Windows 11 for Business: Questions Answered

Should you upgrade to the new Windows 11 for business? Or stick with Windows 10? As a managed service provider, we help clients navigate these questions and more. Here are the main features that Windows 11 provides so you can make the best decision for your business. 

Realize, unlike other Windows updates, you do not have to use Windows 11 (it’s actually Windows 10.5). Windows 10 is a great system. If it is working well for you, there is no reason to jump to Windows 11 right away.  The downside of sticking with Windows 10 is that most new devices will come with Windows 11 pre-installed so you could be dealing with having two different operating systems within your business.

If not, the first thing to do is make sure your devices can handle Windows 11. Just go to your settings, then navigate to updates and security. You might see a message that says something like “This [device] meets the minimum requirements to run  Windows 11” or that it does not. If your device is not compatible, you may be able to correct that with hardware upgrades (e.g., RAM) but in all likelihood, you would need a different device. View the minimum system requirements for Windows 11.

Windows 11 Surprises

According to Znet, there are two “surprise” features in Windows 11:

• The Windows App  Store will include the Amazon App Store inside the Windows Store App.
• Microsoft has made improvements to the File Explorer tool as well as wideband speech support for Apple’s AirPods.

Differences Between Windows 10 and Windows 11

• There is a significant improvement in performance and functionality.
• It looks a lot different, similar to Apple’s interface but more modern looking with  more functionality.
• The PC will remember your last or preferred layout of your choice.
• You will have virtual desktops that can have different backgrounds and widgets. For instance, one can have Word, Microsoft Edge and Teams open. Another can have PowerPoint, OneNote and a music player. Note: These virtual desktops are not the same as having a full virtual machine like Microsoft 365 Cloud PC.
• If passwords saved to the browser match those seen in the list of leaked credentials, Microsoft Edge will notify and prompt you to update your password. Note: Aeko strongly recommends that you NEVER save passwords to a browser and instead use a password manager like LastPass.
• Windows 11 features a Snap Layout function that lets users choose from a variety of layout options at the click of a button.

• Snap Assist and Desktop Groups help you better organize the apps on your desktop.  You can even drag one of them to the edge of the screen to activate Snap Assist to “snap” them all (maximum of four, five with hotkeys) to a clean, organized grid that makes the most of your screen space and can “remember” your choice. With Desktop Groups, you can quickly switch between multiple desktops. 
• The Start button is still there but it’s now centered on the screen along with any other apps you frequently use.

• When you click it, you will see all your pinned apps plus your frequently used files, photos, etc.
• The settings menu is on the bottom right on Windows 11 and can be included, as many other apps can, in the featured box below.
• Windows 11 has several different layouts for its Snap and Assist interface: They are easily movable.

These are just a few of the differences, which are primarily meant to be user friendly. See them in action in this video from Microsoft:

The other differences are more technical in nature and are intended to make the new operating system easier and safer than Windows 10. Some  options allow flexibility to fit almost anyone’s workflow.

• The MSIX app package format is integrated, providing a modern packaging experience to all Windows apps. It preserves the functionality of existing app packages and/or install files in addition to enabling new, modern packaging and deployment features.
• It enables enterprises to stay current and ensure their applications are always up to date. It allows IT pros and developers to deliver a user-centric solution while still reducing the cost of ownership of applications by reducing the need to repackage.
• Microsoft has added detailed battery statistics into the Settings app to give the user an insightful graph that displays power usage over 24 hours or seven days. With it you can see  which apps are using the most power at any given time of the day.
• Another feature allows you to fully customize the gestures you can perform on your touchpad like a three-finger swipe up to maximize an app window or a four-finger swipe to the left to snap an app in Snap Assist.
• Microsoft’s Teams Chat is integrated on Windows 11, allowing users to reach anyone (call, chat, text, video) right from their desktop.
• You can stream more content with more speed, making gaming even more fun than before.

Microsoft intends to release new features slowly, allowing users to fully acclimate to them before adding more on.

Not Sure About Windows for Business? 

Whether Windows 11 for business is right for you is something only you can decide. Aeko is very familiar with all of the features on Windows 11 and Windows 10 and will be happy to assist you in making this decision. Contact us or book a meeting for a quick consultation.