Microsoft recently announced the upcoming release of Windows 11. It has been over 6 years since a full, numbered release of Windows and there are several improvements to both the front and back-end of the Windows platform coming in the latest version.
When Will Windows 11 Be Available?
The current expected release date for the full public release of Windows 11 is 5th October 2021.
If you are a customer of Carden IT Services, you should not attempt to update to your operating system to Windows 11 without first consulting with us. Our engineers will be conducting tests on Windows 11 and ensuring it is compatible with all the software that our customers rely on before we update their machines. Our customer account managers will be in contact regarding a timeframe for updates once Windows 11 has been released to the public.
How Can I Get Windows 11?
Windows 11 is currently in beta and being tested by early users. At Carden IT, we are also trying it out ourselves and ensuring our team is fully familiarised with it before it launches. We would advise against updating your operating system until Windows 11 is out of its beta phase. If you are one of Carden IT Services’ support clients, speak with your account manager and they will arrange for your compatible machines to be upgraded for you once Windows 11 is released and our engineers are satisfied that it will be compatible with the software your business uses.
Will It Be Free To Upgrade If I Already Have Windows 10?
Yes, so long as the machine you are currently running Windows 10 on meets the minimum specifications for Windows 11, Microsoft will not charge you to upgrade. Microsoft has also promised that Windows 11 will be supported with free upgrades until at least October 2025.
What Will The New Features Be In Windows 11?
- Smoother, Cleaner Interface
Multiple processes have been streamlined and the ease of use will improve in general when it comes to finding the apps and files you use every day. Early impressions are that this is more akin to an Apple interface, with softer colours, rounded corners, and a centred start bar. - Microsoft Teams Integration
Microsoft continues to make Teams the centre of the Windows experience. In Windows 11, Teams will be redesigned and incorporated directly into the Taskbar, where it will act as the hub for Microsoft Office. - Improved Virtual Desktop Support
Windows 11 will allow users to set up virtual desktops in a manner more akin to MacOS, allowing you to instantly switch between different desktops. This is particularly useful for team members who operate in distinct roles simultaneously, as they can have different virtual desktops for different job roles. - Windows 11 is More Secure
Cybersecurity has had a major overhaul in Windows 11, making sure the world’s most popular operating system has the protection it needs. One of the biggest changes which makes Windows 11 more secure is the requirement for all machines running the new operating system to have TPM chip. Most PCs sold after 2017 meet this requirement. TPM is short for “Trusted Platform Module” and a TPM chip is located on your system’s motherboard and stores your encrypted private key for services like BitLocker. - Run Android Apps on Windows
Windows 11 will support Android apps running on Windows for the first time. While not every app will be available, Microsoft is promising Windows 11 will launch with support for over 500,000 Android apps.
Carden IT Services’ customers will be contacted by their account manager who will give them a time-frame for upgrading their machines as well as letting them know which of their devices will be compatible. If you are not yet one of our customers and would like more information about how managed IT services can help improve your business, save you money and make your network more secure, speak to our team today.
