UNMC and Nebraska Medicine Information Technology are embarking on a significant upgrade, rolling out Windows 11 across all compatible workstations over the coming months. This transition will occur in phases, allowing for a seamless experience for all users.
Details of the Upgrade
Windows 11 retains a familiar interface, closely resembling Windows 10, with one notable alteration: the menu bar has been repositioned to the center of the screen’s bottom edge, enhancing accessibility and aesthetics.
While most applications are expected to function without issues, the IT department has identified a select few that currently lack compatibility with the new operating system. To mitigate any disruptions, IT has proactively blocked Windows 11 from devices running these incompatible applications, with plans to expand this list as further incompatibilities are discovered during the rollout. Application owners are already engaged in discussions to ensure their systems are upgraded in line with the new requirements.
Upon completion of the upgrade, users will need to reboot their devices. A prompt will appear, allowing a three-day window for this action. Users should be aware that the reboot process may take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes before they can access the login screen again.
For any issues encountered with specific applications, users are encouraged to submit a support ticket by calling 402-559-7700 or by visiting the designated support link. The IT teams are prepared to assist, gather necessary information, and resolve any challenges that arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are you deploying Windows 11?
A: This upgrade aligns with Microsoft’s end-of-life policy for Windows 10, which is set for October 2025. Although there is an option to receive paid security patches for a limited time post-deadline, full support will ultimately be discontinued.
Q: Why hasn’t my device received Windows 11 yet?
A: Several factors could contribute to this delay:
- The device has not yet entered a deployment wave.
- An application has been flagged as incompatible with Windows 11.
- The device is older than the specifications required by Windows 11.
Q: What if my device is too old?
A: Depending on your organization:
- Nebraska Medicine is prioritizing funding and replacements for devices that are incompatible with Windows 11. Workstation teams will reach out to schedule replacements as needed.
- UNMC leadership is collaborating with IT leadership to identify devices across departments that require replacement and to develop a funding strategy for these upgrades.
Q: What happens if my device doesn’t have Windows 11 before October 2025?
A: IT has secured licensing to continue applying security patches to these devices for a period beyond the end-of-life date. Concurrently, efforts are underway to expedite the replacement of devices as resources permit.
Q: What applications are known to be incompatible with Windows 11?
A: As of November 1, the following applications are currently listed as incompatible, though this list may evolve as updates are made or new issues are identified:
- ISCV/XPER
- Sunquest
- CoPath
- Muse v9
- Bartender
- DoseEdge IV cart with Tangent workstations
- Vyne Dental/Vyne Trellis
- Daily QA v2.5.4 (Sun Nuclear)
- Aria v18 (Varian)
- Cytovision (v7.7)
