Update your device.

If your device has TPM 2.0, please follow Microsoft’s guidance on how to install Windows 11.

If your device does not have TPM 2.0, you will need to purchase a new device. You are encouraged to review UCR’s Campus Device Standards to take advantage of competitively negotiated rates on enterprise devices.

For those not able to upgrade to Windows 11 before the October 14 deadline, Microsoft will offer an Extended Security Updates (ESU) subscription, which can be purchased by departments or by individuals who own their devices. While the ESU subscription can be purchased for up to three years of coverage, UCR will only accept the use of the extended support from Microsoft for 12 months due to security compliance requirements.

Resources for department administrators 

If your department’s devices are managed by ITS through the SDS program, please email sds@ucr.edu to schedule a consultation to review your device inventory, age of equipment, and compatibility with Windows 11. If your department is not part of the SDS program, please submit a ticket with IT Asset Management and select “Quote” as the request type to schedule a consultation.

We recognize that some departments may need to replace many machines as a result of Microsoft discontinuing this support. Please note that Lenovo offers various leasing and purchase models to help in this situation.  

If you have any questions or concerns about the upgrade process, please contact ITS BearHelp at 951-827-4848.