Windows 11 was released on October 5th and represents Microsoft’s latest effort to modernize its ubiquitious operating system. Not only does it include several new security features, refreshed icons, and an updated interface, but it also has some very cool new tech! New PCs will already come bundled with Windows 11… The question is, should you upgrade your current Windows 10 PC?
The answer of course, (if you’ve been paying attention to these newsletters) is a resounding NO. Unless there’s a real need for something that Windows 10 doesn’t offer, it’s a smarter move to wait a few weeks before upgrading to Windows 11. Pretty much every technology company, including Samsung, Apple, Microsoft, etc, has in the past released updates that broke existing (and previously working) phones, tablets, and PCs. RCI always recommends letting other people test out new patches and updates, regardless of the vendor, before installing them on your own production equipment.
Now don’t let that scare you off from updating (eventually). Microsoft has vowed that Windows 10 wil be supported for at least the next 5 years, so there’s no rush. But Windows 11 represents the future of Microsoft based PCs and eventually we’re all going to have to embrace it. Here are few improvements it represents:
- Windows 11 will run Android apps* through the Amazon Appstore. While it won’t run every app, most of the popular apps will be supported (Disney+, TikTok, Netflix, Pinterest, etc). (*Not available at launch)
- You’ll now have the options to add widgets to the start menu, great for things that you need to glance at occassionally but don’t want on your screen all of the time.
- Built in support for virtual desktops. If you tend to run your programs in clusters, or you have multiple roles at work, virtual desktops are a great way to separate them out. You can have a “work” desktop with Outlook, Excel, Quickbooks and other line of business software running. Then have a separate “personal” desktop with Netflix and Bejeweled that you can switch to at lunch.
- Increased security via TPM. Most newer PCs include a Trusted Platform Module that helps keep your PC secure. Older PCs won’t have this, which is part of why only 8th gen Intel chips (or newer) are scheduled to be supported under Windows 11. But it’s good news that Microsoft has chosen to make the TPM required to run Windows 11!
The Windows 11 update rollout will be phased, so don’t expect to be able to upgrade right away (not that you would want to, right?). But if you have questions related to Windows 11 or need help before or after the upgrade, we’ll be happy to assist you!