The Windows 10 operating system reached the end of support on Oct. 14, 2025. Windows 11-eligible devices were upgraded to protect NC State’s systems and data. Devices that could not upgrade and had a valid exception were enrolled in Microsoft’s Extended Security Update (ESU) program.
You must either replace the device or submit an IT exception request and re-enroll in the ESU by Sept. 1, 2026. Please submit one request and attach a spreadsheet of all affected devices.
ESU-enrolled devices can continue to receive monthly security updates for up to three years. Licenses are available for a yearly fee. The first year ends Oct. 13, 2026.
OIT covered the cost for the first year only. Departments are responsible for the cost of ESU extensions. Licenses during the second year are $2 per device. More information about billing is coming soon.
Devices without an active ESU license will be placed in the penalty network. These devices will not be able to access university resources until they upgrade to Windows 11 or submit an IT exception request and re-enroll in the ESU.
Review the list of devices that have not upgraded to Windows 11. Departmental administrators may also review the readiness report in the Configuration Manager console by navigating to “Software Library>Windows 11 Upgrade Readiness.”
Windows 11 has minimum processor, memory and storage requirements. Additionally, the system firmware must be UEFI, SecureBoot and TPM v2.0 capable. See the specific requirements.
Users should contact their local IT for questions or concerns related to upgrading to Windows 11 on university-owned devices. If you are unsure who to contact, reach out to the NC State Help Desk by emailing help@ncsu.edu, calling 919-515-4357 (HELP) or via the NC State IT Service Portal. IT staff who need assistance should contact the Help Desk.