Upgrading to Windows 11 can bring enhanced security, performance, and a modern interface to your organization. Using Microsoft Intune, you can streamline this process across all your managed Windows devices. Follow this comprehensive guide to upgrade to Windows 11 with Intune.

Why Upgrade to Windows 11?

Windows 11 offers enhanced security features, a modernized user interface, and improved performance. Ensuring your devices meet the system requirements is essential for a smooth transition and optimal user experience.

Windows 11 System Requirements

Before diving into the identification process, let’s review the key system requirements for Windows 11:

  • Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor.
  • RAM: 4 GB or more.
  • Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device.
  • System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
  • TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
  • Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
  • Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p).
  • Internet Connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features.
  • Windows 10 version 2004 or higher

 

Creating the Windows 11 Deployment

Step 1: Access the Intune Portal

  1. Open your web browser and go to the Microsoft Intune Admin Center.
  2. Log in with your administrative credentials.

Step 2: Create a Feature Update Deployment

  1. In the left-hand menu, select Devices.
  2. Under Windows Update, click on Feature updates.
  3. Click Create profile.

Step 3: Configure the Feature Update Profile

  1. Enter a Name and Description for the profile.
  2. Under Feature update to deploy, select Windows 11.
  3. Configure any additional settings as needed.
  4. Click Next.
    Intune Feature Update

Step 4: Assign the Profile to Device Groups

  1. Under Assignments, select the device groups you want to upgrade to Windows 11.
  2. Click Next.
    Intune Feature Update

Step 5: Review and Create the Profile

  1. Review your settings to ensure everything is configured correctly.
  2. Click Create to deploy the feature update profile.
    Intune Feature Update

Step 6: Monitor the Deployment

  1. Go to Devices > Monitor > Feature updates for Windows 10 and later.
  2. Check the status of the deployment to ensure devices are upgrading successfully.

Step 7: Verify the Upgrade

  1. Once the upgrade is complete, verify that the devices are running Windows 11.
  2. You can do this by checking the Device compliance status in Intune.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Compatibility Issues: Ensure all devices meet the Windows 11 system requirements.
  • Deployment Failures: Check the Intune logs for any errors and resolve them accordingly.
  • User Communication: Inform users about the upgrade process and any expected downtime.

Conclusion

Upgrading to Windows 11 using Intune is a straightforward process that can be managed centrally. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11, enhancing the productivity and security of your organization.

 

Paul Cobben