Windows 11 is the latest version of the Windows Operating System, which was first revealed to the world at the beginning of Summer 2021 and officially launched on 5^th October 21.

Following six years of using the same user interface, news of Windows 10’s successor was very much welcome. Essentially, Windows 11 looks and feels quite different from Windows 10. It’s more responsive, faster, and has a far slicker interface that’s easier to use and minimalistic.

Although a new interface has been in the wings for quite some time, you can see how Windows 11 has been created with the post-pandemic user in mind.  You can see hints of Microsoft’s intention to create a ‘calm and creative space’ that ‘brings you closer to the people and things you love.’

What new features does Windows 11 include?

There are quite a few expected new features as well as a few surprising ones. Some we can really see the value of for businesses. Others perhaps could do with a little more development. Anyhow, here’s a list of the most noticeable Windows 11 features:

• The Start Menu looks different and now launches from the centre of the taskbar.
• Desktops have been introduced that are designed to help a person stay organised at home and work. You can even create separate personalised desktops for home, work and school.
• Live Tiles have disappeared and, in their place, sit Widgets for things such as news, calendar events and weather.
• Updates are 40% smaller and cause fewer interruptions.
• Microsoft Teams is built into Windows 11 devices, making it even easier to connect with colleagues.
• Snap Layouts enable multiple windows to be opened at once in your chosen layout. In addition, they adapt to your screen size, while Snap Groups remembers the apps you’ve used so that you can revisit them whenever you wish.
• Vertical Tabs make it easy to search for things, so you don’t get confused with several tabs.

Are there any security benefits to Windows 11?

Yes, there are IT security benefits to upgrading to Windows 11. In basic terms, you cannot run Windows 11 on a device that lacks essential security hardware. As IT security specialists, we consider this a good thing.

However, less promising is that people with limited IT knowledge can disable certain security requirements.

Helpfully, though, Windows 11 gives organisations a way to ensure GDPR compliance.

There are quite a few security benefits to note, but the most important is the install requirement for a Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM 2.0). As a tamper-resistant technology, TPM performs cryptographic operations. It creates and stores cryptographic keys that cannot be interfered with. In Windows 11, TPM acts as a secure underpinning for the following IT security features:

• BitLocker (Device encryption on Windows Home)
• Measured Boot
• Windows Defender System Guard
• Device Health Attestation
• Windows Hello
• And more!

Will Windows 11 run on my device?

It will depend on what devices you’re using since Windows 11 needs a modern Central Processing Unit (CPU) and a 2.0 TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to work. Therefore, most older PCs will not support Windows 11.

With regards to PCs, here are the technical specifications that must be met:

• Your processor must be at least 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC)
• You’ll need at least 4 gigabytes of RAM
• Available storage must be 64 GB or more
• In terms of system firmware, your PC must be UEFI, Secure Boot capable
• As already mentioned, you’ll need TPM version 2.0
• With regards to displace and graphics, you’ll need a graphics card that is DirectX 12 or WDDM 2.0 driver compatible. You will also need a minimum 9” HD display of at least 720p

When’s the best time to update to Windows 11?

As to be expected with a new operating system of this magnitude, some significant software compatibility issues have been reported. For example, although compatible with Windows 11, accounting software provider Sage has seen some teething issues.

Today’s businesses use a wide variety of apps and third-party software. Therefore, a migration to Windows 11 must be carefully planned.

There’s no need to panic about ‘missing the boat,’ so to speak though, as Microsoft has committed to continue supporting Windows 10 until at least 2025.

However, the one thing we’d absolutely recommend if you’re purchasing any new devices is to make sure that they are Windows 11 compatible.

How can Agile Technical Solutions help?

At Agile, we work proactively with our clients to make sure that they introduce new software at precisely the right time for their business.

We’ll work closely with you to plan for a smooth migration, where amongst many things, we’ll:

• Review your existing hardware to determine which devices are Windows 11 compatible and must be upgraded or replaced.
• Identify which of your software vendors (if not already known to us) support Windows 11.
• Test and review your line-of-business apps to discover which ones are supported.
• Provide new devices (if required) with Windows 11 pre-installed.