Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, which promises to deliver a better computing experience for users. It is packed with new and improved features that will enhance the way you work, play, and interact with your laptop. In this article, we will explore some of the new features of Windows 11 and provide step-by-step instructions on how to activate them on a beginner's laptop.
- Improved Start Menu
The Start Menu is one of the most important parts of Windows, and Windows 11 has made significant improvements to it. The Start Menu has been redesigned to be more intuitive and user-friendly. It now has a more modern and streamlined look, and it's more customizable, too. You can now add, remove, and rearrange tiles, and you can also choose a custom background for the Start Menu.
To activate the new Start Menu on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the Start button and select Settings.
In the Settings window, select Personalization.
In the Personalization window, select Start.
Here, you can choose a custom background for the Start Menu, as well as add, remove, and rearrange tiles.
- Improved Snap Assist
Snap Assist is a feature that allows you to easily arrange multiple windows on your screen. In Windows 11, Snap Assist has been improved to be even more intuitive and user-friendly. You can now snap windows to different parts of the screen with a simple click and drag, and Snap Assist will automatically adjust the size of the windows to fit the available space.
To activate Snap Assist on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Click and drag a window to one side of the screen.
When the window snaps to the side of the screen, Snap Assist will automatically appear.
Use Snap Assist to select another window to snap to the other side of the screen.
- Improved Virtual Desktops
Virtual Desktops are a great way to organize your windows and keep your desktop clutter-free. In Windows 11, Virtual Desktops have been improved to be more user-friendly and easier to use. You can now create multiple virtual desktops, each with its own set of windows, and switch between them with a simple click.
To activate Virtual Desktops on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the Task View button in the taskbar.
Select New Desktop.
A new virtual desktop will be created, and you can switch between virtual desktops by clicking on the Task View button in the taskbar.
- Improved File Explorer
File Explorer is the default file manager in Windows, and Windows 11 has made significant improvements to it. File Explorer now has a more modern and streamlined look, and it's also more customizable. You can now choose a custom background for File Explorer, and you can also choose different colors for different folders.
To activate the improved File Explorer on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the File Explorer icon in the taskbar.
Select Settings.
In the Settings window, select Personalization.
In the Personalization window, select File Explorer.
Here, you can choose a custom background for File Explorer, as well as choose different colors for different folders.
- Improved Cortana
Cortana is the digital assistant in Windows, and Windows 11 has made significant improvements to it. Cortana is now more intelligent and more helpful than ever before. You can now use Cortana to perform a wide range of tasks, including setting reminders, sending emails, and searching the web.
To activate the improved Cortana on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Click on the Cortana icon in the taskbar.
In the Cortana window, click on the Notebook icon.
In the Notebook, select Settings.
Here, you can turn on or off various Cortana features, such as voice commands, notifications, and more.
- Improved Game Mode
Game Mode is a new feature in Windows 11 that optimizes your laptop for gaming. When you turn on Game Mode, Windows 11 will automatically adjust system settings and prioritize resources for the game you're playing, giving you a better gaming experience.
To activate Game Mode on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the Start button and select Settings.
In the Settings window, select Gaming.
In the Gaming window, select Game Mode.
Turn on Game Mode and select the game you want to play.
- Improved Security
Security is always a top priority for Microsoft, and Windows 11 has made significant improvements in this area. Windows 11 now has built-in antivirus and firewall protection, and it also includes several new security features that will keep your laptop safe and secure.
To activate the improved security features on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the Start button and select Settings.
In the Settings window, select Update & Security.
In the Update & Security window, select Windows Security.
Here, you can turn on or off various security features, such as firewall protection, antivirus protection, and more.
- Snap Layouts
Snap Layouts is a new feature in Windows 11 that allows you to arrange multiple windows on your screen in a snap. With Snap Layouts, you can easily arrange windows side-by-side, top-to-bottom, or in a custom layout, making it easier to work with multiple applications at once.
To activate Snap Layouts on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Click and hold the top of the window you want to arrange.
Drag the window to the side of the screen where you want to place it.
Windows 11 will automatically snap the window into place and create a new space for another window.
- Action Center
Action Center is a new feature in Windows 11 that provides a central location for all of your notifications and quick actions. With Action Center, you can easily access your notifications and take quick actions without having to open different applications.
To activate Action Center on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Click on the Action Center icon in the taskbar.
In the Action Center window, you can access your notifications and quick actions.
To customize the quick actions available in Action Center, right-click on the Start button and select Settings. In the Settings window, select System, and then select Notifications & actions. Here, you can add or remove quick actions as needed.
- Quick Start
Quick Start is a new feature in Windows 11 that allows you to quickly launch your most frequently used applications. With Quick Start, you can easily access your favorite applications from the taskbar, saving you time and effort.
To activate Quick Start on Windows 11, follow these steps:
Right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar Settings.
In the Taskbar Settings window, select the Start Menu tab.
Here, you can turn on Quick Start and select the applications you want to include in the Quick Start menu.
In conclusion, Windows 11 is packed with new and improved features that will enhance the way you work, play, and interact with your laptop. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, you'll find something to love about Windows 11. If you're looking to upgrade your laptop to Windows 11, be sure to follow the steps outlined in this article to activate the new features and get the most out of your experience.