Windows 11: Sleek, Easy and Intuitive User Interface
Windows 11 brings a refreshed visual design that is cleaner and more modern than Windows 10.
- Center-aligned Start Menu and Taskbar: The start menu and taskbar are now centered, creating a minimal and aesthetically pleasing look. This design change greatly improves ease and navigability, especially for new users.
- Rounded Corners and Fluent Design: Windows 11 features rounded corners for windows, icons, and menus. Providing a softer and polished appearance. The new Fluent Design system includes light transparency and motion for a better finish.
- A New and Improved Start Menu: The new layout of the start menu focuses on your most recently used files. Offering a simpler, more responsive, and less noisy experience.
Performance and Productivity Fixes
Windows 11 was developed for improved multitasking, and it supports the latest hardware, making it faster than ever.
- Improved Memory Management: Windows 11 enhances the allocation of system resources like CPU and RAM for open applications. Enabling quicker responses and better multitasking.
- Start-up and Wake Times: Fast boot times allow the system to benefit from optimized power management. Performing better on laptops and hybrid devices with faster waking-up speeds.
- Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: One impressive feature is snap layouts, where users can automatically dock windows in set configurations. Tasks and workspaces can be opened in new windows, with these layouts saved as Snap Groups.
Enhanced Gaming Features
Microsoft has upped the ante for gaming on Windows 11 compared to other operating systems.
- Direct Storage: Originally exclusive to the Xbox Series X, this feature lets games load assets directly from the NVMe SSD, resulting in better loading times and performance.
- Auto-HDR: Windows 11’s Auto-HDR allows compatible games to benefit from enhanced color and lighting, delivering a more visually stunning High Dynamic Range (HDR) experience on new PCs.
Native Xbox Game Pass Integration: Windows 11 includes full, native integration with the Xbox app, allowing you to easily download all your favorite games from services like Game Pass and cloud gaming.
Security Enhancements
Windows 11 is built with security in mind, offering a more secure starting point than Windows 10.
- Virtualization-Based Security (VBS): VBS helps protect core parts of the operating system by isolating critical system processes from the rest of a user’s applications and devices, minimizing malware impact.
- Windows Hello and Passwordless Authentication: You can now use Windows Hello in more places, allowing fast, secure biometric logins and authentication using just your face or fingerprint, enabling a secure, password-less login experience.
New App Store & Android Apps
Windows 11 improves the Microsoft Store for an all-new user experience and features.
- Redesigned Store: The store’s new design is more organized and visually appealing, making it easier for users to find apps, games, and movies.
- More Developer Flexibility: Microsoft is now opening the Store to more types of applications, including traditional Win32 apps. This enables developers to get creative about the distribution of their applications, fostering a vibrant app environment.For more on how Windows 11 integrates with cloud services, check out our cloud services page.
Integration with Cloud Services and the Microsoft Ecosystem
Windows 11 follows Microsoft’s philosophy of a connected ecosystem, with deeper integration with its cloud services.
- Integrate Microsoft Teams: Windows 11 has native integration for Microsoft Teams, with the app placed in the Taskbar itself. This makes communication and collaboration easier for both personal and professional users.
- OneDrive with Cloud Sync: Windows 11 takes full advantage of built-in OneDrive integration, making it easy to back up everything to the cloud and keep files synced across devices. This feature is particularly handy for remote work or transitioning between devices.For more on how to manage your IT infrastructure, explore our IT support services.
Improved Touch and Hybrid Device Support
Windows 11 enhances touch and hybrid device support, making it ideal for tablet users and 2-in-1 devices.
- Touch & Pen Input Enhancements: Windows 11 gains more capability with touch and pen input, perfect for tablet users or 2-in-1 devices.
- Dynamic Taskbar: The taskbar automatically adjusts its size based on your input type, getting larger for touch devices and smaller for mouse/keyboard use.
- New Touch Gestures: New gestures make working with the touchscreen faster, such as using finger swipes to switch through apps and virtual desktops. Enhancements include a more user-friendly on-screen keyboard and an improved pen experience for drawing or writing notes.
Ready to upgrade to Windows 11 and experience these features firsthand? Contact eMazzanti today to learn how we can assist with your transition.
