Windows 10 resources for staff with new computers

Online resources and training are now available for staff receiving Windows 10 computers. Most new computers will now come with Windows 10, Office 2016 and OneDrive already installed plus access to Office 365 online services. 

The next group of staff who will have the opportunity to upgrade to Windows 10 with Office 2016 and OneDrive will be those with compatible Windows computers less than 2 years old—this will happen in early 2017.

Office 365 online services

Currently, Office 365 online services is intended for staff with new Windows 10 computers only. 

Reminder: Check that software works on Windows 10 before ordering a new computer

Not all software or software versions will work on Windows 10.

ITS has published a list of software tested on Windows 10 by ITS or other subject matter experts. It is important for staff to check this list before ordering a new computer to ensure that any software they will need is compatible with Windows 10. 

Staff can ask for access to a Windows 10 computer to test any unlisted software by contacting the ITS Service Desk.

Windows 7 support and backwards compatibility will end—get help with planning future hardware requirements

Microsoft will cease to support Windows 7 from 14 January 2020 and eventually new hardware will not have backwards compatibility with Windows 7. This may have compatibility implications for hardware connected to computers running Windows 7.

Hardware compatibility issues are often complex. Departments using a Windows 7 computer for data acquisition, or as a controller, or for operating specialised equipment, or in any other situation where hardware compatibility is critical, can work with ITS and their own campus support to start planning future hardware requirements.