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19. November 2023

Windows 11 – Innovations, Benefits, Alternatives

Windows 11 is Microsoft’s latest operating system. But would you have guessed that it’s already been two years since its launch? It certainly doesn’t feel that long. Because even today, many companies remain uncertain about what’s actually new in Windows 11. That’s why we’re giving you a compact overview of the most important differences to the previous version on this page.

So, the burning question is: Is it worthwhile to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11? Which version suits your company best? Of course, this can only be answered individually. We can’t make the decision for you – but we can provide you with information and offers to make your choice easier.

The Advantages of Windows 11

When Microsoft introduced its new operating system in 2021, initial demand was somewhat restrained. This was largely attributed to the enduring popularity of the previous version: Windows 10 had become such a mature and widely adopted operating system that users saw little incentive for change. Additionally, concerns about heightened hardware requirements and compatibility issues played a role. However, much has evolved since then! Microsoft has continued to refine Windows 11, resulting in a landscape today where there are more compelling reasons to consider an upgrade than there were two years ago.

  • Security: Microsoft touts its current operating system as “the most secure Windows ever,” a claim that is both commendable and necessary given the global surge in cybercrime. The prevailing security principle adheres to “trust no one”: apps and programmes are initially deemed untrustworthy until they can demonstrate their reliability. Windows 11 incorporates a host of security features, including Virtualisation-Based Security (VBS), which utilises virtualisation to separate running processes and programmes from the core operating system. This isolation prevents any potential access or manipulation of the Windows core itself.
  • Performance: Windows 11, on the whole, delivers improved performance. This assertion is corroborated by tests and benchmarks conducted by IT trade publications and respected technology bloggers. While there are a few exceptions where the differences from Windows 10 are marginal or the predecessor performs slightly better, the general consensus leans towards Windows 11 offering superior performance. It’s worth noting that this enhanced performance might be linked to the heightened hardware requirements of the new operating system—indicating that computers are becoming more contemporary and faster. Furthermore, Microsoft has revamped resource management; for instance, foreground programmes now receive higher priority, ensuring smoother operation.
  • New Features: Windows 11 boasts several features not found in its predecessor, Windows 10. In the information box below, we highlight some of these novel functionalities. Looking ahead, Windows 11 is set to receive ongoing functional enhancements and feature updates, whereas its predecessor will not share in these future developments. In April of this year, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 “22H2” will remain in its current state, with only security updates in the pipeline.
  • Exclusive Apps: Some new Microsoft applications are exclusively available for Windows 11, such as the new Windows Media Player. These apps cannot be installed on Windows 10, making them unique to the newer operating system.

New Features in Windows 11

Microsoft has integrated a plethora of enhancements and novel features into its latest operating system. We present six of them as examples:

1. Window Management
Thanks to the new snap functions, windows can be arranged more neatly with a single click. Hover your mouse pointer over the button to maximise a window and select the appropriate layout. It’s even faster with the shortcut “Windows key” + “Z”.

4. Screen Recordings
The snipping tool can do more than create screenshots; it can also record videos. Pressing “Windows key” + “G” takes you to the convenient recording mode.

2. Tabs in Explorer
When you have multiple file folders open simultaneously, you no longer need to worry about losing your way in a sea of windows. The practical tab function has been introduced for the file explorer. Similar to a web browser, open folders can now be displayed as “tabs”.

5. Enhanced Energy Efficiency
A new efficiency mode manages the priority of background processes, potentially extending the battery life of mobile devices. Additionally, this mode aims to reduce heat generation and fan noise.

3. Voice Input Instead of Typing
With speech recognition, you can effortlessly convert speech into text anytime you need. Simply press the “Windows key” + “H” and give your fingers a respite from typing. This function is automatically activated and ready for immediate use.

6. Smaller Update Packages
The update packages are approximately 40% smaller than before. This means less data needs to be downloaded, conserving resources and requiring less server capacity. It also benefits users with limited bandwidth.

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Windows 10: Never Change a Winning System?

Is Windows 11 the optimal choice for every company? Providing a blanket “yes” would be misleading. Even though Microsoft itself now exclusively offers Windows 11 as the new option for new purchases, the used software market ensures that you can still make the best choice for your specific needs. With us, you can still acquire licenses for Windows 10. When might this be a sensible choice? Here are some arguments:

  • Compatibility: If your company relies on specific software applications or in-house developments that function flawlessly on Windows 10, adhering to the age-old adage, “Never change a winning system,” might be prudent. At least as long as Windows 10 continues to receive security updates and patches, there’s no immediate urgency to switch. Support for Windows 10 is set to continue until October 2025. However, if you are contemplating an upgrade to Windows 11, it’s essential to thoroughly assess its compatibility with your existing software landscape.
  • Hardware Requirements: Windows 11 isn’t compatible with all (older) computers. Nonetheless, you shouldn’t hastily discard devices that are otherwise fully functional and offer satisfactory performance for your company’s needs. Doing so would be neither cost-effective nor environmentally responsible.
  • Familiarity: Even end-users who aren’t particularly tech-savvy have become accustomed to Windows 10. In contrast, Windows 11 may require some adjustment time. This is understandable, as the user interface has undergone significant changes in certain areas. It’s common, after an upgrade, to have to reconfigure some settings. If your company’s IT department is currently stretched thin and unable to address every user query immediately, it may be prudent to stick with the tried-and-tested for the time being.

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