Windows 11 was released earlier this month, but what does this mean for your business?
Windows 10 has been the primary choice of an operating system for billions of users. Six years after its introduction, it has received an upgrade. Windows 11 is the new kid on the block, it’s a free upgrade for computers and tablets running Windows 10. For businesses though, the big question is whether the upgrade makes sense to upgrade now or do you wait, as after all, Microsoft is promising to support the Windows 10 OS until October 2025.
What changes can you expect see with Windows 11 upgrade?
- A fresh clean design to revamp your desktop.
- New powerful ways to multitask and make the most of your screen space, windows can be tiled and grouped for the busier user.
- Great accessibility features for the most inclusive experience yet
- Support for multiple monitors has also received an upgrade. Sharing or casting your display is much easier (and needs less digging into the settings).
- Enhanced security features to keep your data safe while you’re working.
- The next big change is the traditional Start-menu. As its default, the start menu appears in the middle of the screen – with more customization available for what your menu looks like, taking inspiration from popular smartphone interfaces.
Security
Security is priority for Windows 11. While remote working has grown, so too has cybersecurity risks. With more people seeking to access software and applications remotely, cyberattacks have soared. Windows 11 encompasses a Zero Trust framework. This supports both user identity and the platform to better safeguard access, making cybersecurity a default rather than an add-on. It offers hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware protection with hybrid work in mind.
Malware attacks are said to occur at least every few seconds: running on Windows 11, the risk is reduced with added encryption and updated protection against malware, hacks, and ransomware attacks.
Changes to expect
A select number of familiar features are now removed from Windows 11, including Internet Explorer and Cortana. Paint has been updated to bring it in line with more modern image editors.
Overall, Windows 11 is stripped to its essentials – but with the flexibility to allows users to customise everything via the Windows App Store.
Should you upgrade?
Improved features, better authentication and improved user protection are just some of the reasons why a switch to Windows 11 could be a better idea for your business. It really is a question each business should consider on an individual basis. If your business places a great value on Microsoft Teams, then the increased integration of Teams within the new OS it may make it worth upgrading.
Quicker, smaller security updates are also a strong reason to upgrade. The ability Windows 11 has to update itself in the background, causing less time in between downloads, will be a benefit to users as they spend less of their own time updating their devices.
Things to Consider
The minimum hardware requirements for installing Windows 11 on a PC include:
- Windows 11 requires a TRM 2.0-compliant processor.
- Processor- 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
- Storage – 64 GB or larger free storage space
- Minimum Windows 11 4GB RAM to run
To see full requirements click here
Ultimately, Windows 11 has its benefits, yet there are hardware requirements to consider too. Before making an upgrade decision, contact Smart IT and we’ll check you have the necessary hardware in place, and that your applications will remain supported. Find out how Smart IT can help with your Windows 11 upgrade in Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, Durham, and Darlington get in touch today.
