Windows 11 Features FAQ: Your Essential Guide to New Tools

Windows 11 has evolved significantly since its launch, and in 2025, it's packed with features that make it the most capable Windows version yet. Whether you're considering upgrading or just want to get more out of your current installation, this guide covers everything you need to know about what makes Windows 11 special.

What's New in Windows 11 (2025 Updates)

Microsoft continues to roll out major improvements to Windows 11 through regular feature updates. Here's what's been added recently:

AI-Powered Features

• Windows Copilot: Your AI assistant built directly into Windows, accessible from the taskbar. It can help you change settings, answer questions, summarize documents, and automate tasks
• AI-enhanced search: Smarter search results that understand context and natural language queries
• Live Captions with translation: Real-time captions for any audio on your PC, now with multi-language translation
• Voice Access improvements: Control your PC entirely by voice with better accuracy and more commands

Productivity Enhancements

• Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Enhanced window management with more layout options and the ability to minimize/restore entire groups of apps
• Focus Sessions: Integrated with Microsoft To Do and Spotify to help you concentrate with timed work sessions
• Virtual Desktops: Create separate desktops for work, gaming, or personal use with custom wallpapers for each
• Widgets improvements: More customizable widgets with third-party app support
• Taskbar enhancements: Better overflow menu, drag-and-drop support, and more customization options

Gaming Features

• Auto HDR: Automatically adds HDR enhancement to over 1,000 DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games
• DirectStorage: Faster game load times by allowing games to load assets directly to the GPU
• Xbox Game Bar improvements: Better performance monitoring, social features, and widget customization
• Game Mode optimizations: Smarter resource allocation for better gaming performance

Security and Privacy

• Enhanced Phishing Protection: Microsoft Defender SmartScreen now warns you when entering passwords on suspicious sites or apps
• Smart App Control: Blocks untrusted or potentially dangerous applications before they can run
• Passkey support: Passwordless authentication using biometrics or PINs for supported websites and apps
• Windows Hello improvements: Faster facial recognition and fingerprint authentication
• Credential Guard: Hardware-based credential protection enabled by default on compatible devices

Core Windows 11 Features That Stand Out

1. Redesigned User Interface

Windows 11 features a centered Start menu and taskbar (though you can move them back to the left if you prefer). The design is cleaner, with rounded corners, new animations, and a more consistent visual language across the entire OS.

The new design isn't just cosmetic—it's optimized for touch, pen, and traditional mouse/keyboard input, making it more versatile across different device types.

2. Microsoft Teams Integration

Teams is built directly into the taskbar, making it easy to start video calls, chats, or meetings with one click. You can connect with anyone—they don't need Windows 11 or even a Microsoft account.

This integration makes Microsoft Teams more accessible for personal use, not just business communication.

3. Android App Support

Through the Microsoft Store, you can now install and run Android apps directly on Windows 11. The selection has grown significantly, and apps run smoothly thanks to the Windows Subsystem for Android.

You can pin Android apps to your taskbar, use them in Snap Layouts, and they integrate seamlessly with Windows notifications.

4. Improved Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Store has been completely rebuilt with a better interface, faster performance, and a much larger app selection. It now includes traditional Win32 apps, not just UWP apps, giving you access to popular software like Adobe Creative Cloud, Discord, and more.

5. DirectX 12 Ultimate

Windows 11 requires DirectX 12 Ultimate-compatible graphics, which enables advanced gaming features like ray tracing, variable rate shading, and mesh shaders. If you're a gamer, this means better graphics and performance in supported titles.

6. Better Multi-Monitor Support

Windows 11 remembers your window positions across multiple monitors. When you disconnect and reconnect displays, your windows return to where you left them—no more rearranging everything after unplugging your laptop.

7. Improved Touch, Pen, and Voice Input

• Touch gestures: More intuitive gestures for tablets and touchscreen devices
• Haptic feedback: Tactile responses when using a compatible pen
• Voice typing: Improved accuracy and automatic punctuation
• Handwriting recognition: Better pen input across the OS

Windows 11 Editions: Which One Do You Need?

Windows 11 comes in several editions, each designed for different users:

Windows 11 Home

The standard edition for most consumers. Includes all core features like Snap Layouts, Widgets, Microsoft Teams integration, and gaming features. Perfect for personal use, students, and home users.

Windows 11 Pro

Adds business and power-user features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, Hyper-V virtualization, Group Policy management, and the ability to join a domain. Best for professionals, small businesses, and advanced users.

Windows 11 Enterprise

Designed for large organizations with advanced security, deployment, and management features. Includes everything in Pro plus additional enterprise-grade tools.

Windows 11 Education

Similar to Enterprise but licensed for educational institutions. Includes features for classroom management and student safety.

For more details on editions, check out Microsoft's official comparison.

System Requirements: What You Need to Run Windows 11

Windows 11 has stricter requirements than Windows 10:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2+ cores on a compatible 64-bit processor (Intel 8th gen or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer)
• RAM: 4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
• Storage: 64 GB or larger
• System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module version 2.0
• Graphics card: DirectX 12 compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver
• Display: HD (720p) display, at least 9" diagonal, 8 bits per color channel

Use Microsoft's PC Health Check tool to verify compatibility.

How Windows 11 Compares to Windows 10

If you're still on Windows 10, here's what you gain by upgrading:

Feature	Windows 10	Windows 11
User Interface	Traditional design	Modern, centered, rounded corners
Window Management	Basic snap features	Advanced Snap Layouts & Groups
Android Apps	Not supported	Full support via Microsoft Store
Gaming Features	Basic DirectX 12	DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR, DirectStorage
AI Integration	Limited	Windows Copilot, AI-enhanced features
Security	Good	Enhanced with TPM 2.0, Smart App Control
Support End Date	October 14, 2025	At least 2031+

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Windows 11

Customize Your Start Menu

Right-click the Start button and choose Settings → Personalization → Start to control which folders appear and how many recently opened items to show.

Master Snap Layouts

Hover over the maximize button on any window to see available snap layouts. Choose one to instantly organize multiple windows on your screen.

Use Virtual Desktops

Press Windows key + Tab to create new virtual desktops. Assign different wallpapers to each for easy visual identification.

Enable Focus Assist

Go to Settings → System → Focus to automatically silence notifications during specific times or when you're gaming, presenting, or duplicating your display.

Customize Widgets

Click the Widgets icon on the taskbar and customize which information you want to see at a glance—weather, news, calendar, to-do lists, and more.

Set Up Windows Hello

If your device supports it, enable facial recognition or fingerprint login for faster, more secure sign-in.

Frequently Asked Questions About Windows 11

Is Windows 11 free to upgrade from Windows 10?

Yes, if you have a genuine Windows 10 license and your PC meets the system requirements, you can upgrade to Windows 11 for free. The upgrade is available through Windows Update or via the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.

Can I run Windows 11 without TPM 2.0?

Officially, no. Microsoft requires TPM 2.0 for Windows 11. However, there are unofficial workarounds to bypass this requirement, though they're not recommended for production environments and you won't receive official support. Most PCs from 2018 or later have TPM 2.0—you may just need to enable it in your BIOS settings.

Will my programs and files transfer when I upgrade?

Yes, when you upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11, your files, apps, and settings transfer automatically. However, it's always smart to back up important data before any major OS upgrade, just in case something goes wrong.

Is Windows 11 better for gaming than Windows 10?

Yes, Windows 11 includes several gaming-specific improvements: Auto HDR for better visuals, DirectStorage for faster load times, and optimized Game Mode. If you have compatible hardware, you'll see better gaming performance on Windows 11.

Can I move the taskbar to the left or top of the screen?

You can move the Start button and icons to the left side of the taskbar (Settings → Personalization → Taskbar → Taskbar behaviors → Taskbar alignment). However, you cannot move the entire taskbar to the top, left, or right edges of the screen like you could in Windows 10—it's locked to the bottom.

How do I get Android apps on Windows 11?

Open the Microsoft Store, search for the Amazon Appstore, and install it. Once installed, you can browse and download Android apps. The Windows Subsystem for Android runs these apps natively on your PC.

What is Windows Copilot and how do I use it?

Windows Copilot is an AI assistant built into Windows 11. Click the Copilot icon on the taskbar (or press Windows key + C) to open it. You can ask questions, request help with settings, summarize documents, generate content, and more. It's powered by advanced AI and integrates with your Windows environment.

Can I downgrade back to Windows 10 after upgrading?

Yes, but only within 10 days of upgrading. Go to Settings → System → Recovery and select "Go back." After 10 days, this option disappears and you'd need to do a clean install of Windows 10 if you want to return.

Does Windows 11 use more RAM than Windows 10?

Windows 11 has similar RAM requirements to Windows 10. While the minimum is 4 GB, 8 GB is recommended for smooth performance. In practice, Windows 11's memory management is actually more efficient, so you shouldn't see higher RAM usage compared to Windows 10 on the same hardware.

Is Windows 11 Pro worth it over Home?

It depends on your needs. Windows 11 Pro adds BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop hosting, Hyper-V virtualization, Group Policy management, and domain join capabilities. If you're a business user, IT professional, or power user who needs these features, Pro is worth it. For casual home users, Home edition is sufficient.

How often does Windows 11 receive updates?

Windows 11 receives monthly security and quality updates (Patch Tuesday, second Tuesday of each month) and annual feature updates with new capabilities. Microsoft has moved to a yearly feature update cycle, making updates less disruptive than the twice-yearly schedule Windows 10 had.

Can I use Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

Windows 11 Home requires a Microsoft account during setup. Windows 11 Pro allows you to set up with a local account by selecting "Domain join instead" during setup, then creating a local account. However, using a Microsoft account enables features like OneDrive sync, cross-device settings, and easier password recovery.

What happened to Cortana in Windows 11?

Cortana is no longer integrated into the taskbar or search in Windows 11. It's available as a separate app if you want to use it, but Microsoft has shifted focus to Windows Copilot as the primary AI assistant. Most users find Copilot more capable and useful than Cortana ever was.

Does Windows 11 support dual boot with Linux?

Yes, you can dual boot Windows 11 with Linux distributions. Windows 11 also includes Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL 2), which lets you run Linux distributions directly within Windows without dual booting. For more information, check out Microsoft's WSL documentation.

How do I check which version of Windows 11 I'm running?

Press Windows key + R, type "winver" and press Enter. A window will show your Windows 11 version number and build. You can also go to Settings → System → About to see detailed system information including your Windows version.

Should You Upgrade to Windows 11?

If your PC meets the requirements, upgrading to Windows 11 makes sense for most users. You get:

• Better security with modern hardware-based protection
• Improved productivity features like Snap Layouts and virtual desktops
• Enhanced gaming performance with DirectStorage and Auto HDR
• AI-powered assistance through Windows Copilot
• Continued support and updates (Windows 10 support ended October 2025)

The upgrade is free, relatively painless, and gives you access to years of future updates and improvements.

Getting Started with Windows 11

Ready to make the move? Here's how to get started:

1. Check compatibility using the PC Health Check tool
2. Back up your important files
3. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update
4. If Windows 11 is available, click "Download and install"
5. Follow the on-screen instructions

The upgrade typically takes 30-60 minutes, and your PC will restart several times during the process.

Final Thoughts

Windows 11 represents a significant evolution in the Windows operating system. It's not just a visual refresh—it's a fundamental reimagining of how Windows works, with better security, improved productivity tools, and modern features that take advantage of current hardware capabilities.

Whether you're a gamer looking for better performance, a professional needing advanced productivity features, or a casual user who wants a cleaner, more intuitive interface, Windows 11 has something to offer.

The best part? If you're already on Windows 10, the upgrade is free. Take advantage of it while you can, especially since Windows 10 support has ended.