Microsoft’s latest operating system is starting to take the world by storm. But before jumping ship and upgrading to the new OS, read this first.
It’s finally here!
After six years, Microsoft has just released the latest version of its operating system — Windows 11.
At a time when computers and technology play a more central role in human lives, tech companies are scrambling to deliver the best user experience possible to capture the ever-expanding market. Microsoft’s answer to the growing demand for better technology for home and business use is Windows 11.
Microsoft dubs their latest operating system the “Windows that brings you closer to what you love.” But are they actually able to achieve that?
I know you have many more burning questions about this latest OS from Microsoft. So without further ado, let’s jump right into answering the five biggest questions you may have about Windows 11.
THE FIVE QUESTIONS ABOUT WINDOWS 11
QUESTION #1 – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WINDOWS 10 AND 11?
Windows 11 significantly boosts performance, functionality, and style compared to Windows 10. Here’s a small rundown of the critical upgrades Microsoft made for its latest OS:
- Windows gets a makeover: If you’ve used Apple before, you might see the similarities between the design of the macOS and the latest Windows model. Windows now also sport tightly rounded corners and the taskbar icons are permanently centred. But at least the ever-handy Start button is here to stay.
- Streamlined Productivity Functions: Microsoft did many small but significant upgrades for the new OS. For one, your PC will now remember the last layout of your choice when docking. Each of your virtual desktops can also have a different background, widgets are back like never before and Windows 11 features a Snap Layout function that lets users choose from various layout options at the click of a button.
- New and Improved Teams: With hybrid work becoming the new normal worldwide, Teams entered the spotlight. Because of this, Microsoft made sure to include reasonable upgrades to the application. For example, Teams is now integrated into the operating system, making communicating easier with family, friends, and colleagues.
- Better Gaming Experience: Microsoft did not think about just business people and workers when designing the new Windows 11. Gamers will love the fact that playing games on Windows are made even better, with Xbox Game pass and Cloud gaming supported on the Xbox app in the new OS.
- Android Apps on Your PC: Aside from offering better compatibility with the Xbox, Microsoft has successfully integrated Android apps on your PC using Windows 11. But here’s the catch: We’re not yet sure if these Android apps would work optimally on PC.
QUESTION #2 – DO I NEED TO MAKE HARDWARE CHANGES TO SWITCH TO WINDOWS 11?
It depends. Here’s an essential checklist of what you need to have to run Windows 11 smoothly:
- At least a 1GHZ dual-core processor
- 4 GB of RAM
- At least 64 GB of storage
- A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver
- 720p display, at least 9” diagonal size, with 8 bits per colour channel
- TPM version 2.0
- UEFI, Secure Boot capable firmware
If your PC or laptop covers or does more than what’s listed above, you can safely upgrade to Windows 11 worry-free. On the other hand, you might have to make some hardware upgrades or buy a new device altogether if your current one does not meet the minimum requirements.
QUESTION #3 – IS THE MICROSOFT OFFICE SUITE AVAILABLE ON WINDOWS 11?
No, you have to pay for a Microsoft Office subscription first. But if you have an existing subscription to Microsoft 365, then you’re all set. You just need to install the Office suite after upgrading to Windows 11.
Note that support for older versions of Office (2010 and below) has been discontinued since last year. So if you’re still using that, we suggest you make necessary changes to avoid making yourself vulnerable to security risks.
QUESTION #4 – HOW CAN I SWITCH FROM WINDOWS 10 TO 11?
If you want to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11, you just need to go to the Windows Update section of your Settings and click “Check for Updates.”
Windows 11 will just be there available in the upgrade section.
Click the “Download and Install” button, and that’s it.
QUESTION #5 – DO I NEED TO SWITCH TO WINDOWS 11?
No – if your computer is incompatible or can’t run Windows 11, you don’t have to upgrade.
On the other hand, if your PC is compatible with Windows 11, but you find the upgrades unnecessary for your current workflow, there’s nothing wrong with staying with Windows 10. Even Microsoft said that Windows 10 is still the right choice for those who aren’t ready to transition to a new operating system. They made sure of this by scheduling an update for Windows 10 later this year. At the same time, the company will continue supporting Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.
This gives you about four years to consider upgrading to the new Windows OS or switching operating systems altogether.
TECHNOLOGY THAT WORKS FOR YOU
The new era of Windows has finally arrived.
Microsoft made it a point to make their latest OS worth it for old and new Windows users. And with these new updates, it is clear that the company has made an effort to find out its users’ pain points and address them. But despite these new features, you have to understand one thing:
Technology is just a tool used to increase our everyday productivity and efficiency.
That means you don’t need to jump ship to Windows 11 if you’re not ready to do so outright. Technology is only as effective as how much you use it. So if you’re already a master of Windows 10 and it makes you 100% productive, then change is unnecessary.
Now, suppose you’re seriously considering switching to Windows 11. But you want to know more about its hardware compatibility and security updates. In that case, you need an IT service provider willing to talk you through it. If you need any help in fully understanding the pros and cons of switching (or not changing) your OS, schedule a conversation with our MSP team today.