Windows 11: Questions and Answers
Microsoft recently released the Windows 11 operating system, which is their first major release since 2015. As technology advances, software and compatibility also change. Since the release of Windows 11 on October 5, the business world has been buzzing.
One major reason behind that is the number of businesses and organizations in Connecticut that use Windows. When there’s a change to Windows, it means a change to the daily lives of business users. That leaves business users with many questions about Windows 11. In response, the team at Realized Solutions has compiled the most frequently asked questions and given you the answers.
What is Windows 11?
Windows 11 is the latest upgrade for the Windows operating system. Windows 11 is set to make a major impact with its sleek design, enhanced application offerings, layouts, and multiple desktops that aim to improve efficiency and productivity while providing a seamless user experience. From the new operating system’s increased, built-in security features designed to protect your data, the customized feeds that put everything you need to know in one location, and collaboration and communication solutions that allow teams to stay connected, there is so much to know when it comes to Windows 11. One of the first things users will notice about Windows 11 is the new Start menu and the updated Start button, which are both positioned in the center of the taskbar.
Is Windows 11 similar to Windows 10?
Windows 11 is built on the familiar Windows 10 foundation and is being deployed the same way as a Windows 10 update. Users can still utilize tools like Microsoft Intune (also known as Microsoft Endpoint Manager), Windows Update for Business (WUfB), cloud configuration, and Autopilot to support business environments as the integration into Windows 11 begins.
Windows 11 was also designed with a greater focus on security standards. With built-in security technologies like Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) and Trusted Platform Module version 2.0, Windows 11 has added greater protection from top to bottom to help more businesses and organizations create a more successful hybrid workplace. Windows 11 also provides a zero trust-ready operating system and passwordless access to protect data access across multiple devices.
Will all devices be compatible with Windows 11?
While Windows 11 is following in Windows 10’s footsteps and is available as a free upgrade, the upgrade path for Windows 11 has been narrowed due to greater attention being placed on security. So, while the Windows 11 upgrade has been available to the public for two weeks, every device is not going to be eligible.
Windows 11 will not run on a 32-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC). This means that Windows 10 will be the last update for PCs that have SoC or a 32-bit processor. Windows 11 also has other system requirements that devices will need to meet to successfully upgrade to Windows 11, including, but not limited to, the following:
- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC)
- 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage
- Trusted Platform Module version 2.0
- Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI)
- Graphics card that is compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver
Will Windows 11’s performance be better than the performance in Windows 10?
Performance and usability are always major concerns when a new version of Windows is released. Some reports state that Windows 11 runs similar to Windows 10, but there are other reports that state users believe Windows 11 has brought significant performance improvements. In comparison to Windows 10 updates, Windows 11 updates will be 40 percent smaller in size.
Windows 11 was also designed to be more energy-efficient than other operating systems, and this will allow devices to run longer in-between charges. If you have plans to continue using Windows 11 on the same hardware you have now, you should set expectations that are realistic.
Will the Windows 11 upgrade be mandatory?
When Windows 10 was released in 2015, many people were surprised by the release. You were likely one of the users who woke up one day and had Windows 10 on your device. Microsoft did not receive the best responses after what happened in 2015, so they did not take the same route for the Windows 11 upgrade. It is not mandatory to upgrade to Windows 11, and Windows 10 will continue to be supported until October 2025. Also, if your PC does not support Windows 11, it will not be able to upgrade.
What will happen to file systems once we upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 10?
Your file systems and confidential data will not be negatively impacted when upgrading to Windows 11 from Windows 10. However, it is always recommended to back up your sensitive and confidential data before installing Windows 11 on your devices.
Our work environment is using Windows 7/Windows 8. Can we use Windows 11?
Microsoft does offer a direct upgrade to Windows 11 from Windows 7 and Windows 8 devices, but it will require a clean install. A clean install means you will lose the file system after the installation process has been completed. So, it is important to have the proper backup and disaster recovery plans in advance.
It is important to note that your Windows 7 and 8 devices have to be upgraded to Windows 10 first. Once your devices meet the system requirements, your devices can be upgraded to Windows 11. If your Windows 7 and Windows 8 devices do not support Windows 10, you will not be able to upgrade those devices to Windows 11. You will have to purchase new devices once you are ready to run Windows 11.
If your current hardware configuration is too old, upgrading if eligible or buying new devices will not only help run Windows 11 but will also provide a greater experience.
Realized Solutions Can Ensure a Smooth Upgrade of Windows 11 For Your Business
As with previous operating system updates, there is always the possibility some issues will be encountered. While many business users are excited about Windows 11 and the opportunity for better performance and usability, our team is here to help ensure that the Windows 11 upgrade will not disrupt your business operations in Connecticut.
Request a consultation with the Realized Solutions team today.
