Windows 11 Frequently Asked Questions

Windows 11 Frequently Asked Questions – Answers From top Canadian IT Support Professionals

Few things remain the same for long, especially where technology is concerned. To maintain their status in the Canadian business world, companies must keep up with the latest options. Advances in technology are essential to maintaining competitive status in your field of operation. But should your company always be the very first to adopt them? What if something goes wrong?

Windows 10 is no longer the latest Microsoft system for computer operation. Now that Windows 11 is on the scene, we’re being asked by businesses to address their uncertainties concerning this new operating system (OS).

Here, are answers to a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Windows 11. We will note the new system’s features and the implications of switching to Windows 11, for businesses. If you’re uncertain about making the change, or if you don’t know whether your current network can accommodate Windows 11, contact us.

What is Windows 11?

Microsoft Windows continues to evolve to better serve developing needs. Windows 10 originated in 2015. With the introduction this year of Windows 11, a few of the interface and menu alterations are notable, but the basics remain the same.

The transition from Windows 7 to Windows 8 was a fairly sweeping transformation. When switching from Windows 10 to Windows 11, users won’t notice such a drastic difference. Windows 11 use seems intuitive, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to pick up.

What Changed From Windows 10 to Windows 11?

The two operating systems are actually quite similar. Here are the basic differences you’ll discover when you launch Windows 11:

• The start menu has a new interface.
• Windows 11 is better integrated with Microsoft 365 services like SharePoint, Teams and OneDrive. Services that became more in demand recently due to the increase in remote work.
• Enhancements to the way laptops handle docking and how they monitor configurations offer advantages of Windows 11 over Windows 10.
• In upcoming months, Microsoft will introduce a few extra features. One of the most interesting planned extras is support for Android apps that operate directly in Windows. Workflow and security issues may change with that feature, so that’s something to watch for.

What’s the Launch Date for Windows 11?

It’s already out. Windows 11 was launched on October 6, 2021. Windows 10 will still be sold, and supported for some time, though. Likely for at least the next year. Windows 11 can only be launched as a download from Microsoft or pre-installed when new computers are purchased.

How Much Does Windows 11 Cost?

You can’t actually purchase Windows 11 at this point, but you can get it free. Yes, you read that right.

It’s available as an upgrade, without charge, for computers currently operating on Windows 10. Good news for most Windows users, since you’ll be able to easily add the upgrade on your existing machine. The only cost is the time it takes.

When Windows 11 eventually becomes available for retail sale, the cost will probably be similar to Windows 10s current retail price. Windows 10 Pro’s normal price today is $199.

As long as your computer’s hardware supports Windows 11, and it is currently running on a valid/licensed copy of Windows 10 Pro, you can currently upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for free. Free updates are available for Windows 11 if your system accommodates them.

Will Windows 11 run on my Computer?

You should be able to install and operate Windows 11 on any computer manufactured within the past three years. Computers made more than three years previously, however, will probably not have what it takes to run this new operating system.

Microsoft’s operating systems are known for their compatibility with computers made years before. But there are notable hardware restrictions that may prevent Windows 11 from working on the computers your business utilizes, if they are not among the latest models.

Following are some of Microsoft’s stated basic specifications for computer systems capable of running Windows 11.

• Memory capabilities of at least 4 GB RAM are required.
• Storage devices must be 64 GB or greater.
• The processor needs to be 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster. That’s with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
• The CPU is required to be AMD Ryzen 2nd-generation or newer or Intel Core 8th-generation or newer.
•  System firmware must be UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
• Trusted platform module (TPM) required is version 2.0
• Graphics card should be compatible with the driver DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0.
• It’s important that display resolution is high definition. A 720p display greater than 9″ diagonally with 8 bits per colour channel is required for Windows 11 to properly function.

Restrictions occurring most frequently that could prevent older PCs from utilizing the new operating system are the CPU and TPM specifications. TPMs are security chips that help enforce disk encryption and other important security related actions.

By specifying the requirement that AMD 2nd -gen or Intel 8-gen chips are in use with Windows 11, Microsoft makes certain all computers with Windows 11 have sufficient security protection, since they will be modern enough to have TPM chips.

You can tell if the computers you currently have can run Windows 11 by using Microsoft’s app: Microsoft PC Health Check. Our team at CTECH Consulting Group can also help you make that determination.

Is it Better to Purchase Computers Containing Windows 10 or Windows 11?

Our answer may come as a surprise. But there are sound reasons behind it.

Buying a Windows 10 computer is the best option for businesses and organizations purchasing computers in the near future. That’s because new operating systems are often less stable. Issues are often not discovered until after launch. They must be addressed before the new system’s function becomes seamless. No business can afford downtime due to operating system issues.

Wait at least three months to purchase Windows 11, to avoid lost time and money due to OS stability issues. Windows 11 may not even be available for a while for many business systems. Some major computer manufacturers won’t likely offer Windows 11 on business-grade computers for a number of months, until they are certain the new system is stable and reliable.

Should we Upgrade our Existing Computers Right Away?

At CTECH, we agree with the position of the major computer companies who plan to hold off on installing Windows 11 in their new business computers. This Forbes article’s author notes the wisdom of staying on the fence for a while also. Waiting six months or more to install Windows 11 in your existing computers will give Microsoft time to address any performance and security issues.

Is Support for Windows 11 Available?

CTECH Consulting Group, is familiar with Microsoft’s latest operating system. We look forward to answering your Windows 11 frequently asked questions, and more specific queries concerning when and how your business might best launch the new OS.

We can also offer knowledgeable support if you’ve already upgraded to Windows 11 and are experiencing problems. When a system like Windows 11 is first put into use, it may experience a few challenges. But you can depend on us to stay on top of the latest developments and recommended solutions.

Written by Carl Fransen

posted on October 18, 2021

Carl Fransen

My passion is to make my mark on the world in a positive and lasting way. I want to set an example for my son that his father can compete with integrity in today’s world, be very successful, and leave the world a better place for him.

Combining my technical/business-based education with a long career steadily progressing up the corporate ladder, I decided to build a company that held true to my values. So, I founded and designed the next generation of IT support firm: CTECH Consulting Group Inc. We are a completely automated, cloud-based IT company designed to compete against any other IT firm without the overhead. We promote a lifestyle to all our staff where they can work anywhere, at any time, access any information on any device that is relevant to their job, and collaborate with anyone they want to.