Windows 10 Version 21H2 Update

Microsoft has recently released Windows 10 version 21H2 and all clients on the central domain will be able to install this upgrade. This update will install automatically at 1 pm or 10 pm on Thursday, May 19.

Computers running Windows 10 version 2004 and higher: The update will install through Windows Update at 1 pm and you will have to manually restart after it installs.

Computers running Windows 10 version 1909 and lower: The update will install through the Software Center at 10 pm and your computer will restart automatically.

Find out which version of Windows you have.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need help?

If you have any questions or concerns about the upcoming Windows update, please contact us at ist@ualberta.ca or by calling 780-492-9400.

Will this update delete our current computer data?

This is only an update to your current operating system and therefore will not affect or delete your saved data or installed software.

My computer is not part of the Central Domain. How do I upgrade it to Windows 10 version 21H2?

Computers which are not joined to the Central Domain should be updated to the latest version of Windows 10. If the Windows 10 21H2 Enablement Package is not available in Windows Update it can be done manually using the Windows Update Assistant. Please contact the IT Service Desk at ist@ualberta.ca or 780-492-9400 if you require assistance.

My computer currently has Windows 7, Windows 8, a version of Windows 10 earlier than version 2004 or another operating system version. How can I update to Windows 10?

Please contact the IT Service Desk at ist@ualberta.ca or 780-492-9400.

Doesn't IST already back up my computer?

IST backs up your departmental shared drives and your home drive (usually called P drive). Data saved elsewhere, such as on your Desktop or browser bookmarks may not be backed up.

How do I know if my computer is part of the Central Domain?

Please see KB0012891 to learn how to find out.

How long will this update take to install?

The update should install quite quickly but could take an hour or more to install on some computers.

Does my University owned computer at home or in my office on campus have to be turned on for this to work?

Yes. Any computer that you wish to receive and install updates must be turned on and not hibernating or sleeping for this to work.

Do I need to be logged on to my University owned computer at home or in my office on campus for this to work?

Yes. You need to be logged on for this to work.

What about other updates which we have not installed as we have not been in our offices since the pandemic started?

Computers are still updating. If you are missing updates please run Windows Update a few times to catch up. Contact the IT Service Desk at ist@ualberta.ca or 780-492-9400 if you are having problems.

How can I tell if the update was successful?

You can tell if the update was successful by checking the version of Windows your computer is running.