With security front of mind, Microsoft has also introduced a strict new set of hardware requirements for Windows 11. “And all these components work together in the background to keep users safe without sacrificing quality, performance or experience.” We have also made going passwordless easier by simplifying the steps to deploy Windows Hello for Business,” explained the firm. “Key security features like hardware-based isolation, encryption, and malware prevention are turned on by default. Separately, Microsoft has made a point of highlighting Windows 11’s security credentials, with new protections added at a chip and cloud level to ensure company assets remain secure no matter where employees are located. The new OS reportedly uses less energy too, which should translate to longer battery life when employees are working on their travels. Navigating the web and web-based services is also said to be much snappier, and not just on Edge (opens in new tab). The new system tray also hosts a mute button for easy access, addressing one of the most common pandemic faux pas.Ĭustom window layouts in Windows 11 (Image credit: Microsoft) Performance and securityĭuring the development of Windows 11, another area Microsoft honed in on was performance and security, two qualities that will top the priority list for any business.Īlthough the company has not provided hard data, it says Windows 11 boot times are significantly faster, and so is authentication service Windows Hello. In Windows 11, users can launch directly into Teams (opens in new tab) chats and meetings with a single click or touch, via an icon that takes a front-and-center position in the taskbar.

One of Microsoft’s main focuses in the run-up to the Windows 11 launch has been the new level of interoperability with collaboration platform (opens in new tab) Teams, which has been built into the core of the new OS (and has also received a Windows 11-flavored visual overhaul). The confusion surrounding hardware requirements is yet to be fully resolved, for example, and it looks like users are already encountering a few bugs at launch, so businesses will need to think carefully about when to pull the trigger on Windows 11. However, Windows 11 is also likely to create a few headaches for businesses too. “With the shift to hybrid work, where work is constantly changing, we understand the importance of an operating system that is flexible, consistent, secure and works how you do.”

Windows 11 for workstation