The full release of Windows 11 is finally here. With it comes many crucial updates to existing settings, programs, and desktop layout. So, what exactly does this new version have in store for users? Let’s take a look.
Windows 11 Release: New Features
There are many new features on Windows 11, including Microsoft Teams updates, changes to the Start menu, and the ability to run and download Android apps on a Windows PC. In addition, the software itself looks similar to the Mac design and is clean and slick. The aesthetic of Windows 11 features a streamlined new design with pastel colors, rounded corners, and a new startup sound. The Windows Start menu has moved from the bottom left of the screen to the middle, with app icons arranged in the center next to it.
The aim of Windows 11 is to streamline your computer and help you be more productive on your tablet, laptop, or PC.
Android Apps
The first feature that we’ve been waiting for is the ability to use Android apps. To find these, you’ll need to download Amazon’s Appstore, and then from there, you’ll be able to download the new Microsoft Store. There are almost half a million apps available for you to download. These include popular ones like TikTok, Disney Plus, Uber, Pinterest, and Netflix. Not every app in the Google Play Store will be available, however.
Widgets
Widgets will be available on the Windows 11 interface. These are a customizable AI-powered feed that will show your to-do list, recent photos, the news and weather, and your calendar. Widgets are easily accessible through the redesigned taskbar. When they slide out, you can then expand them to take up the whole screen.
Microsoft Teams Updates
Great news for those using Microsoft Teams; this will now be built directly into the Windows 11 operating system, making accessing it much more straightforward. In addition, Teams will be in the taskbar. Overall, Windows 11 makes the Microsoft Office suite of tools even easier to use.
Virtual Desktops
With Windows 11, you’ll be able to create different virtual desktops. This access means, for the various parts of your life, whether that’s home, school, or gaming, you’ll have a specific desktop. In addition, it will be effortless to switch between your different desktops. You can use this feature to separate departments and workflows. For example, you can dedicate one entire desktop to email and internal company communication, while another could focus on Word documents or Excel spreadsheets.
Snap Layouts
Another nice feature of Windows 11 is the new snap layouts. When you have lots of open windows, you’ll be able to arrange them in different configurations on your screen. Snap layouts will be accessible from the top of each window in between the minimize button and the X. It will appear as a square, and you’ll see the various layout options when you click it.
With tons of options to snap your programs into different grids, you’ll be able to switch quickly and easily with one simple click.
Windows 11 Release: HIPAA Compliance
Under HIPAA Security Rules (specifically Rule 45 C.F.R.164.308 (a)(5)(ii)(B)), organizations must implement security procedures to detect, guard against, and report malicious software. Organizations won’t meet HIPAA compliance requirements if they continue to use software that is no longer supported.
For users who need to be HIPPA compliant, Windows 11 is a great solution. Unfortunately, like previous versions of Windows, there will eventually be an end to the support available for Windows 10. However, since HIPAA requirements mean that software must be up-to-date, Windows 11 means you can rest assured that your software will meet your needs.
Since compatible machines running Windows 10 will be able to download Windows 11 as a free update, it’s a no-brainer. If you’re using an older version of Windows, it’s now the time to upgrade. Additionally, it’s a good idea to upgrade to Windows 10 before the release of Windows 11, which means you’ll then get the Windows 11 upgrade for free.
For healthcare businesses, violating HIPAA rules can lead to bankruptcy. Not only that, but if you knowingly commit a violation of HIPAA, you risk facing jail time.
Windows 11 Release: Key Takeaways
There are so many positives to Windows 11. Visually, you’ll notice a difference right away, but it’s the behind-the-scenes updates that set it apart.
It doesn’t matter whether you want to upgrade to Windows 11 or not. However, with support ending for Windows 10 and security rules requiring up-to-date software, we need to be prepared to run our computers on Windows 11. Contact us today to learn how to make Windows 11 work for your business!
About Cinch I.T.
Since 2004, Cinch I.T. has been providing customer-focused I.T. services for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need on-site support or a reliable cloud computing office, our computer support offers the fastest and friendliest service in the industry. Cinch is one of the nation’s fastest-growing I.T. support franchises with 10 locations and counting. To learn more about our history as a computer support service provider, visit cinchit.com. For more information about I.T. franchise opportunities, visit cinchfranchise.com.
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