Windows 11: Getting to Know Your New Operating System

Welcome to Windows 11

Windows 11 is here to transform the way you work and connect with colleagues. With a fresh design, new features, and a focus on productivity, your new operating system is a powerhouse at your fingertips. As with any update, the way you used to do things may have changed compared to Windows 10; please review the sections below to become acquainted with Windows 11.

New Features in Windows 11

Modern and Intuitive Design

  • Centered Taskbar and Start Menu: A fresh, centered look makes navigation intuitive and declutters the desktop. The Start menu has been redesigned with a minimalist interface and recommended apps for quick access.
  • Rounded Corners: Windows and menus now have smooth, rounded corners for a more polished and modern aesthetic.
  • Enhanced Themes: New light and dark themes provide a visually stunning experience tailored to your preferences.

 

Enhanced Productivity

  • Snap Layouts: Arrange open windows into preset layouts (e.g., side-by-side, grid) for multitasking with ease. Simply hover over the maximize button to access layout options.
  • Snap Groups: Save groups of apps together to reopen later, maintaining your workspace exactly as you left it.
  • Virtual Desktops: Easily switch between desktops for work or personal tasks, now with custom backgrounds for each desktop.
  • Focus Sessions in Clock App: Integrated with Spotify, the Clock app now helps you stay on task while enjoying your favorite tunes.

 

Optimized Performance

  • Faster Boot Times: Experience quicker startup and app load times compared to Windows 10.
  • Energy Efficiency: Windows 11 is optimized for improved battery life on laptops.

 

Widgets for Personalized Information

  • Access news, weather, calendars, and much more with customizable widgets.

 

Enhanced Security

  • TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot: Built-in hardware-based security features protect your system from modern threats.
  • Windows Hello Passwordless Login: Faster and safer login using facial recognition or a PIN.

Advantages of Windows 11 Over Windows 10

Feature Windows 10 Windows 11
User Interface Traditional taskbar and menu Centered taskbar, modern design
Multitasking Snap Assist Snap Layouts and Snap Groups
Performance Standard Faster, optimized for battery life
Teams Integration Separate download Built-in
Security Basic TPM 2.0, Secure Boot

Windows Hello

Windows 11 offers several new ways to sign into your computer. To learn more about these additional sign-in methods, please review the Windows 11: Windows Hello knowledge document.

GlobalProtect VPN Client

The GlobalProtect VPN (Virtual Private Network) client by Palo Alto Networks is a tool that allows you to securely access the university's network and resources from anywhere, whether you're working from home, traveling, or off-campus.  To learn more about GlobalProtect, please review the GlobalProtect VPN Overview knowledge document.

Dell Command Update

Dell Command Update (DCU) is an application used to update drivers, BIOS, and firmware for Dell computers. GVSU has deployed this software to all Windows 11-compatible devices to keep them up to date. Standard Windows updates will still be delivered through the Windows Update section of the Settings app.  To learn more about DCU, please review the Dell Command Update Overview knowledge document.

Private Drive System to Microsoft OneDrive Transition

GVSU is transitioning from individual private drives to Microsoft OneDrive for file storage. This change aims to improve the ease of storing, accessing, and backing up your data. With OneDrive, you can access your files from any internet-connected device on campus. Please note that shared department drives will remain unchanged and will continue to be accessible. Your files from the private drive have already been migrated to OneDrive using the SharePoint Migration Manager, access to your private drive will now be removed within two weeks. To ensure a smooth transition, please:

  1. Verify that all your data has been correctly transferred.

  2. Stop making changes to files still stored in your private drive.

Working with files that sync to OneDrive requires careful attention. Familiarizing yourself with the application and understanding how files respond to changes is especially important in Windows 11. For information about OneDrive, please click this link.

The Benefits of Using OneDrive

OneDrive offers several benefits that make it a reliable choice for managing and backing up your files. First, it ensures that your data is always available, even if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged. Files stored in OneDrive can be accessed from any internet-connected device, so you’ll never lose access to important documents.

Another significant advantage is OneDrive’s version history feature. This tool allows you to view and restore previous versions of a file, which is especially helpful if you accidentally overwrite something or make a mistake while editing. For example, if you’re working on a report and realize you need an earlier version, you can easily recover it using OneDrive.

Where Are My Files?

All files from your private drive and old computer have been migrated to Microsoft OneDrive. The files from the Documents folder on the private drive have also been merged with the Documents folder in Windows 11 to allow for a seamless transition. To access your files, please follow the steps in the expandable sections below.

Accessing Your Files
Using an Internet-Connected Device to Access Your Files

Installing Network Printers in Windows 11

The process of adding network printers has changed with the move to Windows 11. To add a network printer, please follow the steps in the expandable section below.

Printer Installation Guide

Requesting Administrator Access

By default, any account on a GVSU-managed Windows 11 computer will be a standard user account, not an administrator. If you need to install a program, change a setting, or perform any other action that requires administrator-level access, please click the Windows 11 Administrator Access button inside of this knowledge document: Windows 11 Administrator Access. Administrator privileges last for 24 hours, and requests are fulfilled the same day they are placed.

Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts

Full List of Keyboard Shortcuts

Upgrade Today and Experience the Future of Windows

Windows 11 isn’t just an operating system; it’s a productivity powerhouse that delivers speed, security, and style. It is designed to elevate your everyday tasks and bring a new level of joy to your PC. Upgrade now to enjoy a faster, more secure, and beautifully redesigned operating system.

To find out how to upgrade your PC to Windows 11, click here.

Additional Resources

For additional information about Windows 11, please click the links below.

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