Windows 7 will be end-of-life January 2020. By that time, all Community Network computers running Windows 7 will need to be upgraded or replaced.

The below email notice will be sent to department contacts on 10/16/2018 regarding computers that are too old to run Windows 10 and need to be replaced.

If customers call or write in asking about this project, please create a ticket assigned to Chris Sinnett.

• KB Article: CN – Windows 7 Computer Replacement

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To: CN Department contacts
From: Chris Sinnett
Date: 10/16/2018
Subject: Windows 7 Computer Replacement – Department Name

Hi <Name>,

All OSU computers running Windows 7 must be replaced or upgraded to the current release of Windows 10 before Microsoft ends support in January 2020.

The following computers cannot run the latest version of Windows 10 and must be replaced by November 2019.

Computer	User	Model	S/N
<computer1>	<user1>	<model1>	<serial1>
<computer2>	<user2>	<model2>	<serial2>

 

Why must we replace these computers?

Microsoft will no longer provide security updates for Windows 7 after support ends in January 2020.  At that point the University’s Baseline Standards of Care prohibit us from allowing Windows 7 computers to connect to the network.  Computers that cannot run Windows 10 must be replaced or disconnected from the network.

—–Cut & paste link below into a web browser to review Baseline Standards of Care—-https://is.oregonstate.edu/ois/baseline-standards-care

Why must they be replaced by November 2019?

Community Network has identified over 500 Windows 7 computers that need to be replaced and nearly 1,100 that need to be upgraded.  We have set the November 2019 cut off date to ensure that we complete all replacements and upgrades well in advance of Microsoft’s deadline.

What about computers that just need an upgrade?

We will send a separate email with a list of departmental computers to be upgraded.  We’re currently developing a process that should allow us to upgrade most computers in-place.  Once we’ve completed our testing we’ll share that list of computers and start scheduling Windows 10 upgrades.

What about computer rebuilds?

Effective immediately, all computers sent to Community Network (CN) for a rebuild will be evaluated for Windows 10 compatibility.  Computers that can be upgraded will be rebuilt and returned to you with Windows 10 installed.

What if we can’t afford to replace all of our computers this fiscal year?

We realize that this issue may present a financial burden to some units, which is why we’re notifying you now, so you can spread your purchases across two fiscal years.  We also recommend that you contact us to discuss moving toward an ongoing 3-5 year replacement cycle.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.  Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Regards,
Chris

Chris Sinnett
Mgr-Information Technology, Client Services
Information Services | Oregon State University
541-737-9156