Windows 11 is Microsoft's latest operating system that offers an enhanced user experience with various new features and improvements. Released in October 2021, Windows 11 represents a significant upgrade from Windows 10.
If you are a business user gearing up for the switch, then keep reading as we delve into the new features in Windows 11 that you should know.
Windows 11 will require Intel 8th gen Coffee Lake or Zen 2 CPUs and up, 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. This will ultimately leave behind millions of PCs that were bought and sold during the previous Windows launch – Windows 10.
This is pretty unusual for Microsoft, as both Windows 8 and Windows 10 only needed a 1GHz processor, 1GB of RAM and 16GB of storage.
With expectations of Microsoft users high, as it was announced that the Windows 11 upgrade would be free to those who already have windows 10, we can understand why many customers of Microsoft are disappointed to find that at the end of the day, they may not be able to access this new upgrade after all.
After a lot of backlash, Microsoft tried to explain the reasoning for the new hardware requirements, which has ultimately come down to security.
Microsoft is aiming to enable a more up-to-date BIOS (basic input/output system) that supports features such as Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 (trusted platform module).
TPM chips, device encryption, HVCI (hypervisor-protected code integrity) and Secure Boot “has shown to reduce malware by 60 per cent” Windows claim. However, to support all of these protections, you need modern hardware.
It is understandable why Microsoft decided to put more of a focus on security with this launch, as Microsoft’s operating system is known to have pitfalls when coming to protecting itself against Ransomware and Malware attacks.
Here are the 5 top features of Microsoft Windows 11:
The redesigned Windows 11 Start menu is one of the most noticeable changes in the new operating system. Unlike in previous versions of Windows where the Start menu was located in the bottom left corner of the screen, the new Start menu now resides in the center of the taskbar.
Users can quickly access the most frequently used apps with the new Recommended section, and the Search bar has also received an update, making it more efficient.
Windows 11 now allows users to create and manage multiple virtual desktops. This feature can be useful for business users that work on a multitude of tasks and want to keep things organised with separate desktops for each one. Simply swipe left to access your virtual desktops from the Task View button on the taskbar.
Microsoft Teams has become a critical component for businesses in the way it assists teams in collaborating remotely. In Windows 11, Microsoft has introduced a Teams integration that now comes pre-installed with the OS. Your Teams chats, video calls and meetings are now easily accessible with the integrated app in the taskbar.
Read about Teams Tips and Tricks of 2024
Snap layouts are a new feature that makes multitasking easier and more efficient. Business users can take advantage of this feature by snapping windows into different regions on the screen.
Windows 11 offers different layout configurations that you can access by right-clicking the maximise button on a window, allowing you to quickly shift between tasks.
Windows 11 offers improved security features that keep your devices and data secure. The new secure boot process adds extra security by ensuring that the firmware, operating system, and hardware are all safely protected.
Windows 11 also utilises automatic security updates, making sure your device is always updated with the latest security patches.
Windows 11 brings in several changes that will enhance the business user experience.
With the redesigned Start menu, virtual desktops, Microsoft Teams integration, Snap Layouts, and advanced security features, upgrading to Windows 11 can be a beneficial move for your business needs.
As we adjust to the new way of working, such changes can make our workflow more efficient and productive.