Windows Autopilot: Configure New Computer with Bowdoin Software and Settings

Questions

  • My new Windows computer is asking me to "Sign into Microsoft" before I can log in — what do I do?
  • How do I set up a new Bowdoin Windows computer using Autopilot?
  • What is Windows Autopilot and how does it work at Bowdoin?
  • My new laptop is stuck on a Microsoft sign-in screen — how do I get past it?
  • How do I configure a new Windows computer with Bowdoin software automatically?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin faculty and staff setting up a new Windows 11 computer that displays a "Sign into Microsoft" prompt when first powered on. This prompt appears before the standard Windows login screen and indicates the computer is ready for Autopilot configuration.

  • Who: Faculty and staff receiving a new Bowdoin Windows computer
  • What: Windows 11 computers configured via Windows Autopilot
  • Not this situation? If the computer goes directly to the Windows login screen without the Microsoft sign-in prompt, see Windows First Time Setup: New CAP Computer in the Related Articles section.

Resolution

  1. Connect the laptop to a power source.
  2. Connect the laptop to the Bowdoin network using an Ethernet cable.
  3. At the "Sign into Microsoft" screen, enter your full Bowdoin email address.
  4. Complete the sign-in process at Bowdoin's Okta sign-on page.
  5. The computer may reboot one or more times while preparing Windows — this is expected.
  6. At the Windows login screen, wait 15 minutes before signing in.
  7. Sign in with your Bowdoin username and password.
  8. Once the desktop appears, wait another 15 minutes for the automatic configuration to complete in the background.
  9. If prompted, reboot to install updates.
After Autopilot completes: Continue with the full computer setup — installing apps, restoring data, and configuring printers. See Windows First Time Setup: New CAP Computer in the Related Articles section.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (1)

Windows First Time Setup: New CAP Computer
Step-by-step guide for setting up a new Bowdoin Windows 11 computer received through the CAP program. Covers confirming data backup, connecting peripherals and monitors, logging in, restoring data with Druva inSync, installing apps from Company Portal, configuring core apps including PaperCut and OneDrive, and scheduling a follow-up with IT.