Introduction
Windows 11 is the newest iteration of Microsoft’s desktop operating system. The new OS boasts of improved performance, a redesigned Start menu, new themes, and several new features geared towards productivity and gaming. The operating system has undergone a complete overhaul in terms of design, with new interface elements and updated icons.
One of the most notable changes in Windows 11 is the updated Start menu, which has been centered and simplified into a grid of app icons and widget cards. The search bar and function for pinned apps are retained.
Additionally, Windows 11 includes a new feature called Snap Layouts, which allows users to quickly organize windows on their desktop. Snap Groups allows users to save their preferred window layouts for quick access later.
The new OS also includes a new Power Mode setting that enables users to choose between lower battery consumption and better performance. This feature could be quite appealing to users who are always on-the-go.
Windows 11 also comes with several gaming-focused features including DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR, and DirectStorage, which drastically reduces game loading times.
Overall, Windows 11 promises to be faster, more productive, and more enjoyable to use than its predecessors. It’s scheduled to be launched in late 2021 as a free upgrade to eligible Windows 10 users.
Windows 11 system requirements
· Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
· RAM: 4 GB or greater
· Storage: 64 GB or larger storage device with at least 32 GB of free space
· System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
· TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
· Graphics card: Compatible with Microsoft DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver
· Display: High definition (720p) display greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel
Additional requirements for Windows 11:
· Internet connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features.
· Account: Microsoft account and internet connectivity required for some features.
· Xbox: Xbox app requires an Xbox Live account, which is not available in all regions.
Windows 11 language support
Windows 11 supports a wide range of languages, including:
- Arabic
- Bulgarian
- Chinese (Simplified)
- Chinese (Traditional)
- Croatian
- Czech
- Danish
- Dutch
- English (United States)
- English (United Kingdom)
- Estonian
- Finnish
- French (France)
- French (Canada)
- German
- Greek
- Hebrew
- Hindi
- Hungarian
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Latvian
- Lithuanian
- Norwegian (Bokmål)
- Polish
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Portuguese (Portugal)
- Romanian
- Russian
- Serbian (Latin)
- Slovak
- Slovenian
- Spanish (Spain)
- Spanish (Mexico)
- Swedish
- Thai
- Turkish
- Ukrainian
It’s important to keep in mind that the availability of language support may differ depending on the version of Windows 11 that you have and the location where you install it. So, it’s always a good idea to check the specific language options available in your region and edition of Windows 11 before purchasing or installing it.
Windows 11 editions
Windows 11 comes in four different editions to cater to different user needs.
1. Windows 11 Home: This edition is designed for home users and offers basic features such as improved touch controls, the new Start menu, and enhanced security.
2. Windows 11 Pro: Windows 11 Pro, on the other hand, is targeted towards businesses and provides additional features such as Remote Desktop, BitLocker encryption, and Hyper-V virtualization.
3. Windows 11 Enterprise: For larger organizations, Windows 11 Enterprise is the perfect choice, offering advanced features like AppLocker, DirectAccess, and BranchCache.
4. Windows 11 Education: Windows 11 Education is designed specifically for educational institutions and provides features like Group Policy, faster login times, and support for more languages.
Windows 11 key features
1. New Start Menu: The Start Menu in Windows 11 has undergone a major makeover with a sleek, modern design that offers a simpler and more organized way to access your favorite apps and files.
2. Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Windows 11 introduces new productivity features that make it easier to organize multiple windows on your screen. With Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, you can quickly arrange windows in pre-defined layouts or group them together for easier multi-tasking.
3.Microsoft Teams Integration: With the integration of Microsoft Teams in Windows 11, collaborating with your colleagues and friends has become much more convenient. You can easily chat, call, or video conference with your team members straight from your desktop.
4.Windows 11 has stepped up its game in terms of touch controls, providing a more user-friendly and natural touch experience. This means that navigating your device without a mouse or keyboard is now a breeze, making your interaction with the system more seamless and enjoyable.
5. Virtual Desktops: With Windows 11, you can create and manage multiple virtual desktops, each with their own set of apps and windows. This makes it easier to separate work and personal tasks, or to keep different projects organized.
6. Widgets: With Windows 11, you’ll be able to enjoy a new and personalized desktop experience with the introduction of Widgets. These will provide you with the latest news, weather, sports, and other updates in a personalized feed directly on your desktop.
7. Enhanced Performance: Windows 11 promises to deliver better performance with faster boot times, longer battery life, and smoother animations. With these improvements, you can expect a more efficient and enjoyable experience when using your device.
8. Microsoft Store Redesign: The Microsoft Store is getting a much-needed redesign with Windows 11, making it easier to find and download the apps you need.
9. Modernized System Icons: Windows 11 comes with a fresh and modern design, which includes updated system icons that are more consistent with the overall look and feel of the operating system.
10. Improved Gaming Features: Gamers will appreciate the improved gaming features of Windows 11, including better compatibility with a wider range of games and enhanced DirectX support for smoother and more immersive gameplay.
Windows 11 VS Windows 10
1. User Interface: Windows 11 has a more modern and clean look with rounded corners, centered taskbar icons, and redesigned Start menu. While Windows 10 still follows the traditional Start menu and taskbar design.
2. System Requirements: Windows 11 has slightly higher hardware requirements than Windows 10, especially for newer security features which may limit compatibility with older hardware.
3. Store and Apps: Windows 11 has a revamped Microsoft Store with support for Android apps, and improved integration with Xbox Game Pass and Teams. Windows 10 has a less robust store and fewer integration options.
4. Performance: Windows 11 claims to have better performance and faster boot times than Windows 10, thanks to optimizations and improvements in the core system.
5. Multitasking and Virtual Desktops: In Windows 11, multitasking and virtual desktops are improved with snap layouts, snap groups, and multiple desktops, making it easier to organize and switch between apps. Windows 10 also has virtual desktops but doesn’t offer as many features as Windows 11.
6. Security: Windows 11 introduces new security features such as Windows Hello on enterprise-level PCs and a new Microsoft Defender Application Guard feature that protects against malware and other online threats. While Windows 10 also has built-in security features, Windows 11 aims to be more secure.
Overall, Windows 11 appears to have a more modern and updated look, and some useful new features that may improve productivity, security, and performance. However, not all users may prefer the changes, and some may prefer familiar Windows 10 interface and functionality.
Critique of Windows 11
Windows 11 was released in October 2021 as an update to Windows 10, and it introduced several new features and changes. Some of the improvements include a redesigned Start menu, a new Snap Layouts feature, and enhanced touch controls for tablet devices. However, some users have criticised the new design for being too cluttered and confusing. The new Start menu, for example, now includes a combination of traditional app shortcuts and personalised recommendations, which some users find overwhelming. Moreover, users have reported issues with the new Snap Layouts feature, which can be confusing to use and buggy at times.
Another significant change in Windows 11 is the minimum system requirements, which have increased significantly compared to Windows 10. Many older devices may not be compatible with the new OS, which has been a significant concern for users.
Furthermore, Windows 11 has been criticised for its mandatory internet connection requirement and mandatory Microsoft account login during installation. These changes have raised privacy concerns, as users are forced to sign in with their Microsoft accounts to access certain features.
Windows 11 introduces several new features and improvements that many users will find helpful. However, some users may not be happy with certain changes. For instance, the new interface may seem overwhelming to some, while the high system requirements and mandatory internet connection have raised concerns among others. Ultimately, whether or not to upgrade to Windows 11 will depend on each user’s individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Windows 11 is the newest operating system from Microsoft that has garnered positive reviews from both users and critics. Its modern and sleek design, coupled with a host of new features and improvements, make it a compelling option for those who want to upgrade from Windows 10 or switch from other operating systems.
One of the most noticeable changes in Windows 11 is the centered Start menu, which gives the operating system a fresh and modern look. The taskbar design has also been updated, and the new snap layouts and virtual desktops features make multitasking easier and more efficient. The addition of Android apps is another notable feature, as it allows users to access their favourite mobile apps on their PC.
Aside from aesthetics, Windows 11 also offers enhanced performance, with faster startup times and better resource management. The operating system also includes advanced security features, such as Windows Hello and secure boot, to keep users protected from various threats.
Overall, Windows 11 seems to be a worthy upgrade with its various new features and improvements, although some users may have concerns regarding the high system requirements and mandatory internet connection. Nonetheless, it’s a compelling option for those looking for a modern and efficient operating system.