Upgrade to Windows 11 Using Software Center

Montana Tech requires all eligible computers to upgrade to Windows 11 by October 14, 2025. If you have a Lenovo computer purchased within the last 5 years, you can upgrade it yourself using Software Center. The upgrade will take a minimum of 2 hours, so please plan accordingly.

✅ Before You Begin

Check your version:

Check the version you have currently installed by pressing Windows key + R, type "winver", then Enter.

Check for at least 40GB of free space:

1.    Open File Explorer (click the folder icon on your taskbar or press Windows key + E).
2.    Click This PC in the left-hand menu.
3.    Look under Devices and drives to see available space. Your main drive is usually labeled C:.

4.    If you do not have at least 40GB of available space, then please try to clean up enough space to allow for this upgrade.
 

❌ If you are unable to free up enough space

If you are unable to free up at least 40GB of space, please submit a support ticket HERE.

🚀 Start the Upgrade
Open the Software Center

• Search for "Software Center" in the Start menu or Windows search bar.
• Launch the application.

❌ If Software Center is not listed 

If Software Center is not listed as an available application, please submit a support ticket HERE.

In Software Center:

• Click Operating Systems in the left-hand menu.

  
   
• Look for Windows 11 In-Place Upgrade.
  Note: If you don’t see the upgrade option, restart your computer and check again in Software Center.
   
• Click Install.
  
   
• Confirm that you want to upgrade by clicking Install again.
  
   

⏳ During the Upgrade

• Windows 11 will begin downloading.
  
   
• You can continue working while it downloads and prepares to install.
  
   
• Your computer will restart at least once during the process.
• When the upgrade reaches 100%, your computer will automatically restart with only a 30-second warning.
   

🕒 Best Practice

• Start the upgrade before leaving work to avoid interruptions!
• Save and close any open documents before you leave.

❌ If the Upgrade Fails

If the upgrade doesn’t work, please submit a support ticket HERE.

🧑‍💻 Other Computer Models

• Dell OptiPlex 7060: Can use Software Center for the upgrade.
• Dell 7040, 7050, and some Dell laptops: Require manual upgrade by Computer Support. Please submit a support ticket HERE.