Microsoft recently released Windows 11, with PCs and laptops gradually phasing in the new operating system.
Now that it’s all up and running, you, as an employer, might be wondering about the difference between Windows 11 vs Windows 10. Should you upgrade, or does it make more sense to stick with the system you already know?
This blog focuses on the essential differences between Windows 11 vs Windows 10 and the impact this will have on your staff and your business.
Windows 11 vs Windows 10 interface
The most evident difference between Windows 11 and Windows 10 is the new desktop interface. When your compatible device loads up, you’ll find an obviously Mac-inspired design, with the icons and Windows button in the centre.
Whatever you think of the new layout, it’s undoubtedly more aesthetically focused, with designers creating a taskbar and Start menu much friendlier towards tablets than older versions.
If you or your employees prefer, they can move the Start menu and taskbar buttons back to the left. Go to ‘Personalisation’, ‘Taskbar’, and change ‘Taskbar alignment’ to ‘Left’.
Improved performance
Windows 11 boasts faster processing times vs Windows 10, better performance and increased battery life. On top of all these, base levels of cybersecurity are much improved. For any ICT user, that’s an invaluable change. They will allow you and your employees to focus more on the core aspects of your business.
New integrations
Windows 11 is fully integrated with Android apps. You can now download them in the Microsoft Store. This is yet another feature bridging the gap between mobile devices (most notably, tablets) and laptops and PCs. On this note, tablets should now be easier to use with Windows 11. The design team has made several changes, such as increasing the spaces between the taskbar icons.
Microsoft Teams has also had a relatively significant upgrade and is now directly integrated with the Windows 11 taskbar. It’s much easier to access, meaning your staff always have a quick and easy reminder to join Teams (if you use it).
Multiple virtual desktops
While Macs have had this feature for a while, Windows devices never quite caught on – not effectively, at least. Virtual desktops allow you to have multiple versions. For example, you might have one for work and one for personal use. Depending on your business’s nature, you could even have a different desktop for Production, Sales, Accounts, HR, etc.
Plug-in monitor display transition improvement
If your staff regularly use a combination of laptops and plug-in monitors, they might be familiar with the old frustrations of the display shifting all the applications around whenever they plugged in/out from an external screen.
Compared to Windows 10, Windows 11 offers a much more seamless user experience. When employees use a cable to attach to their monitor, they can now expect windows to remain pretty much as they were. This is all accomplished through the new ‘Snap Groups’ and ‘Snap Layouts’ features.
Should your business switch from Windows 10 to Windows 11?
Our opinion on the Windows 11 vs Windows 10 debate is (and always has been) to upgrade as soon as realistically possible. We know that not every business is in an immediate position to do so. Still, the new operating system is free and offers a wealth of improvements.
Before switching to Windows 11, it’s vital to devise a strategy to minimise interruptions to your staffs’ workflow. Having the proper hardware in place is crucial – Windows 11 isn’t compatible with older devices. Check out the requirements here.
If you need some help with upgrading to Windows 11, we’ll be delighted to help. Vantage 365 is an independent ICT consultancy based in the West Midlands. It’s our ambition to help you futureproof your business through IT by building long-lasting, easy-to-upgrade Microsoft 365 systems. We’ll work by your side to create a well-thought-out, jargon-free plan to make the change to Windows 11 and improve your productivity along the way.
Could your organisation benefit from a bit of specialist help? We’d love to hear from you. Get in touch by emailing hello@vantage365.co.uk, and we’ll get straight back to you. If you’d rather speak with one of us on the phone, you can reach us on 01384 593720.
We look forward to hearing from you and helping your business and staff thrive.