Windows 11Microsoft just released the latest version of Windows!  It was back in June when Microsoft announced Windows’ next-gen edition. With the new version released, what does this new version have in store for us? Let's take a look.

Windows 11 New Features

There are many new features on Windows 11, including Microsoft Teams updates, changes to the Start menu, and the ability to run and download Android apps on a Windows PC. In addition, the software itself looks similar to the Mac design and is clean and slick.

The aim of Windows 11 is to streamline your computer and help you be more productive on your tablet, laptop, or PC.

Android Apps

The first feature that we've been waiting for is the ability to use Android apps. To find these, you'll need to download Amazon's Appstore, and then from there, you'll be able to download the new Microsoft Store. There are almost half a million apps available for you to download. These include popular ones like TikTok, Disney Plus, Uber, Pinterest, and Netflix. Not every app in the Google Play Store will be available, however.

Widgets

Widgets will be available on the Windows 11 interface. These are a customizable AI-powered feed that will show your to-do list, recent photos, the news and weather, and your calendar. Widgets are easily accessible through the redesigned taskbar. When they slide out, you can then expand them to take up the whole screen.

Microsoft Teams Updates

Great news for those using Microsoft Teams; this will now be built directly into the Windows 11 operating system, making accessing it much more straightforward. In addition, Teams will be in the taskbar.

Virtual Desktops

With Windows 11, you'll be able to create different virtual desktops. This access means, for the various parts of your life, whether that's home, school, or gaming, you'll have a specific desktop. In addition, it will be effortless to switch between your different desktops. Though Microsoft hasn’t released an awful lot of information about how virtual desktops will work, it’s believed that you’ll be able to switch them quickly and easily in one simple click.

Snap Layouts

Another nice feature of Windows 11 is the new snap layouts. When you have lots of open windows, you’ll be able to arrange them in different configurations on your screen. Snap layouts will be accessible from the top of each window in between the minimize button and the X. It will appear as a square, and you’ll see the various layout options when you click it.

Xbox Tech

Windows 11 will feature some Xbox console tech like DirectStorage and Auto HDR to improve PC gaming.

Windows 11 and HIPAA

Under HIPAA Security Rules (specifically Rule 45 C.F.R.164.308 (a)(5)(ii)(B)), organizations must implement security procedures to detect, guard against, and report malicious software. Organizations won't meet HIPAA compliance requirements if they continue to use software that is no longer supported.

For users who need to be HIPPA compliant, Windows 11 is a great solution. Unfortunately, like previous versions of Windows, there will eventually be an end to the support available for Windows 10. However, since HIPAA requirements mean that software must be up-to-date, Windows 11 means you can rest assured that your software will meet your needs.

Since compatible machines running Windows 10 will be able to download Windows 11 as a free update, it’s a no-brainer. If you’re using an older version of Windows, it’s now the time to upgrade. Additionally, it's a good idea to upgrade to Windows 10 before the release of Windows 11, which means you'll then get the Windows 11 upgrade for free.

For healthcare businesses, violating HIPAA rules can lead to bankruptcy. Not only that, but if you knowingly commit a violation of HIPAA, you risk facing jail time.

Bottom Line

There are so many positives to Windows 11. Visually, you'll notice a difference straight away, but it's the behind-the-scenes updates that set it apart.

It doesn't matter whether you want to upgrade to Windows 11 or not. However, with support ending for Windows 10 and security rules requiring up-to-date software, we need to be prepared to run our computers on Windows 11. Contact us today to get our opinion!