Microsoft has announced that it will cease support for Windows 11 SE after 2026, impacting devices used in K-8 classrooms. This specialized educational platform, launched in 2021 as a secure option for younger students, is set to lose its support, prompting schools to migrate to other solutions.
Timeline and Support Details
Support for Windows 11 SE will officially end after version 24H2, with full support, including security updates, terminating on 2026-10-13. The platform was designed to control app installations to maintain a secure environment, drawing comparisons to Chromebooks.
- Windows 11 SE launched in 2021 for education.
- Support ends after version 24H2 in 2026.
- Security updates stop on 2026-10-13.
The Surface Laptop SE, priced around $249, was introduced alongside this operating system, in partnership with vendors like Dell and HP, to provide cost-effective hardware solutions for schools.
Impact on Schools and Future Options
With the end of support approaching, schools using Windows 11 SE face potential privacy and security vulnerabilities due to halted updates. Microsoft advises transitioning to devices compatible with Windows 11. This pivot could place financial strain on educational institutions needing hardware upgrades or replacements.
The announcement is part of Microsoft's broader 2026 retirement plan, which also includes the end of Office 2021 support.
This shift emphasizes the importance of ongoing adaptability in educational technology as schools aim to maintain secure and up-to-date digital environments.
