Windows 11 was officially released in October 2021. The new operating system is now available to anyone who has previously used Microsoft software products. Many users are concerned about whether to switch to Windows 11. In this review, we will discuss the main features of the new operating system so that you can assess its advantages and disadvantages.
System Requirements
Compared to earlier versions of the OS, Windows 11 is more demanding on the computer. Initially, developers limited the ability to install it on outdated computers. After the presentation, it became known that the OS can only be installed on computers equipped with the cryptographic module TPM 2.0. Requirements for the CPU and memory capacity of the device have also been tightened. The system requirements are as follows:
- RAM: at least 4 GB;
- Hard disk space: at least 64 GB;
- Processor: at least 2 computing cores (minimum 1 GHz each);
- Graphics processor compatible with Direct 12 and WDDM 2.0 driver;
- Display: at least 8 bits for each color channel, resolution – at least 720p.
Installation also requires a Microsoft account. The update can only be performed if you have a licensed Windows 10. It is not possible to switch directly from 7 or 8 to 11.
Visual Design: Main Changes
The innovations primarily affected the external design of the system. Windows 11 received a major redesign, which favorably distinguishes the OS from earlier versions. There are no global changes to the user interface, but the design update is immediately noticeable. Developers aimed to bring it closer to the interface of mobile devices.
One of the most noticeable changes is the updated “Start” menu. It is now pinned in the middle of the desktop, but if necessary, it can be moved to its usual place – the left corner of the screen.
In Windows 11, “live” tiles were abandoned. Instead, the “Start” menu displays a list of applications, recently used files, and documents – similar to Timeline in Windows 10.
Design changes are also noticeable when using system tools. For example, in the explorer, you can see that the corners of the windows have become rounded, and the styles of icons and the overall design have been updated.
Changes are noticeable when launching the context menu. Some commands, such as the familiar Copy/Paste, have disappeared. Visually, the system looks more attractive, but it is less familiar in terms of functionality. For example, to use some options, the user needs to click twice, not once. The tool for working with multiple desktops has also undergone changes.
To display news content, Windows 11 has been supplemented with a widget panel. Users have wide personalization options. The system automatically selects content based on the owner’s preferences and interests.
Animated effects look particularly attractive. All transitions work smoothly, making the interface look attractive and aesthetic.
Functional Capabilities
Windows 11 has received a number of functional changes. They are designed to improve the quality of the system, ensure good optimization, and simplify user interaction with the computer. There are quite a few innovations, let’s consider the main ones.
- Updated taskbar. Like the “Start” menu, it is located in the middle of the desktop. The layout of the panel is the same as in Windows 10. Pinned applications can be hidden. The context menu is absent, and pinned shortcuts cannot be moved. Personalization options are simplified.
- Windows Search. The standard search tool has changed significantly. The main functional capabilities and tools have remained the same. But the visual interface is updated. A key feature of Windows 11 is search hints. Recent queries are displayed in the window. Such a feature is not present in Windows 10. The search itself is performed much faster.
- Snap Groups. In Windows 11, the function of grouping and pinning application windows has been improved. In previous OS versions, it was necessary to drag the window to a corner or use hotkeys. In the updated system, it is enough to hover the cursor and click the “Expand” command. A window with window grouping templates will appear on the screen. The number of placement options varies from 4 to 6 and depends on the display resolution.
- Notifications. The panel has undergone changes. In the new version, when receiving a notification, the number of alerts is displayed. The notification window is combined with the calendar and auxiliary tools. From a productivity point of view, such a solution does not always seem convenient.
- Power settings. Power management has changed significantly compared to Windows 10. It is no longer possible to change the power scheme using a slider as in older OS versions. However, several new configurations have appeared, allowing you to optimize energy consumption and ensure optimal performance. A very useful feature for laptop owners with low autonomy.
As you can see, the main innovations are largely related to changes in the user interface. However, in practice, Windows 11 differs from its predecessors in other features as well.
Service and Integration Windows 11
There are almost no global innovations in this regard. However, there are changes that should be noted.
First of all, it is the abandonment of Cortana. Windows 11 supports the voice assistant only as a separate application that can be installed from the Microsoft Store. By default, this tool is not provided in the system.
Also, in Windows 11, the work of the Windows Hello service has been improved. This tool is responsible for secure access to the computer. It uses the owner’s biometric data, providing protection against hacking. You can set up Windows Hello through the system settings section.
In the new operating system, access to Windows 365 has been simplified. Also, the corporate messenger Microsoft Teams has been integrated into the OS. Access to the program is automatically available from the taskbar. It is enough to log into your account to start making calls or sending messages.
The system has integrated Power Automate. This tool allows you to automate individual repetitive processes. Users have the opportunity to create flows using a collection of pre-created actions. The service allows you to automate the work of almost any Microsoft application, as well as some other manufacturers. The only point is that minimal programming skills and algorithm creation are required.
The system also includes such applications and services:
- Microsoft Edge browser (used by default);
- Windows Terminal – a product that combines the functions of Power Shell and Azure Cloud Shell;
- Windows Autopilot – a service for configuring new devices.
It should be noted that all previously installed applications and programs are available in the new system. Unlike Windows 10, there are no compatibility issues after the update.
Performance Level
One of the main advantages of Windows 11 is high performance. Unlike previous versions, the system is capable of providing maximum speed and stable operation of applications, including those demanding on PC hardware components.
The nuance is that Windows 11 is compatible only with new generation processors. They are quite fast themselves. The OS only optimizes the operation of the computer in such a way as to improve the quality of interaction of PC components.
The system automatically sends background processes to sleep mode. This reduces the load on the processor and frees up RAM. Hardware resources are used to run active applications. As a result, this provides an increased level of speed and responsiveness to commands. It also positively affects autonomy if we are talking about laptops and tablet computers.
Windows 11 users note stable operation of network interfaces. Ports and connectors turn on faster, and the connection proceeds without interruptions. This is especially relevant for those who are accustomed to using wireless accessories: mice, keyboards, stereo headsets, and other equipment.
One of the key features of the new operating system is the direct interaction of the GPU and memory, bypassing the central processor. Thanks to this, the speed of work is significantly increased, and the load on the CPU is reduced. A similar technology is available on Xbox Series consoles.
It should be noted that high performance is guaranteed only on computers compatible with the recommended system requirements. Installing on PCs with minimal compatibility will obviously result in worse performance.
New Microsoft Store
Windows 11 has received an updated app store. By the way, it will also soon be available in Windows 10. The Microsoft Store’s home page has been completely redesigned. The panel with favorite apps has become much larger, which can sometimes cause discomfort. If you are used to using the search bar, there will be no difficulties when visiting the store.
In addition to the design, animation effects have been worked out. They can be noticed when hovering over various elements of the page, for example, over a selection of recommended games. The standard options menu has disappeared, and you can go to the settings through the icon of your account or through the side panel located on the left.
It is worth noting that the Microsoft Store platform is gradually gaining popularity among developers. Therefore, you can find many interesting products from third-party manufacturers in the store.
Windows 11: Innovations for Gamers
One of the key changes was mentioned when describing the performance of Windows 11. The DirectStorage technology allows you to significantly increase the speed of games and demanding programs. For stable operation of this technology, an NVMe SSD type drive is required. In Windows 10, this function is also available, but it works much slower.
Another innovation is the Auto HDR system. It provides an extended dynamic range in old games. This positively affects the saturation and smoothness of the image, as well as color reproduction, brightness, and contrast of the picture.
Windows 11 has integrated the Xbox Game Pass service. It is used for cloud gaming and allows you to launch and play demanding games without installing them on a PC. Unfortunately, at the moment this service is not available in the territory of the CIS countries.
Conclusions:
The main innovations of Windows 10 concern design and user interface. Most of the familiar elements used to interact with the system have been reworked. It’s quite difficult to give an objective assessment of these innovations. Updated design is a matter of taste.
A number of changes have affected functionality. Windows 11 has introduced a range of new tools to make work more comfortable. The updated Explorer, context menu, and window grouping feature will surely appeal to those who strive to personalize their workspace.
The developers have integrated a number of services into the system. These include the Microsoft Teams messenger and the Windows Hello authentication system. The Edge browser remained almost the same. The new system has dispensed with the Cortana voice assistant and the Timeline tool.
Users have appreciated the performance and responsiveness of Windows 11. However, it’s important to understand that these advantages are only available to PC owners with good hardware. The system requirements of the new OS do not allow installation on outdated or weak PCs, which is one of the key drawbacks of this product.
