Microsoft has announced the end of extended support for Windows 7. As a result, after January 14, 2020, Microsoft will no longer release security patches for Windows 7; all DePaul-owned computers must be upgraded before this date. Computers still running Windows 7 after this date will not be allowed on the DePaul network.
To prepare for this, Information Services offers DePaul users the ability to upgrade their Windows 7 computers to Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 10. New computers will have Windows 10 installed by default. The University’s Windows 10 experience includes Office Professional Plus 2016.
What are the requirements to perform the upgrade?
- A Windows 10-compatible device
- A “wired” (Ethernet) connection to the DePaul network
- Uninstallation of the DePaul VPN client and any Office Click-to-run applications, if applicable
What are the benefits of upgrading to Windows 10?
Windows 10 offers several improvements over Windows 7, some of which are listed below. Most importantly, only Windows 10 will receive Microsoft's latest content releases; as of January 13th, 2015, Windows 7 only receives security updates, which do not include new features.
DePaul's Windows 10 experience also includes Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2016, which provides the latest versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and other Office applications.
Is upgrading to Windows 10 mandatory?
No, but we encourage the University community to consider upgrading as soon as possible.
Will my data be preserved during the upgrade process?
The Upgrade Wizard's design incorporates methods for retaining data stored on your computer's hard drive. As an additional layer of protection against hardware failures, the Wizard requires you to confirm that you have manually backed up your data to a secure storage location, such as the University's U: drive or Box. You do not need to take any action for data presently stored on the University's U: drive or Box.
Will my applications change during the upgrade process?
Most modern applications are compatible with Windows 10; you can find more information on specific applications by searching for them on Microsoft's compatibility website. Certain applications, like Office and the McAfee VirusScan client, will be updated during the upgrade. If you have the DePaul VPN client installed, it will need to be removed before the upgrade and installed again after the upgrade is complete.
Will my Office add-ins be preserved during the upgrade process?
Except for standard add-ins like McAfee E-mail Scan, Office add-ins will need to be reinstalled after the upgrade process.
Will all my current applications and devices (e.g. webcam) work on Windows 10?
Current Windows 7-compatible software and devices may not have support for Windows 10. Completing a pre-upgrade compatibility assessment is vital to a seamless upgrade process. Please visit the Windows 10 requirements webpage, in conjunction with the support pages for software and devices you use, to determine whether any compatibility issues exist with your current computing environment.
Which devices are compatible with Windows 10?
How do I upgrade?
- Launch Software Center, or search for it in the Start Menu.
- Under “Operating Systems,” click on “DePaul Upgrade to Windows 10.”
- When ready, click "Install" and wait for the upgrade wizard to appear.
- Follow the Upgrade Wizard prompts.
After the upgrade process completes, you will receive either a "success" or "failure" message upon your next login to the computer. Should you receive the latter, please contact the TSC for assistance.