University to block network access for remaining Windows 7 devices
16 Feb 2022
Windows 7 desktop computers (PCs), laptops, laboratory, and shared devices, that do not have formal approval and additional measures applied by IT Services, expose the University to increased cyber risk.
For this reason, all remaining Windows 7 devices will have network access blocked from Wednesday 23 February 2022, unless an upgrade or exception has been requested.
This action follows the recent intensive programme to upgrade remaining Windows 7 devices to Windows 10. This involved multiple communications being sent to hundreds of Windows 7 device owners, alongside broadcast communications.
Following the disconnection, colleagues are reminded not to take any action to reconnect Windows 7 devices to any external networks, and that Windows 7 devices are now out of support.
Devices will not be subject to the above measures if a requested Windows 10 upgrade is pending, or IT Services have agreed by exception that the device can retain Windows 7. In which case, additional security measures will need to be in place to ensure it can be used securely.
Colleagues can request a Windows 10 upgrade and find out more information by signing into the IT Support Portal, searching the knowledge base using the search term, ‘Windows 10 upgrade’, and then selecting 'Windows 10: Upgrade your University computer to Windows 10'.