Microsoft Windows 11: The most important functions and requirements
With Windows 11, Microsoft launched a new operating system on the market in October 2021 after more than six years. The software giant from Redmond certainly surprised with the release. In recent years, Microsoft has pursued a strategy of continuous development of Windows 10. In this article you will find out what is new and different with Microsoft Windows 11.
A first look at Microsoft Windows 11: This is what the new operating system looks like
When you start Windows 11 for the first time, you will notice the changed start menu and the new taskbar. For the first time, these are aligned in the middle of the display and are no longer left-aligned. However, if you want, you can change this and restore the usual positioning.
Microsoft has also removed the live tiles in the Start menu in Windows 10. Instead, the menu here shows programs, the most recently opened files and controls. This means that the contents of the start menu are more reminiscent of Windows 7. However, the start menu of Windows 11 is the same Cloud and Microsoft 365 tied together. This data also appears in the entries.
The return of the widgets is also noticeable at first glance. These were available for the first time in Windows Vista, but did not catch on. However, user behavior has now changed. A quick look at the desktop and the individually usable widgets display the desired information. Classic widgets include weather displays or news tickers.
A purely visual change affects the edges of the start menu and the windows. These are now rounded off. This also means that Microsoft is returning to the presentation of Windows 7, where the corners were also round.
In addition, a light and a dark mode are available again for Windows 11. In the Enterprise version of Windows 11 the Dark mode activated by default. This is intended to protect the eyes during prolonged use. However, you can switch to light mode at any time with this version.
The operating system features: What's new in Microsoft Windows 11?
With Windows 11, Microsoft is introducing some new features and changes. These are primarily intended to increase productivity and improve daily work with the operating system.
Microsoft has revised the search function in Windows 11. The search is now integrated directly into the taskbar and can therefore be accessed even more quickly. The system also saves the last search terms and offers a list of quick search terms.
Windows 11 brings a completely new concept when it comes to windows and tabs. Microsoft calls this feature “Snap Layout”. This function is particularly helpful in everyday work. You probably often work with several applications at the same time. Switching between the open windows has so far been quite cumbersome.
In Windows 10, it was not possible to have more than two windows open next to each other on the desktop. Alternatively, third-party tools were necessary to pin multiple windows to the desktop.
Windows 11 removes this limitation. You can now place up to four windows on the desktop simultaneously. Snap Layout also offers the option to change the size and position of the windows.
The Microsoft Store is completely revised and essentially new. It is known from Windows 10. Microsoft has entered into collaborations with third-party providers. Thanks to this collaboration, the range of apps is expanding significantly. Adobe Creative Cloud is now integrated into the Windows 11 Store.
From 2022, it should also be possible to install Android apps natively on systems with Windows 11. This is especially with regard to the World of work 4.0 Interesting. This is where mobile work and the classic workstation merge. Windows 11 then bridges the gap to smartphones and tablets because you can use the same apps.
What system requirements does Microsoft Windows 11 have?
Computers on which you want to install Microsoft Windows 11 must meet the minimum operating system requirements. Microsoft has published the exact specifications.
Windows 11 is the first operating system that is only available as a 64-bit version. Accordingly, your PC must have a 64-bit CPU. There are various tools online that you can use to check whether your PC is compatible with Microsoft Windows 11. Microsoft itself also offers a checking option with the PC Health Check app.
At least 64 GB of hard disk space is required for the installation. This is significantly more than its predecessor, Windows 10. Also keep in mind that you will need additional space for programs, documents and other data.
redIT recommends the following minimum system requirements for Microsoft Windows 11:
- Dual-core CPU with 1 GHz clock speed and 64-bit architecture
- 8 GB memory
- 128 GB SSD
- Graphics that support DirectX 12.0 and WDDM 2.0
- Mainboard with UEFI BIOS from version 2.3.1 and Secure Boot
- Mainboard with Trusted Platform Module version 2.0
Who is Microsoft Windows 11 suitable for and when does it make sense to switch?
Microsoft Windows 11 is designed for both home users and professional use. As with previous versions of the operating system, there are different editions of Windows 11. In addition to Windows 11 Home for private users, Windows 11 Professional offers extended functions for use in companies.
In addition, Windows 11 is specifically optimized for mobile work. On the one hand, this is reflected in the revised store, which is now also compatible with Android mobile apps. On the other hand, Microsoft has also improved the operating system's energy saving features.
This is noticeable on mobile devices such as laptops. This makes longer battery life possible. Microsoft achieves this with the help of numerous new features, such as the dynamic refresh rate (DRR) for the screen. The refresh rate is significantly reduced here, for example when writing an email or reading a document. This reduces power consumption.
In addition, multitasking is much more convenient thanks to the snap layouts with Windows 11. Use the Windows + Z key combination to create layout templates, which you can then call up directly if you wish. These Snap Groups allow you to create and save a layout according to your own ideas.
With these features, Microsoft Windows 11 is a good operating system for digital workplace. The advantages are particularly noticeable on laptops and mobile devices.
Choose the right operating system
The choice of operating system is a central task when setting up your own IT. There are many factors to consider here. This includes compatibility with other programs and hardware you use in your company.
A modern operating system like Microsoft Windows 11 automatically brings a number of advantages for companies. These are for example:
- long-term support with updates
- current platform with modern drivers
- Compatibility with new software is guaranteed
Are you unsure whether switching to Microsoft Windows 11 is worth it? Another operating system may also be an option for you. In these situations, seek professional support. IT consultants analyze your situation and your IT. We at redIT advise you on digitalization issues, including the choice of operating system. This is how you find the optimal solution.
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