Windows 11 is Here – Are You Ready?
By Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., CPA, CITP, CGMA
Microsoft formally released Windows 11, a free upgrade for most Windows users, on Oct. 5. The newest version of Windows offers several welcome new features, enhanced security and improved performance. However, not all computers will be able to run the latest version of Windows. Therefore, you should verify your computer meets the minimum requirements necessary to run Windows 11.
What Are the System Requirements for Windows 11?
According to Microsoft, the minimum specifications for Windows 11 include the following:
- 1 GHz or faster 64-bit multi-core processor or System on a Chip
- 4 GB of RAM
- 64 GB or larger disk drive
- UEFI, Secure Boot capable
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0
- DirectX 12 or later graphics card with WDDM 2.0 driver
- High-def display (720p or higher) larger than 9” diagonally
- Internet access for updates
How Can I Test My Computer?
Many users will struggle to determine if their computer meets the specs outlined above. Fortunately, Microsoft makes available a tool you can use to check your computer to see if it meets the system requirements outlined above. Specifically, you can use the Windows PC Health Check app to determine if your computer can run Windows 11.
You can download the Windows PC Health Check app by visiting https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp to download the tools. Once the download completes, access your Downloads folder, and click on the downloaded file to complete the installation. When the installation finishes, click the Check now button to test your computer. Your results will appear almost instantly, confirming that your computer will run Windows 11 or letting you know of any deficiencies.
What if My Computer Doesn’t Meet the Minimum Specifications?
If your computer does not meet the Windows 11 minimum specifications, you may still be able to run Windows 11. In that circumstance, you can still install the operating system if your device meets the following specifications.
- 1 GHz or faster 64-bit multi-core processor
- 64 GB or larger disk drive
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 1.2 or newer
However, in this situation, Microsoft will not support your instance of Windows 11, and you will not have access to updates or security patches. Significant risks abound with this type of implementation, and, accordingly, we do not recommend using it.
How Long Will Microsoft Support Windows 10?
The support cycle for Windows 10 extends through Oct. 14, 2025. Therefore, if you must continue to use Windows 10, you will have four years to plan your migration to Windows 11 or some other platform.
My Computer is Up to Standards, So How Do I Get Windows 11?
If your computer is up to Windows 11 standards, you can expect to receive your free Windows 11 upgrade over the upcoming weeks and months. A recent statement from Microsoft indicated that the company plans to have upgrades offered to all eligible customers by mid-2022. When your upgrade is available, it will download and install through the Windows Update feature.
What New Features Should I Look for in Windows 11?
The most visible new feature in Windows 11 is a redesigned user interface that centers the Taskbar and the Start menu in the middle of the screen. Further, Microsoft simplified the Start menu, with live tiles removed and a cleaner, fresher appearance.
Another feature that many will likely use is the improved Snap tool. Using Snap Layouts, you can quickly arrange apps on your screen. You can also create groups of apps using Snap Groups and access all grouped apps by clicking a single icon. Moreover, Windows 11 features improved support for multiple monitors. When you disconnect from multiple monitors, the apps open on the disconnected monitor minimize, instead of moving to the connected monitor. Upon reconnecting to multiple monitors, the minimized apps return to the place on the reconnected monitor.
An essential improvement to Windows 11 is better security. The mandate to have a TPM chip installed on a Windows 11-based computer exemplifies this point. For example, the TPM chip enables Windows Hello and BitLocker, two key security features in the operating system.
Additionally, Microsoft is simplifying the update process for Windows 11. In the new environment, Microsoft will release major updates only once a year. Further, Windows 11 installs updates in the background without interrupting end-user activities.
Summary
We often take operating systems for granted, only noticing them when things go wrong. However, with Windows 11, it appears that the upgrade is going to provide some welcome new features, alongside improved security. Accordingly, if you are a Windows user, we recommend you take advantage of the upgrade.
About the Author
Tommy is one of the shareholders of K2 Enterprises. At K2, Tommy focuses on creating and delivering content and is responsible for many Firm management and marketing functions. You may reach him at tommy@k2e.com, and you may learn more about K2 Enterprises at www.k2e.com.