Microsoft’s latest operating system is now here, but before jumping ship and upgrading to the new Windows 11, you better read this first.

After six years of Windows 10, Microsoft has released the latest version of its operating system — Windows 11.

Microsoft’s answer to the growing demand for better technology for home and business use is Windows 11 and Microsoft have called their latest operating system the “Windows that brings you closer to what you love.” But does it actually do that?

So let’s jump right into answering the five biggest questions you may have about Windows 11.

QUESTION #1: What Is the Difference Between Windows 10 and 11?

Windows 11 gets a significant boost in performance, functionality and style compared to Windows 10. Here is a rundown of the critical upgrades Microsoft has made for its latest operating system:

• Streamlined Productivity Functions: There are many small but significant upgrades that Microsoft added to Windows 11. Here are some examples:
  • Your PC will now remember the last layout of your choice when docking.
  • Each of your virtual desktops can also have a different background.
  • The Snap Layout function that lets users choose from a variety of layout options at the click of a button.
  • Widgets are back like never before.
• Windows gets a makeover: You might see some similarities between the design of Windows 11 and the Mac OS. Windows now sports tightly rounded corners and the taskbar icons are centered in the bottom task bar (this can be changed). They have kept in the ever reliable Start button though (but with a new look).
• New and Improved Teams: With hybrid work becoming the new normal around the world, Teams has started to become very popular. Because of this, Microsoft made sure to include upgrades including integrating Teams directly into the operating system. This makes it even easier to communicate with work colleagues, family and friends.
• Better Gaming Experience: Gamers will love that playing games on Windows 11 is made even better. Xbox Game Pass and Cloud gaming are now supported on the Xbox app in Windows 11.
• Android Apps on Your PC: Microsoft has successfully integrated Android apps on your PC with Windows 11. As this feature hasn’t been around long, we are not yet sure if these Android apps work optimally on a PC – stay tuned for more information.

QUESTION #2: Do I Need To Upgrade My Hardware To Switch To Windows 11?

It depends. Here is an checklist of what hardware is needed to run Windows 11 smoothly:

• At least an 8th generation dual-core CPU or processor running at 1Ghz or above.
• 4 GB of RAM (preferably 8G or above).
• At least 64 GB of storage (we recommend 256G or above).
• 720p display, with at least 9” diagonal size and 8 bits per colour channel.
• A graphics card compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver.
• UEFI, Secure Boot capable firmware
• TPM version 2.0. TPM is the Trusted Platform Module which is a dedicated security chip.

If your PC or laptop meets the above minimums, then you can safely upgrade to Windows 11.

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 listed above.

QUESTION #3: How Do I Upgrade From Windows 10 to Windows 11?

If you would like to upgrade from Windows 10 to 11, it is a fairly simple process. If your computer is compatible, you just need to go to the Windows Update section of your Settings and click “Check for Updates.”. Windows 11 should then appear as an upgrade option. Click the “Download and Install” button, and it should upgrade itself.

QUESTION #4: Do I Really Need to Upgrade?

No. If your computer is not compatible or can’t run Windows 11, you don’t have to upgrade. Even if your PC is compatible with Windows 11 but you find the upgrade unnecessary for your current workflow, there is nothing wrong with staying with Windows 10.

Microsoft have even said that Windows 10 is still the right choice for those who are not ready to transition to a new operating system. Microsoft will continue supporting Windows 10 until October 14, 2025.

This gives you about four years to think about upgrading to Windows 11 and confirming that all your applications are compatible and staff are confident to start using it.

QUESTION #5: Is The MS Office Suite Available on Windows 11?

MS Office isn’t included with MS Windows 11 and you will need to make a separate outright purchase or move onto a subscription plan.

If you have an existing subscription to M365 (previously known as O365), then you are all set. You just need to install the Office suite after upgrading to Windows 11.

Note: support for older versions of MS Office (2010 and below) has been discontinued since last year. If you are still using an old version of MS Office, we highly recommend  you upgrade your copy of Office to avoid making yourself vulnerable to security risks.

TECHNOLOGY THAT WORKS FOR YOU

Microsoft made it a point to make their latest operating system worth it for old and new Windows users. With the new changes in Windows 11, it is clear that the Microsoft have 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 a tool used to increase our productivity and efficiency.

That means you do not need to jump ship to Windows 11 if you are not ready to do so. Technology is only as effective as what you do and to how you use it. So if you are already happy with Windows 10 and it makes you 100% productive, then any change is unnecessary in the short term.

Alternatively, if you are seriously thinking about making the switch to Windows 11, but want to know more about its hardware compatibility and security updates, you need an IT service provider that is willing to talk you through it.

If you need any help in fully understanding the pros and cons of switching (or not changing) to Windows 11, schedule a free, no-obligation conversation with our team today by contacting us now.