Windows 10 Upgrades
Microsoft ended support of the Windows 7 operating system (OS) in 2020. To ensure that our customers have access to the latest security enhancements and best system performance, Illumina has built a Windows 10 upgrade solution for all active systems.
Affected Instruments
- MiniSeq, MiSeq, MiSeqDx, and NextSeq 500/550 Systems
New software packages built on the Windows 10 OS have been developed for these systems. See links below. - NovaSeq, NextSeq 550Dx, and iSeq Systems
These systems already use Windows 10 and do not need to transition. - HiSeq Systems
Microsoft Windows 7 extended security update (ESU) licenses are available. For instructions for your operating system, see ESU Prerequisites for Windows 7 Professional or ESU Prerequisites for Windows 7 Embedded. For instructions to check the operating system version, see the Microsoft article: Which version of Windows operating system am I running? - Infinium Tecan and iScan Systems
New software packages built on the Windows 10 OS have been developed for these systems. See links below. - cBot and cBot 2 Systems
Network connectivity is not required for operation, therefore, Extended Security Update (ESU) licenses will not be provided for cBot and cBot 2 systems.
Windows 10 Benefits
- Enhanced security reduces the risk of data being compromised.
- Performance is improved, compared to earlier Windows versions.
- Windows 10 has increased stability and will continue to receive support and security updates. For details, see the Illumina Security page.
About the Windows 10 Upgrade
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if my instrument is on Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Embedded?
In the Windows 7 operating system, go to Control Panel > All Control Panel Items > System. Windows edition will show as Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Embedded. - How do I get Extended Security Update (ESU) licenses?
Complete the prerequisites and then request an ESU license key. See ESU Prerequisites for Windows 7 Professional or ESU Prerequisites for Windows 7 Embedded. - Will my instrument be impacted if I stay on Windows 7?
While your instrument will continue to function normally, we encourage you to upgrade to Windows 10. Using an unsupported operating system increases the risk of exposure to malware. If your systems remain on Windows 7, you should take appropriate steps to minimize exposure. - Do I need to prepare for the Windows 10 upgrade?
We recommend that you inform your organization's IT team regarding the upgrade to ensure rapid connection back to your network. A pre-upgrade checklist will be provided when the upgrade is scheduled. - Who is responsible for upgrading the instrument?
When you are ready to upgrade your instrument, we will work with you to schedule a visit from an Illumina Field Service Engineer who will perform the upgrade. - Can I upgrade the instrument on my own?
To ensure the best possible experience, the upgrade requires a visit from an Illumina Field Service Engineer. - What is the cost to upgrade my instrument under a service contract?
There is no cost to upgrade instruments under a service contract. Exclusions apply to instruments requiring a PC or server upgrade. - What is the cost to upgrade my instrument without a service contract?
There is a fee for the upgrade (varies per instrument).