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How to Update Windows to the Latest Version - Knowledgebase / Windows - SOU IT Help Desk

How to Update Windows to the Latest Version

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This article will show you how to safely update your version of Windows 11 to the latest version from Microsoft.

 

Note
  • The IT Department restricts Windows updates coming through our system in order to give us time to thoroughly test Microsoft’s substantial updates before rolling them out to campus.

  • Also, if you did not come to this article because your Computing Coordinator asked you to install the latest Windows 11 version, then please check with your Computing Coordinator before proceeding.

  • If you want to verify that the update completed, you can note your version of Windows 10 before the update and then check it again after the update.

Warning
  • Although this upgrade process is non-destructive to your data, it may significantly change Windows or break the functionality of certain programs.

  • We strongly recommend that you back up your local data(<-- click for instructions) and back up your web browser bookmarks(<-- click for instructions) before proceeding! We have never seen this upgrade erase data for people, but you can never be too safe.

  • The update process can take upwards of one hour. You can continue to work while the update installs for part of the process, but please avoid working in documents that need to be saved because you will not receive much of a warning before the computer reboots.

 

 

How to Update through Software Center

 

Follow these instructions if and only if you are using a SOU-issued Windows computer while on the SOU campus.

Step 1 - Launch Software Center

Follow the instructions in our KB article on Software Center.

Step 2 - Find and Install the OS Update

Click on Operating Systems in the side bar menu on the left side of the Software Center window, then select the Win11 Upgrade item in the apps list. It should be the only item there.

Picture of the software center menu window with the operating systems highlighted on the side menu bar and the Win11 Upgrade package also highlighted.

Step 3 - Installation

Click the Install button to start the installation, then verify one more time that you wish to start the installation. Once you start, you cannot cancel.

Picture of the dialogue box after selecting the Win 11 Upgrade option with the install and cancel options in the bottom right of the window

You should see a progress window as the update installs. It can take upwards of 45 minutes for this window to go away, then your computer will reboot several times to finish the upgrade, which can take another 15 minutes or longer.

When the update is finished, sign in to Windows again as you usually would.

 

How to Update through your Computer

 

The most up to date instructions can be found by following this link.

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