Windows 10 upgrade
To remain compliant with IT security standards at Concordia University, faculty and staff members currently working on Concordia issued PC devices will be required to upgrade to Windows 10 to ensure continued support from Microsoft. Microsoft has announced that with the release of Windows 10, Windows 7 systems will begin to no longer be supported with security updates and bug/feature patches.
Recent versions of Windows have important improved security, performance, and usability options that older versions do not. Your older operating system may get security updates, but does not improve with age. Only newer versions get all the benefits of improved management, reliability, and security technology.
This Concordia upgrade is only for computers running Windows 7. To learn how to identify your Operating System, consult the FAQ.
Windows 10: Features and Improvements
- A new, simpler, visual design that is user friendly and easy to use.
- Faster computer switch on and login times. Windows 10 will allow you to switch on your computer and log in faster, getting your day started with less delay.
- The new operating system has numerous embedded and built-in security features that will make Concordia’s computing environment even more secure.
Please note: My Documentum Desktop (MDD) has known compatibility issues with Windows 10. For this reason, we have temporarily excluded all PCs with MDD from this upgrade. The in-place upgrade will not be available in your Software Center.
Before you begin your upgrade from Windows 7
- Ensure you regularly backup your documents. Validate your backups before performing the system upgrade. IITS recommends backing up your files to your Home Drive.
- To avoid disruptions to your work, it is recommended to run the upgrade prior to leaving for the day as it will interrupt your computer for up to 2 hours. When you return in the morning your computer will be running Windows 10.
- Save and close any open files before you begin the installation.
- Do not shut down your computer before you leave for the day; shutting down will prevent the upgrade from starting or will interrupt the process if already begun.
Upgrade to Windows 10
- If your computer is eligible, the upgrade is available in your Software Centre.
If the in-place upgrade is not available in your Software Centre or you do not have Software Centre installed, you may opt-in by clicking the button below.
- You will be required to provide your computer name. (You can find your computer name by right-clicking the ‘My Computer’ icon and selecting 'Properties')
- Jot down the computer name listed on the properties screen.
FAQ
If your computer is supported by the IT Service Desk, please Opt in: Opt me in for the Windows 10 upgrade and include your computer name in the request. You can attain your computer name by finding the ‘my computer’ icon, right click, then go to properties, and jot down the computer name.
Please contact your IT support team and they can guide you through the upgrade process.
Microsoft has a series of short videos that explain new features and how to use them. Get Started with Windows 10.
A vast majority of software is compatible with the Windows 10 operating system however, some software will need to be tested. If you are unsure if a certain software application will be compatible, please reach out to the IT Service Desk . Concordia's IT department is dedicated to work with you to find a solution.
If you encounter an issue, please email help@concordia.ca with the subject WIN10 upgrade in the subject field. The issue will be routed to the Windows 10 support team for investigation.
How do I change my default browser settings?
Windows 10 will automatically set your default browser to Microsoft's new Edge browser. You can leave it as is, or you set your own personal preference.
To choose your own default browser:
- Click the Start button on your desktop
- Click 'Settings'
- Click the 'Apps' option
- Choose 'Default Apps'
- Scroll down and Click on 'Microsoft Edge' under the 'Web browser' heading and select your preferred browser
How do I change the settings for my preferred PDF reader?
By default, Windows 10 will set your PDF viewer to Microsoft's new Edge browser. To change it to your preferred option, follow the steps below:
- Find a PDF file on your computer
- Right click on the PDF and select 'Open with..'. Even if you see the software you want to use on this list, don't click it. Instead, select 'Choose another app'.
- Select the app of your choice and ensure you click the checkbox next to "Always use this app to open PDF files."
Once Windows 10 has been made available through your Software Center, follow these steps to complete the installation:
- Open Software Center by clicking on the Windows start menu at the bottom left of your screen. Search for Software Center in the search box provided and select 'Software Center' to launch the program.
- Once the Software Center opens, select 'Operating Systems' from the left menu.
- Select 'Win10 In-Place Upgrade'.
- Click the 'Install' button.
- When the confirmation window opens, select 'Install' a second time.
Best practices:
It's a good idea to save and close any open files before beginning the installation. The installation will require that you restart your computer and saving your work will prevent data loss.
If you begin the installation before going home for the day, do not shut down your computer. Shutting down your machine will prevent the upgrade from starting or interrupt the process if it has already begun.
