Microsoft began rolling out Windows 11 in October 2021. If you are currently using Windows 10 and want to move to Windows 11, this can be done via a free update. However, there are a couple of catches. The update is only available for compatible devices and a staged Microsoft rollout means you may need to wait to receive it.
Is my PC eligible for Windows 11?
The minimum system requirements (at this time) to run Windows 11 is an Intel Core 8th-gen processor or newer, or an AMD Ryzen 2000 processor or newer. You can check your PCs eligibility by downloading Microsoft’s PC Health Check App. Even if your device is compatible, you may need to wait for the update. This is because rollout is being phased and full rollout is expected to take until the middle of 2022. When the download is available for your PC, you will be notified via Windows Update.
What are the best new features of Windows 11
1. Performance
- Microsoft has said that Windows 11 employs overall better memory management. It is designed specifically to favour the app that is running in the foreground. This means the app you are using e.g. Excel, opens much faster and performs better, even when the CPU is under very heavy load from other apps and background tasks. This change should make your PC feel much faster.
- PC wakes up 25% faster from sleep mode and boots up faster.
- Browser cache uses less disk space
- In Microsoft Edge, tabs that are not being used can be sent to sleep automatically. This prevents them from requiring CPU or memory resources. It is believed that this can extend the battery life on laptops and tablets and increase CPU resources available for other apps.
2. Start Menu
This is centred on the screen instead of on the left-hand side. It only contains a list of apps and your most frequent documents (no live tiles)
3. Task Bar
The search box is an icon in Windows 11 and Cortana functions have been removed.
4. External monitors
If you use two monitors or more, you will know how frustrating it can be in Windows 10 when you disconnect a monitor and then plug it back in i.e. your windows need reconfiguring to be open on your preferred monitor. In contrast, Windows 11 remembers your set up and restores it as soon as you reconnect.
5. Tablet mode
Although Windows 10 tablet mode has been removed from Windows 11, the latest version of Windows still supports touch devices and tablets. The difference between the two versions is that in Windows 11 the feature can’t be switched on or off manually. Instead, the user interface automatically adjusts for touch when it detects a keyboard has been detached.
6. Security
Windows 11 is more secure due to the requirement for TPM 2.0 to be enabled and UEFI Secure Boot.
7. Microsoft App Store
This is an updated and redesigned version of the Windows Store. The user interface of the new Microsoft App Store is much simpler to navigate and enables users to download apps, games, films etc. In addition, support for Android apps will soon be available via the Amazon Appstore. This is still in beta at the moment.
8. Microsoft Teams
Windows 11 has an integrated Teams platform that makes it easier to launch and use Teams chats and meetings with a single click.
Windows 11 appears to offer many advantages and new features. However, if you are not quite ready to make the move, no need to worry; Windows 10 is still being supported until 2025.
Data Computer Services is an experienced IT support company in Edinburgh. We offer businesses a range of IT services including support for your Microsoft products. Please get in touch to find out more.