Windows 11 cheat sheet: Everything you need to know

What Is Windows 11

Table of Contents

Do you know Windows 11, if yes then this article is for you. We are discussing Windows 11 Read on for more.

There’s plenty to love about Windows. The update brings Fluent Design (that’s Microsoft speak for rounded corners) and a simplified taskbar designed for touchscreens.

The operating system also offers improvements for tablets and 2-in-1 devices that detach their keyboards, like a dedicated Teams button and easy hotspot access.

Other new features include a revamped Photos app, better multitasking with Snap Layouts and Desktops, and easier voice control with Cortana.

There are also improvements for PC gaming, including a faster start up time and a 40% smaller size for updates, as well as DirectX 12 Ultimate for more immersive graphics with higher frame rates. Plus, there’s an automatic HDR mode for more detailed and vibrant colors.

The update is available for PCs, tablets and phones running Windows 10 or later. You can check to see if your device is eligible with Microsoft’s Windows Upgrade Advisor (opens in new tab). But, the tool can be buggy, giving erroneous results for some machines that would run the update just fine.

If your computer meets the requirements, you can use OneDrive (opens in new tab) to transfer files over to Windows 11. You can then install those files on a different machine and continue working with them there. The OneDrive app can also be used to share files with other people, so you can send someone a link and they can download and open the file without needing a Microsoft account.

Windows 11 Released

Having been released on October 5th, is the latest major release for Microsoft’s operating system. It’s a free upgrade for existing Windows 10 users, but it does come with some new features and system requirements. If you don’t want to wait until October, you can download it now through the Insider Programme – but beware that this is a beta version with missing features and rocky performance.

There’s a lot to look forward to in Windows, which will be rolling out to eligible systems over the next few months. Updates will be 40% smaller and Microsoft is promising that this is its most secure release yet. Multitasking is also getting a focus, with Snap Layouts offering a more customised way to arrange many apps on the screen. You’ll be able to create grouped layouts of apps in columns, sections or whatever else you fancy. You’ll also be able to use virtual desktops to keep different types of work or games separate on your PC.

Gaming will get a boost, with the Xbox app being replaced with a dedicated app and HDR support delivering better lighting and contrast for gaming and media playback on compatible machines. There’s a much more comprehensive list of what’s coming in on the Microsoft website.

Pre-release updates of Windows 11

During the pre-release phase, Microsoft typically releases many preview builds of to the Insider Program participants. These preview builds are not intended for production use but rather for testing purposes. They allow users to explore the new features, provide feedback on bugs or issues, and help Microsoft refine the operating system before its official release.

The pre-release updates of Windows 11 through the Windows Insider Program likely included bug fixes, performance improvements, and feature updates based on user feedback and testing. Microsoft may have also introduced new features or made changes to the user interface based on the feedback received during this phase.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on pre-release updates and changes to Windows 11, I recommend visiting the official Microsoft website or checking the Windows Insider Program announcements. These sources will provide the most reliable and detailed information on the pre-release updates of Windows 11.

What is the Windows 11 version timeline?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the specific version timeline for Windows 11 has not been publicly disclosed by Microsoft. But, Microsoft typically follows a regular update cadence for its Windows operating systems. Here is a general outline of the version timeline for Windows:

Initial Release: Windows 11 was officially released on October 5, 2021. This marked the availability of the stable and final version of Windows 11 to the general public.

Feature Updates: Microsoft typically releases feature updates for Windows on a regular basis. These updates introduce new features, improvements, and fixes to the operating system. The frequency of feature updates can vary, but in recent years, Microsoft has been following a semi-annual release schedule.

Cumulative Updates: Also to feature updates, Microsoft regularly releases cumulative updates to address security vulnerabilities, bug fixes, and stability improvements. These updates are usually released on a monthly basis as part of “Patch Tuesday,” the second Tuesday of each month when Microsoft typically releases security patches and updates for its products.

It’s important to note that the version timeline and update cadence can vary, and Microsoft may make adjustments based on feedback, requirements, and other factors.

What new features come with Windows 11?

Windows 11 introduces several new features and improvements compared to its predecessor, 10. While I may not have the most up-to-date information on the latest Windows 11 features, as my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021, here are some notable features that were announced before the release of Windows 11:

Redesigned Start Menu and Taskbar: The Start Menu is centered on the screen by default, featuring a simplified and modern design. The Taskbar has a new centered layout as well.

Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Windows 11 offers new window management features that allow users to easily organize and snap into predefined layouts or groups. This feature makes multitasking more efficient.

Microsoft Store Redesign: The Microsoft Store in Windows has been redesigned and offers a more curated selection of apps, including support for popular apps like Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Teams.

Direct Integration with Microsoft Teams: Windows includes built-in integration with Microsoft Teams, making it easier to communicate and collaborate with others through text, voice, or video calls.

Gaming Enhancements: Windows 11 brings improvements for gaming, including better support for DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR, and DirectStorage. These enhancements can result in improved graphics, faster load times, and omit better gaming performance.

esktops and Productivity Features: Windows 11 introduces virtual desktops, allowing users to create many customized desktop layouts for different workflows. It also includes productivity features like Snap Assist, which provides suggestions for opening apps and documents based on user activity.

Additionally, Windows 11 features a new, more rounded and centered design language, with updated icons, animations, and system sounds. It also includes performance optimizations, security enhancements, and accessibility improvements.

What new features come with Windows 11 22H2?

But, Microsoft typically introduces new features, improvements, and bug fixes with each feature update for its Windows operating systems.

Historically, feature updates for Windows have brought various enhancements in areas such as performance, security, user interface, and productivity. It is likely that 11 22H2 will follow a similar pattern, introducing new functionalities and refining existing ones based on user feedback and evolving technology trends.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on the features and improvements coming with 22H2, I recommend checking official Microsoft sources or referring to documentation and announcements closer to the release date of the 22H2 update. Microsoft typically provides detailed information about the features and changes in each update before its release.

What do developers need to know about Windows 11?

Certainly! Here’s a table summarizing the key points developers need to know about:

Aspect	Description
Compatibility	Developers should ensure their applications are compatible with Windows 11 and test them on the new operating system.
User Interface	Windows 11 introduces a redesigned UI, and developers should follow the new design guidelines for consistency with the OS.
Window Management	Developers can optimize their apps for Snap Layouts and Snap Groups, allowing users to manage multiple windows efficiently.
Microsoft Store	The Microsoft Store has been redesigned, and developers should ensure their apps meet the updated submission guidelines for Windows 11.
Gaming Features	Windows 11 brings gaming enhancements like DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR, and DirectStorage, which developers can leverage for better graphics and performance.
Microsoft Teams Integration	Developers can integrate Microsoft Teams within their applications for seamless communication and collaboration.
Development Tools	Stay updated with the latest versions of tools like Visual Studio and utilize appropriate APIs and SDKs for Windows 11 development.

Remember that this table provides a high-level summary, and developers should refer to official Microsoft documentation and resources for more detailed information and guidelines specific to Windows development.

What are the system requirements for Windows ?

Here are the least system requirements for running Windows:

Processor: 1 GHz or faster with at least 2 cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or system-on-a-chip (SoC).

RAM: 4 GB or more.

Storage: 64 GB or more of storage.

System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.

TPM Version: TPM version 2.0.

Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver.

Display: A display with at least 720p resolution, diagonally larger than 9 inches (greater than 8.29 inches width or height).

Internet Connection: Internet connectivity is necessary for downloading updates and some features.

Additionally, Microsoft provides a PC Health Check tool that allows users to check if their current PC meets the Windows system requirements. This tool can help determine compatibility with Windows by assessing hardware components like the processor, RAM, storage, TPM, and Secure Boot capability.

It’s important to note that these are the least requirements, and certain features or functionalities of Windows 11 may have more hardware requirements.

What are feature-specific requirements for Windows 11?

Microsoft has introduced certain feature-specific requirements for Windows also to the least system requirements. Here are some feature-specific requirements for Windows :

1: DirectX 12 and Gaming Features:

Graphics Card: A DirectX 12 compatible graphics card or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver is required to take advantage of the gaming enhancements and features like Auto HDR and DirectStorage.

2: Direct Storage:

Storage: NVMe SSD is recommended to fully support DirectStorage technology, which enables faster loading times and improved performance in games that use this feature.

3: Virtualization-based Security (VBS) and Hypervisor-protected Code Integrity (HVCI):

Processor: Certain security features like VBS and HVCI need a compatible 64-bit processor with specific virtualization extensions (e.g., Intel VT-x, AMD-V).

4 : TPM Version 2.0:

TPM (Trusted Platform Module) Version: Windows 11 requires a TPM version 2.0. The TPM is a hardware component that provides more security features and safeguards.

It’s important to note that these feature-specific requirements are also to the least system requirements for Windows 11. Meeting these requirements ensures that users can use specific features and capabilities of the operating system.

Developers should consider these requirements when developing applications that rely on or take advantage of these features.

Is Windows 11 free?

Yes, Windows 11 is free for eligible Windows 10 users. Microsoft has announced that existing Windows 10 users who meet the system requirements for Windows 11 will be able to upgrade to Windows 11 for free. The free upgrade offer applies to both Home and Pro editions of Windows 10.

But, it’s important to note that the offer is subject to meeting the specific hardware requirements of Windows 11. Not all devices that are currently running will be compatible with Windows 11. Microsoft has provided a PC Health Check tool that users can use to determine if their system meets the requirements for upgrading to Windows 11.

It’s worth noting that while the upgrade to Windows 11 is free, users may still need to consider factors such as data backup, application compatibility, and potential hardware upgrades to ensure a smooth transition to the new operating system.

Is Windows 11 worth it?

Determining whether Windows 11 is worth it ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if Windows 11 is worth upgrading to:

New Features and User Interface: Windows 11 introduces a redesigned user interface, improved window management, gaming enhancements, and integration with Microsoft Teams, among other features. If these new features align with your needs and you value the updated design and functionality, Windows 11 may be worth it.

Compatibility and Hardware Requirements: Windows 11 has specific hardware requirements, and not all devices that can run Windows 10 will be compatible with Windows 11. If your current device is not compatible, you may need to consider the cost and feasibility of upgrading to a new device that meets the requirements.

Security and Performance: Windows brings improvements in security and performance compared to Windows 10. If you rank enhanced security features and optimized performance, Windows 11 may offer benefits in these areas.

Application Compatibility: Before upgrading, consider checking the compatibility of your critical applications with Windows 11. Some older or niche applications may not be fully compatible, and you may need to ensure that all the software you rely on will work properly on the new operating system.

Long-Term Support and Updates: is expected to receive regular updates and support from Microsoft. If you prefer to have access to the latest features and security updates, can provide a more up-to-date and supported experience compared to older versions of.

Ultimately, the decision of whether is worth it is subjective and depends on your specific requirements, hardware situation, and preferences. It’s advisable to thoroughly research the features, hardware requirements, and potential impact on your workflow before making a decision.

Also Read About How To Install Jupyter Notebook on Mac and Windows

FAQ – Windows 11

Is Windows 11 good or not?

Our review of Windows 11’s 2022 Update (aka Windows = 22H2) indicated some key improvements: Snap Bar/Snap Groups, live captioning of recorded video, Voice Access, and more. Windows itself initially shipped with significant upgrades to the Settings app.

Why is Windows 11 so expensive?

Windows is so expensive since Microsoft pays for many resources, technologies, and OEMs for its development. The platform is so familiar for users that migrating from it incurs higher costs.

Should I switch to Windows 11 for free?

But if you’re still hesitant, there’s really no reason why you should upgrade to Windows 11 right away. As long as you’re on Windows 10, you’ll have access to many of Windows 11’s key features (like Auto HDR and virtual desktops) as well as critical updates and security patches through 2025.

Conclusion