Ultimate Guide to Windows 11: Requirements, Features, and Transition Tips

As Windows 11 smoothly transitions into its fourth year, it stands tall on hundreds of millions of PCs around the globe. For many, the journey to understanding Microsoft's latest operating system—debuted in October 2021—might feel overwhelming. But worry not, fellow Windows enthusiasts! We’ve got your back with the essential answers you need regarding system requirements, hardware compatibility, Windows 12 musings, and everything in between.

What is Windows 11?​

By definition, Windows 11 is the successor to Windows 10, built on the core architecture of its predecessor while introducing an overhauled user experience. Microsoft could have chosen to simply roll out updates, but they opted for a major rebranding along with a more stringent set of hardware requirements. This bold move signifies a departure from the company’s long-standing emphasis on backward compatibility.

The Evolution of Windows 11​

Since its inception, Windows 11 has undergone numerous refinements and feature additions. Most notably, updates have brought significant changes to the Start menu, taskbar, and Settings app, leading to a more intuitive interface. Add to that a Widgets pane, tabbed File Explorer, and the AI-backed Windows Copilot, and you have a system ready to adapt to new user needs.

Is Windows 11 Free?​

For most users, the answer is yes—but with some caveats. If your current rig comes with a licensed copy of Windows 10, you can upgrade to Windows 11 at no charge. However, for those who are building their own PCs or deploying Windows in virtual environments, entering a product key or securing a license is mandatory.

Pricing Structure​

Windows 11 licenses are readily available and typically carry the same price as Windows 10, encompassing retail and OEM editions.

Will Windows 10 Be Discontinued?​

Mark your calendars: support for Windows 10 officially ends on October 14, 2025. After that date, your machines running Windows 10 will continue to operate, but they will no longer receive any updates without a paid Extended Security Update subscription. This makes it essential for users to familiarize themselves with Windows 11 sooner rather than later.

Minimum System Requirements​

Unlike its predecessors, Windows 11 requires more robust hardware, marking a departure from the era of universal upgrade compatibility. The system requirements are as follows:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with two or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system on a chip (SoC)
• RAM: Minimum of 4 GB
• Storage: At least 64 GB of available storage
• Security: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, UEFI firmware, and Secure Boot capable
• Graphics Card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later
• Display: High-definition (720p) display, 9 inches or greater

To check if your machine is compatible, you can use the PC Health Check app provided by Microsoft.

Will My Existing Apps and Hardware Devices Work with Windows 11?​

Fortunately, most applications and drivers that function on Windows 10 will transition smoothly to Windows 11 without issue. This compatibility eases concerns for users who rely heavily on essential software. However, a notable caveat occurs with the latest generation of Arm-based PCs, which may require developers to recompile applications specifically for Arm architecture.

Emulation Support​

Arm-based systems do have a fallback: they can run standard x86 applications through emulation, albeit with a potential performance hit. Custom drivers, though, will require recompilation by developers for full functionality.

Why Does Windows 11 Require a TPM?​

A significant security enhancement in Windows 11 is the mandate for a Trusted Platform Module (TPM). By serving as a dedicated hardware-based security processor, the TPM supports features like device encryption, making devices more resilient against increasingly pervasive cyber threats.
In addition to TPM, the system must use UEFI firmware, doing away with traditional BIOS setups, which means the GUID Partition Table (GPT) standard must be adhered to.

Does Windows 11 Really Require a Microsoft Account?​

For personal setups, a Microsoft account is essential during the initial configuration of Windows 11. However, users can create a local account post-setup or utilize workarounds to bypass this requirement during installation. Having a Microsoft account does unlock additional features like Device Encryption, but if you're privacy-minded, know that local accounts are still a viable option.

What to Do If Your System Doesn’t Meet Requirements?​

Should your PC not pass compatibility checks, fret not! There are methods to bypass these restrictions. You can modify specific registry keys or employ tools like Rufus to circumvent Windows 11's compatibility checks.
However, this comes with a disclaimer—using unsupported hardware may lead to a lack of updates, and any damage isn't covered under warranty.

What's New in the Windows 11 User Interface?​

Visual changes are one of the signature features of Windows 11. The taskbar is now centered, the Start menu has undergone a complete redesign, and Microsoft has implemented vibrant colors with softer edges. Widgets alongside a revamped File Explorer and Settings app make for a refreshingly upgraded experience.

Taskbar and Task Management​

Gone are the days of a strictly left-aligned taskbar. While you can shift it back to its traditional spot, the center alignment represents a marked departure from the past. The flexibility to snap windows has seen improvement, with hover actions revealing quick options for multitasking.

Conclusion: Is Windows 11 Worth Installing?​

Despite a fair amount of criticism regarding its user interface being "dumbed down," Windows 11 offers enhanced reliability and security advantages compared to Windows 10. Plus, with Windows 10 reaching the end of its supported lifespan, migrating to Windows 11 is becoming not just a choice, but a necessity.
Though upgrading to Windows 11 requires adjusting to some changes, the underlying stability and future-proofing it offers make it a worthwhile investment for any Windows user.
For the latest version, regular updates, and all your tech needs, keep an eye on your Windows Update settings and the official Microsoft download page!

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This guide has been brought to you to ensure a smoother transition as Windows 11 settles into your tech ecosystem. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to discuss it in the forums!
Source: ZDNET The ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know