Microsoft Windows 11 review

Windows 11 is the latest operating system of Microsoft, released in October 2021. It features a redesigned user interface, improved performance, improved security, and new productivity tools. In this publication of blog, I'll review some of the top features and benefits of Windows 11, as well as some of the drawbacks and challenges.

User interface

One of the most notable changes in Windows 11 is the user interface. The Start menu, taskbar, and icons have been redesigned to look more modern and minimalist. The Start menu is now centered on the screen and displays pinned apps, recent files, and recommended content. The taskbar has also been simplified, with fewer icons and a new widgets button that opens a custom feed of news, weather, calendar, and other information. The icons have been updated to match the Fluent Design System, which aims to create a consistent and elegant visual language across all Microsoft products.

The user interface also supports more customization options such as themes, wallpapers, sounds, and accent colors. Users can also choose between light and dark modes, and adjust the size and spacing of icons and text. Additionally, Windows 11 introduces new layouts and snapshot groups, allowing users to easily organize multiple windows on the screen in different configurations. Users can also create virtual desktops for different tasks or projects and switch between them with a swipe or keyboard shortcut.

Performance

Windows 11 promises to deliver faster and smoother performance than its predecessor. According to Microsoft, Windows 11 has been optimized for speed, efficiency, and compatibility. It uses less memory, CPU, and battery than Windows 10 and supports faster startup and resume times. It also supports a wider range of hardware devices, including older PCs that meet the minimum system requirements.

One of the key features that improves performance is DirectStorage, which allows faster loading of games and applications that use large amounts of data. DirectStorage allows the GPU to directly access data on the SSD, bypassing the CPU and reducing latency. This feature requires an NVMe SSD and a DirectX 12 compatible GPU.

Another performance-enhancing feature is Auto HDR, which automatically improves the color and contrast of games that support high dynamic range (HDR). Auto HDR can make games look more realistic and immersive, without requiring any manual settings or adjustments. This feature requires an HDR compatible monitor.

Security

Windows 11 also offers enhanced security and privacy features that protect users from online threats and malware. One of the main security features is Windows Hello, which allows users to log into their devices using facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or a PIN code. Windows Hello uses biometric authentication to verify users' identities and encrypts their data using a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip.

Another security feature is Windows Defender Application Guard (WDAG), which isolates potentially insecure websites and files in a virtual container. WDAG prevents malware from accessing device resources or data and automatically deletes the container when the user closes the browser or application. WDAG requires a CPU that supports virtualization technology.

Productivity tools

Windows 11 also introduces new productivity tools that help users work more efficiently and collaboratively. One of these tools is Microsoft Teams, which integrates into the taskbar as a chat app. Users can use Teams to communicate with their contacts using text, voice, or video calls. They can also share files, screens or applications with their contacts during a call. Teams supports personal and work accounts, and syncs across devices.

Another productivity tool is Microsoft Edge, which is the default web browser in Windows 11. Edge has been updated to include new features like vertical tabs, collections, password monitor, and shopping assistant. Edge also supports web apps, which are websites that can be installed as apps on your device. Web applications can run faster and use fewer resources than regular applications.

Drawbacks and challenges

While Windows 11 offers many improvements and innovations over Windows 10, it also has some drawbacks and challenges that users may encounter. One of these drawbacks is the compatibility problem. Windows 11 has higher system requirements than Windows 10, which means some older PCs may not be able to run it. Users can check if their PC meets the requirements using Microsoft's PC Health Check app.

Another drawback is the learning curve. Windows 11 has changed some of the familiar features and settings of Windows 10, which may confuse or frustrate some users. For example, some users may not like the new Start menu or taskbar design, or may have trouble finding certain options or controls. Users can customize some aspects of the user interface to suit their preferences, but they may also need to adapt to some changes.

Conclusion

Windows 11 is a major update from Microsoft that brings a new look to the operating system. It offers several benefits in terms of performance, security, and productivity tools. However, it also has some drawbacks in terms of compatibility and usability. Users who are interested in upgrading to Windows 11 should weigh the pros and cons and check if their PC meets the requirements. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 users or as a purchase for new users.