GW Managed Devices
Windows Update Cycle Underway
GW IT is currently performing essential security and software maintenance on all university computers as part of our 2026 Annual Windows Update cycle. These updates are critical to ensuring our managed devices remain secure, compliant, and fully supported.
Get Started
- Order a computer for a new hire or for an employee who is eligible for a refresh upgrade.
- Check refresh eligibility
- Initial Setup: Once you receive your device, sign in with your GW UserID and password. Your new computer will be ready to use with a standard configuration and additional tools, and software can be added as needed.
What is a Managed Device?
GW Managed Devices provide standardized computing hardware for faculty, staff, and shared environments such as classrooms and labs. By utilizing a managed environment, the university ensures that your workstation remains secure, compliant with university data policies, and equipped with the latest software tools to support teaching, learning, and research.
A GW Managed Machine is a university‑owned computer that:
- Receives automatic security and operating system updates
- Uses a standardized configuration for reliability and support
- Maintains access to GW systems, software, and services
- Stays current with supported hardware and operating systems
Computer Standards & Guidelines
- Faculty and Staff Workstation Initiative Guidelines: These guidelines outline the eligibility requirements, refresh cycles, and procurement processes that govern the distribution of managed devices across the university.
- Computer Standards: This resource details the specific, university-approved hardware configurations and system requirements designed to ensure your managed device remains compatible with GW’s security and performance infrastructure.
Annual Updates Cycle
To ensure security and access to the newest technology, GW Managed Devices follow a structured update schedule aligned with the academic calendar.
Note: The current cycle may reflect slight adjustments as we standardize our update schedule.
Annual Updates Cycle | ||
|---|---|---|
Term | Phase | Description |
| Fall (Oct - Nov) | OS Release & Evaluation | New OS versions are released by Apple and Microsoft; IT begins initial compatibility reviews |
| Winter (Oct–Feb) | Testing & Validation | Technical teams test the new OS against GW systems and academic software during the winter break. |
| Spring (Feb–May) | Deployment Kickoff | New OS versions become default for new and refreshed devices, and are made available for existing devices for self-service upgrades. Automated upgrades are deployed to assigned staff and faculty workstations starting in March. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Shared Device Refresh | Critical updates and OS upgrades are applied to shared classrooms and computer labs to prepare for the new academic year. |
| Fall (by October) | Full Compliance | Goal: All managed devices reach the current version standard to ensure university-wide security |
All managed devices must have the current year’s updates fully installed by October. Devices that are not compliant by the end of the Fall cycle may lose access to certain GW systems until updates are applied.
Supported Operating Systems & Software Versions
Mac
Managed macOS devices should be running the latest IT-approved major macOS version or the two most recent previous major macOS versions. Major versions of macOS are released once a year and are typically maintained by Apple for three (3) years. Minor updates should be applied regularly.
PC
Managed Windows devices should be running the latest IT approved Windows Enterprise version or one that is still supported by Microsoft. Major versions of Windows Enterprise are released once a year and are typically maintained by Microsoft for (3) years. Monthly updates should be applied regularly.
Devices that fall outside supported operating system versions may lose access to GW systems or security updates, unless exemptions apply or compatibility issues prevent updates.
Resources
2026 Windows Annual Updates
- Annual Windows Updates
- Windows 11 - Update to 25H2 using Software Center
- Upgrade to Microsoft Office LTSC 2024 on Windows
- Microsoft Access and Outlook (Classic) LTSC Installation
Support
Available to
- Faculty
- Staff
- Researchers
- Affiliates (upon departmental approval)
