What is Windows 11?
Windows 11 is Microsoft’s newest major version in its operating system. It is it is the follow-up to Windows 10. The OS has a completely new but modernized interface that is that is designed to boost productivity and inspire creativity.
Although this March 2022 Windows 11 Patch is not considered an “feature update” to the operating system by Microsoft however, the patch did include some unannounced new features. For instance, if you use Windows 11 with Widgets turned on, you’ll notice an updated icon in the left-hand corner on your desktop. It will display a overview of your regional weather forecast. Microsoft also changed the look of Notepad and changed the name of its Groove multimedia player.
As of May 2024 Windows 11 was the 2nd most viewed Windows version that is used after Windows 10.
What’s what is the Windows 11 version timeline?
Version 21H2
The initial Version of Windows 11 was released to the general public in October 2021. The version, called 21H2 21H2 with the code name “Sun Valley,” was made available as a pre-release version to Windows Insiders on the channel for development in June of 2021. In the course of its duration, Windows 11 version 21H2 was patched and updated over 2 dozen times.
Version 22H2
It was the Windows 11 2022 Update, frequently referred to by the name 22H2 as well as codenamed “Sun Valley 2,” was the first major update for Windows 11. The first preview version Windows 11 22H2 was released to Windows Insiders on the Dev Channel on September 2 2021. The update started rolling out to the general public on September 20, 2022.
This Windows 11 2022 Update included numerous feature updates, improvements and enhancements. This included hypervisor-protected code integrity security and sync status of OneDrive visible on File Explorer, Windows Studio Effects and streamlining improvements to the future Windows 11 updates and patches. Since its launch, Windows 11 22H2 has been patched and upgraded numerous times.
Version 23H2
The Windows 11 2023 Update, commonly referred to as 23H2, was made available to all users of eligible computers on the 26th of September 2023. On September 20, 2023 Microsoft launched the latest Windows 11 update to eligible computers. It is known in the form of Windows 11 23H2, this most recent major update brings new applications, features as well as security protocol to Windows. These include Windows Copilot, File Explorer enhancements, Windows backup app, enhancements to the taskbar, a an improved volume mixer 7Zip and RAR support, and RGB personalization of peripherals.
Version 24H2
The Windows 11 24H2 Update was made available to the public on October. 1. A preview was released via Windows Insider Program Windows Insider Program to developers on February. 8 2024. Version 24H2 continues to receive updates. Administrators, this version comes with checkpoint cumulative updates, as well as a servicing model that will make accessing new features and security improvements more effective. The SMB encryption and signing protocols have been tweaked slightly in this version, and they have a few default settings for the Windows Firewall.
SEE Windows 11 24H2 allows the sudo command that temporarily grants administrator privileges to make it easier for users to test or repair scripts or programs.
What are the latest features included in Windows 11?
New Start layout
The new Start button in Windows 11, the newly centralized Start button utilizes Microsoft 365 and the cloud Microsoft 365 to show recent documents, regardless of operating system or gadget they’re earlier, which includes the Android or iOS device.
Snap Layouts, Snap Groups and Desktops
An exciting new feature included in Microsoft Windows 11 is the introduction of Snap Layouts, Snap Groups and Desktops. They provide the user a “powerful way to multitask and stay on top of what you need to get done,” according Microsoft’s press announcement. Thanks to the help of these Windows 11 features, users can arrange their windows and maximize the screen’s real estate to create a more appealing design ( Figure A). Users can design and personalize distinct desktops for every aspect of their lives — like a work-related one and another that is for use at home.
Chat with Microsoft Teams Microsoft Teams
The new version of Windows 11, Microsoft integrates Chat in Microsoft Teams to the taskbar, allowing users can connect instantly via chat, text or voice to their personal contacts, regardless of what device or platform is being utilized across Microsoft Windows, Android or iOS. With Microsoft Teams, users can immediately mute and begin presentations directly from the taskbar of the latest OS.
Lockscreen Widgets
Windows 11’s latest Widgets provide a personalised feed that is powered by artificial intelligence in conjunction with Microsoft Edge. Instead of using their mobile to check the news and weather information Users can now access the Windows 11 desktop to see an identically curated display ( Figure B). Widgets offer new ways to use Windows 11 to deliver personalized content to publishers and creators.
Microsoft Store overhaul
The Microsoft Store has received an overhaul that has seen users now have one secure site for content and apps to create, watch play, work, and learn. According to Microsoft it is it is now the Store “has been revamped for speed and features an entirely new look that’s attractive and easy to navigate. We’ll not only bring users more applications than we have ever We’re making all content – including games, apps movies, shows and moreeasy to find and discover through the help of curated tales and collection.”
The most popular third-party and first-party applications like Microsoft Teams, Visual Studio, Disney+, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom and Canva are also available into Microsoft Store. Microsoft Store.
Android apps
Through its collaboration through its partnership with Amazon and Intel Microsoft Store, which is a partnership between Intel and Amazon Microsoft Store lets users find Android apps that are available for download through Amazon’s Amazon Appstore. Microsoft allows the developers as well as independent software developers to add apps to in the Microsoft Store, no matter which app frameworks are employed to develop the apps.
What are the new features included in Windows 11 22H2?
The first major content update called Windows 11 22H2, added numerous new applications and features to the operating system.
For users in the enterprise Windows 11 22H2 has improved the File Explore features to allow integration of OneDrive Status, which enhances team collaboration and co-operation. It also included the new feature Windows Studio Effects, which will enhance virtual meetings using AI-powered processing power.
At the level of the user, Windows 11 22H2 added new features for quality-of-life, including voice-activated navigation Start Menu feature improvements along with additional themes for personalization, and the Clipchamp application. In addition, Windows 11 22H2 added new live captioning options to automatically record virtual meetings.
What are the latest features that come with Windows 11 23H2?
The most recent significant content update, referred to by the name of Windows 11 23H2, adds numerous new features and applications to the operating system.
The most notable feature that is included in Windows 11 23H2 Update is the inclusion to Windows Copilot, which integrates an on-demand self-learning AI option directly within the operating system. Windows Copilot will be accessible to users who work using Mail, Paint, Notepad as well as any other Windows software.
Windows 11 23H2 comes with the frequently requested ability to manage RGB peripherals directly through Windows settings, instead of using third-party software and applications. It also supports a variety of commonly used open-source archive protocols, such as 7-Zip and RAR. The 23H2 update also includes quality-of-life enhancements for Windows File Explorer and the taskbar.
What are the new features included in Windows 24H2?
The update for October 2024, Windows 24H2, brings new features like live captions, image creation and editing with Microsoft Photos and Paint to Copilotand AI-powered PCs. Other noteworthy enhancements are Wi-Fi 7, support for the latest assistive hearing devices, as well as the ability to easily switch between personal and business accounts within Teams.
More information on security features with the latest the version 24H2 and other updates are available on Microsoft’s help.
Which AI functions have recently been added in Windows 11?
Microsoft has introduced a variety of features that are based on artificial intelligence in Windows 11 since its initial release, such as Live Captions, background noise removal during videoconferencing, autoframing of webcams and The Bing Chat chatbot in the search bar’s field.
Copilot
The year 2024 began, Microsoft made it clear that its coming Windows 11 PCs, including the Surface line that will be available through Spring 2024, will feature the Copilot key. The Copilot key allows users to access Microsoft’s artificial intelligence assistant Copilot that is included in Windows.
Copilot helps with a range of tasks like creating presentations using documents and editing photos, composing meetings and emails, regulating the settings of your computer, like turning on battery savers and gaining access to information from various applications and platforms.
Recall
Recall which was announced during Microsoft Build on May 20 in 2024, is an AI-powered feature that lets users efficiently and easily look through their device’s past by asking natural language questions. While it’s included in Windows 11, it will only be compatible with Copilot+ PCs that have built-in neural processing units.
Recall runs locally and records every action the computer performed such as web browsing creating files, web browsing and voice chats, meaning everything the user comes to by using the PC may be accessed. Recall integrates in Timeline — a Windows feature that displays active apps as well as past actions — to provide users a simple and easy-to-use interface for scrolling.
Launch of the Recall feature was set back June following the Windows community raised numerous security issues. So, Copilot+ PCs launched without the timeline or natural-language search feature. Recall came into its own in October, and came out in version 24H2 however, users must choose to join the feature rather than choosing to opt out.
What should developers be aware of about Windows 11?
PWABuilder3
Windows 11 features the new PWABuilder3 which allows developers to create an PWA through their web apps in a matter of minutes. WebView2 runtime is available in Windows 11, which makes it simpler to make use of the web platform it provides for a secure method to create hybrid web applications. Services such as Windows Terminal and the new Microsoft Edge DevTools may still be used, because they’re included in Windows 11.
Windows App SDK
Launched on March 29, 2021 The Windows App SDK, previously called Project Reunion, makes it simpler to incorporate Windows 11 features into apps however, it also lets developers get in touch with over a billion people using Windows 10.
Windows on ARM
Developers can create applications running natively on Windows on ARM with the latest emulator for ARM64 Compatible ABI. With ARM64EC software, native ARM and emulated x64 code can be integrated within the same procedure or module. This allows developers to make apps more efficient to run on Windows using ARM -even if their app contains x64 dependencies, or loads plugins that do not control.
WinUI3
For a fresh look for apps developers can utilize WinUI3 with Windows 11, which offers built-in UI improvements like round geometry, updated iconography along with new typography, exciting micro-interactions such as Lottie animation and a fresh color palette. The Snap layouts feature can help to maximize productivity with Windows 11.
Reunion Windowing
Reunion Windowing lets developers effortlessly manage and design apps with ease and create windows. This feature is compatible with existing app codes, and simplifies routine operations, and adds new features to desktop applications such as Light-Dismiss Behavior and Picture-In-Picture mode, and more easy titlebar customization.
Microsoft Store access to commerce
With the significant changes with respect to Microsoft Store, Microsoft is making steps to open up more opportunities for creators and developers. Microsoft lets the developers as well as independent software developers to promote their applications on the platform, regardless of whether the app is built using Win32, Progressive Web App, Universal Windows App or any other app framework which means they are able to be more accessible and attract a wider public.
The rules for revenue share have been changed, too. Developers can now upload their own apps that are not gaming-related into the Microsoft Store through their own platform for commerce and keep all the profits -and Microsoft does not take any of it. Developers are still able to use Microsoft’s commerce platform with competitive revenue shares of 15 percent for apps and 12 percent for games.
Does Windows 11 free?
Windows 11 is available through an upgrade that is free to qualified Windows 10 PCs and on new computers as of October 5 2021. To determine whether you Windows 10 PC is eligible to upgrade for free for Windows 11, download the PC Health Check app.
Get your team trained and become an Windows 11 power user with The Essential Windows 11 Course and The Ultimate Windows 11 Training Video Course from TechRepublic Academy.
How can I upgrade my computer to Windows 11?
Microsoft Windows 11 is available as a general release for the general public. If your personal PC has the required prerequisites and includes the installation or upgrade to Windows 10 1909 or later and you wish to make the switch into Windows 11 by navigating to the Update and security settings page.
Users can also avail from Windows 11 Installation Assistant. Windows 11 Installation Assistant to skip Windows 10 Update & Security screen. Windows 10 Update & Security screen and upgrade to Windows 11 directly.
How do you install Windows 11 without a Microsoft Account?
Microsoft requires that users login to an account with a free Microsoft account in order to start downloading and installing Windows 11; however, this process is averted by creating local accounts -that is i.e. one which is only applicable to the computer and doesn’t require an internet connection in the process of setting up.
These steps will help you set up a local account, and then start installing Windows 11.
- Continue through the Windows 11 installation process until you see”Let’s Connect you to a Network box.
- Press Shift + F10 to open a command prompt. Type “OOBE\BYPASSNRO” and press enter. The PC will restart.
- Start the installation process again. If you get to the “Let’s Connect You to A Network box select I don’t have Internet and then click Continue with limited setup.
Create a local user account when asked to do so, and then complete the installation. You will be able to connect to the internet after the installation is complete.
What is the reason my computer isn’t suitable to run Windows 11?
In order to install Windows 11, your PC must meet any system requirements might not be in place at the moment. These include:
- Processing: 1GHz or faster with two or more cores in an appropriate 64-bit processor (or Systems on a Chip.
- RAM: 4GB.
- Storage: 64GB or larger storage device.
- Firmware for the system: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
- Graphics Card: It is compatible with DirectX 12 or later and WDDM 2.0 driver.
- Display HD (720p) display that is more than nine inches diagonally. eight bits for each color channel.
- Internet connectivity: Windows 11 Home edition requires internet connection and an Microsoft account for the device initial setup. The process of switching a device from Windows 11 Home in S mode requires internet connectivity.
What are the requirements for specific features in Windows 11?
Certain features of Windows 11 have increased requirements over those mentioned above. Here are additional information on the requirements for key features as per Microsoft.
- Support for 5G: Requires a 5G-capable modem.
- Automatic HDR: Requires an HDR monitor.
- BitLocker to Go It requires the use of a USB flash drive (available in Windows Pro and above editions).
- Client Hyper-V It requires a computer equipped with second-level capability for address translation (available on Windows Pro and above editions).
- Cortana It requires a speaker and microphone. It’s currently accessible in Windows 11 for Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, the U.K. and the U.S.
- DirectStorage It requires an NVMe SSD in order to store and play games using the standard NVM Express controller driver, and a DirectX12 GPU that supports Shader Model 6.0 support.
- DirectX 12 Ultimate Supported graphics chips and games.
- presence: It requires a device capable of detecting the distance of a human from the device or the intention to engage with device.
- Intelligent Video Conferencing It requires a video camera with microphone, speaker and audio output.
- Multi-Voice Assistant (MVA): It requires a speaker and microphone.
- Snap The three-column design requires screens that are in the range of 1920 effective pixels or more in size.
- Mute and unmute from the Taskbar Video camera required with microphone, as well as speaker for audio output.
- Spatial sound: Does not require hardware support and requires software.
- Teams requires a video camera with microphone, speaker and audio output.
- Touch It requires a monitor or screen that can support multi-touch.
- 2-factor verification: Requires use of PIN or biometric (fingerprint reader or an illuminated infrared camera) or a mobile that has wi-fi or Bluetooth capabilities.
- Vocal Typing This requires an PC equipped with microphone.
- “Wake On Voice Requires a Modern Standby Power Model and a microphone.
- Wi-Fi6E Needs the latest WLAN IHV hardware, driver and an AP with Wi-Fi 6E capability or router.
- Windows Hello It requires a camera that is configured to use near-infrared imaging or a fingerprint reader to enable biometric authentication. Devices that do not have biometric sensors are able to make use of Windows Hello with a PIN or a portable Microsoft compatible security keys.
- Windows Projection It requires a display adapter which can support Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) 2.0 and an adapter for Wi-Fi that can support Wi-Fi Direct.
Is Windows 11 worth it?
Based on Microsoft’s support plan for the moment, Windows 10 will lose support for any future feature or update security on Oct. 14 2025. At that point, every company, no matter how big will be at a high risk of being held liable for using Windows 10. In this regard, moving the operating system to Windows 11 is obviously necessary and well worth the effort and time.
Windows 11 is designed to benefit from the most recent technology in both hardware and software security protocols which Windows 10 is not able to do. The security measures will assist the operating system to fight from various cyber-attacks and malware like ransomware and software viruses. Since Windows 11 is a free upgrade from Windows 10, for most people and businesses, there’s an excuse not to upgrade.
