We are happy to announce that Microsoft Windows 11 is now available for your Emerson-owned computer. Upgrading to Windows 11 ensures your computer will be compatible with the latest applications, be safeguarded with monthly security updates, and will contain all the newest features of Windows.
How to Upgrade
Over the next year, upgrades will be done through hardware refreshes and scheduling a time with the IT Help Desk. If your computer is scheduled to be replaced through the Staff & Faculty Computer Refresh program, you will be contacted by the IT Help Desk when your computer is ready to be replaced. If your computer has been replaced in the last four years, it can be upgraded to Windows 11. We ask that you perform a backup of your documents before scheduling a time with a technician to get upgraded. Please call the IT Help Desk @ 617-824-8080 or email us at helpdesk@emerson.edu to schedule your upgrade.
What’s the difference between Windows 11 and Windows 10?
The major difference between Windows 11 and Windows 10 is the look and feel. The revamped design of Windows 11 offers an interface with pastel colors and rounded corners for all application windows and a cleaner interface than its predecessor. Microsoft has simplified the user interface to create a clean space for work. But don’t worry, all of your software will still work as normal.
You will find on Windows 11 that the Start Menu is now located directly in the center of the taskbar, instead of the left-hand side in Windows 10 and earlier. Your pinned applications will now be directly shown front and center, with additional applications hidden to display a more clean-looking menu.
Windows 10
Windows 11
There is also a newly redesigned notification center which includes a quick settings menu. This gives you more control over turning certain settings or services on or off, similar to how you would on your mobile phone:
You now have more control of toggling items on and off. For example, on Windows 10 if you need to add a new device through Bluetooth, you are forced to go through multiple screens before you can add new devices. In the new Windows 11 quick settings menu, adding new devices or connecting to a device is seamlessly integrated into one menu and can be done directly through the taskbar without diving into other settings screens. This change will allow you to quickly get back to working on what matters most to you.
One of the most exciting new items being introduced with Windows 11 is our new Software Center, which is similar to what we offer in our Mac environment with Self-Service. With Software Center, you can now install approved applications we have added and configured to work in our environment. You will find common applications like Google Chrome and Slack, and you will also see Emerson-specific applications like our Global Protect VPN client. Over time, we plan to add more robust applications to streamline work from our end to yours. We plan on expanding the repository of supported applications in the Software Center in the future, so please be patient as we work towards a more robust and streamlined experience!
Want to learn more?
If you want to become more familiar with the differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, please check out Windows 10 vs 11 | Features & Changes
Don't hesitate to get in touch with the IT Help Desk at helpdesk@emerson.edu for any further assistance!