Windows 11: Microsoft’s brand-new operating system is here

Windows 11 signify the first major upgrade software platform and boasts crucial technology roadmap elements for business and consumers alike.

Updates from around the web indicates that Windows 11 marks the turning point of computing technology in the history of Windows on personal computers such as desktops and laptops.

With the advent of the pandemic, the nature and frequency of computing device has changed dramatically. Every business and household have witnessed a rapid transition of PCs being used for regular activities to becoming an integral part of daily lifestyle. 

More people and organizations are now using PCs and Macs for shopping, entertainment, social activities and business.

The design of Windows 11 reflects the growing drive for social changes and online interaction that is now becoming common place since 2020.

The need for increased productivity and social cohesion is one of the major factors being tackled by Microsoft in Windows 11, as it seeks to enhance user experienced within a single computing environment and digital interface.

Introducing: Windows 11

The video below of Windows 11 highlight some of the key functionalities for the many different user scenarios.

Windows 11: What’s new?

Windows 11 has a fresh interface, with a simplistic appearance packed with features and updates for increased productivity. Some of the main changes include:

Simplified start menu and taskbar that are cantered on the base of your display screen, similar to how they appear in Apple MacOS. Additionally, Windows 11 fully embraces cloud technology and Microsoft 365 - again like taking a page out of Apple's iCloud design. This makes it easy for recent files to be consistently synced and consistently displayed across devices.

Personalised widgets have now replaced the use of live tiles for news, events, weather and many other common features.

There is also the presence of snap layouts to simplify the opening of multiple windows at once. This feature enables users to adaptation for different screen sizes and efficient working.

Snap Groups facilitate historical retention of apps used which are displayed in the Taskbar similar to the grouped download used by Apple MacOS. Users can easily minimise and access group icons with a single click instead of controlling them individually.

Customisation and the creation of different desktops based on user preference or use case scenarios such as school, work, entertainment...etc.

Microsoft Teams is a native application for Windows 11 operating system, allowing computer users to easily collaborate with others from the taskbar. Outlook and the calendar app are also natively available for users for easier communication, similar to how it's done in MacOS versions.

Updates file sizes have now been reduced by 40% and run seamlessly in the background for better user experiences.

The heath check app has been revamped with notification prompts that suits the current system specs and application setup. Major changes reflected includes brightness power saving modes and screen brightness.

Users can now download Android apps, onto their Windows 11 devices via the Microsoft Store and Amazon App Store.

Gaming components have also been optimised for better performance and graphics features, including a new Game Pass app to buy and manage games.

How to download Windows 11?

There is a minimum system requirement for computers to operate on Windows 11. If you are using Windows 10, it is possible for some computers to upgrade to Windows 11 for free, especially on modern laptops and PC.

Eligible devices will be receiving regular Windows 11 upgrade notifications from Microsoft over the coming months. 

Provided your computer is meets the required specification, installing Windows 11 will not present, much challenges for you to get started. 

Like its predecessor, Windows 11 will require periodic updates to ensure optimal performance and continued system security.

It is also possible to visit the Windows 11 download page and perform a manual upgrade from Windows 10.

Support for Windows 10 will continue to be available from Microsoft until 2025. Once the cut-off date arrive, users will still be able to operate their computers as normal but will no longer receive active support or security updates. 

Hopefully by then most computers would've been changed to newer system or upgraded to Windows 11 to avoid unexpected interruptions.

Keeping Windows 11 up-to-date

One of the most important resources for keeping Windows 11 up to date is to have internet connection. Microsoft has designed their operating systems to periodically check for updates and in some cases do the initial downloads then prompt users to complete the installation and system restart where necessary. 

As a system user, you can also check for pending or optional updates available for your device and perform complete the relevant setup manually.

Additional details for Windows 11 can be obtained directly from Microsoft or Solid Rock IT UK. If you are considering upgrading your computers, laptop or other related systems simply contact us today.