In 2023, October became the debut month for the novel operating system, Windows 11, launched by Microsoft, which is the current talk of the town. If you have a computer that fulfils the given criteria, you are eligible to upgrade to the latest version of Windows at zero cost.
It is not mandatory to hurry while upgrading your system, as Microsoft has assured that they will continue supporting Windows 10 until 2025. But, if you prefer utilizing the latest attributes conferred by Windows 11, then you might plan on upgrading your system quicker. In this blog, we will be discussing the advantages of Windows 11, its accessibility, and the procedure to update your system.
What’s New with Windows 11?
The Microsoft Store underwent a complete transformation, providing numerous new perks such as a user-friendly design, advanced functionality, seamless connectivity, elevated gaming experience, and an all-new interface. Here is a closer glimpse of a few of its characteristics.
- You have the facility to organize your windows and enhance the aesthetics of your desktop screen by utilizing Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, and Desktops.
- By having the provision of multiple desktops, you can bifurcate your professional and personal workspaces, thus reducing clutter and improving efficiency.
- One of the new features is a Microsoft Teams Chat shortcut available on the taskbar, allowing for prompt and effortless access. Additionally, a presentation may be initiated from the menu bar.
- The enhanced capabilities of this updated operating system provide gamers with a chance to relish more authentic graphics, rapid frame rates, a broader spectrum of colors, and much more, revolutionizing their gaming experience. Learn more here.
- Similar to mobile applications, the Widgets functionality offers personalized content accessible at a single location, including breaking news, weather forecasts, and various other updates.
- The Microsoft Store has undergone significant improvements to provide swift search and navigation facilities, thereby simplifying the process of finding what you require. As stated in TechRepublic, prominent first and third-party software applications such as Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, Disney+, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom, and Canva, will soon be available for download through the Microsoft Store along with Android apps.
What Are the Benefits of Upgrading?
Enumerated below are some of the prominent grounds to switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11.
Applications function more efficiently.
Windows 11 has enhanced memory management, giving precedence to open windows, thereby ensuring a seamless user experience. Moreover, resuming from sleep mode has been optimized, effectively saving essential time.Quick access to Start Menu and Taskbar.
Windows 11 has improved accessibility by relocating the Start Menu and Taskbar to the center of the screen. However, the option to move them back to their original position remains unchanged. The Start Menu now displays frequently used programs and files, resulting in a clutter-free display. The dedicated search icon has replaced the search box in the Taskbar, and the exclusive Cortana feature has been removed.Facilitates Multitasking.
Snap Layouts enables users to group windows and resize them in multiple ways, resulting in an efficient multitasking experience. Additionally, the operating system can remember the window layout, restoring the original display configuration.Greater functionality on tablets.
Tablets equipped with touch-enabled devices provide a more interactive user experience. Additionally, the Operating System (OS) supports gestures, allowing users to toggle between desktops and launch applications, thereby further enhancing the user experience. Find out more here.The most secure option available.
With the latest Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 and the new Secure Boot feature, Windows 11 is the most secure version of Windows yet, ensuring maximum protection.
Reports indicate that upgrading to Windows 11 is as simple as installing a Windows 10 feature update, validating Microsoft’s assertion that it is as user-friendly as its predecessor. The integration of Windows 11 with management technologies such as Microsoft Endpoint Manager, cloud configuration, Windows Update for Business, and Autopilot makes its deployment and maintenance even more effortless.
Microsoft 365’s Test Base allows teams to test their vital applications. Additionally, Microsoft provides App Assure, which assists teams with 150 or more users in resolving application-related concerns, with a commitment that all pre-installed software will remain compatible with Windows 11.
When Should You Consider an Upgrade?
Although Windows 11 has been launched recently, not all users are convinced of the advantages of upgrading immediately. PC Gamer recently disclosed that the new operating system is missing specific features as per the initial claim. However, it was highlighted that they will likely be available in a subsequent release.
Microsoft will strive to resolve any concerns related to suboptimal system performance or those that fail to meet customer satisfaction during the first ten-day period. You can choose to rollback to the previous version of Windows during the first 10 days if you are not satisfied after installing Windows 11.
Ways to Improve
If you are not working with an IT department to perform the Windows 11 update, kindly follow the instructions below. First and foremost, familiarise yourself with the minimum system requirements for your device.
Processor:
A 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC) running at a minimum speed of 1 GHz with at least two processing cores is required.RAM:
The minimum required RAM is 4 gigabytes (GB).Storage:
The device must have a storage capacity of at least 64 GB.System firmware:
The device’s firmware must support UEFI and Secure Boot.Visual Effects Card:
The device must have DirectX 12 or later and be compatible with WDDM 2.0 drivers.Display:
The device’s display must have at least 720p HD resolution, a screen size of 9 inches or more, and support for 8 bits per color channel.Online Presence:
To use Windows 11 Home edition, you will need a Microsoft account and an active internet connection. To disable Windows 11 Home in S mode, the device must be connected to the internet. All Windows 11 editions require internet connectivity to obtain updates, access content, and some features. Additionally, certain functionalities may necessitate a Microsoft account.
Next, check the Update & Security settings page to verify if your computer is compatible with the free upgrade to Windows 11. If eligible, you will be prompted to download Windows 11. Before upgrading, please ensure that your current software is compatible with the new OS, you have updated Windows 10, restarted your system, and backed up all data.
