Microsoft Windows 11: Intro

Summary

Introduction to Windows 11

Body

What is Windows 11?

Windows 11 is the new operating system from Microsoft, following Windows 10. It has a sleek, modern design and improved performance.

Meet Windows 11

Features in Windows 11

Updated Start Menu

In Windows 11, the Start menu and taskbar icons are now centered. The menu contains a search bar, pinned apps, and a "recommended" section.
It can be opened by clicking the Windows logo on the taskbar or by pressing the Windows logo key on the keyboard.

Windows 11 task bar with start menu icon emphasized

Learn more about your options for customization in this article: Using the Windows 11 Start menu

Access documents and network drives

In Windows 11, you can click on File Explorer from the taskbar or use the shortcut Windows logo key + E. This will give you access to your network drives (C drive, S drive, or V drive) and your cloud storage in OneDrive.

You can pin your favorite folders in File Explorer so you can find them quickly. Just right-click on a folder and select Pin to Quick Access.

Learn more about File Explorer in this article: Microsoft File Explorer Tips

Snap Layouts

Windows 11 has a feature called snap layouts. These allow you to place the windows you need side-by-side, even when you only have one screen. To get started, press and hold the Windows logo key + Arrow.

Learn more about using snap layouts in this article: Snap your Windows

Multiple Desktops

You can use more than one desktop in Windows 11. This is especially helpful if you only have one physical monitor. Create multiple desktops for different tasks or projects and quickly switch between each digital workspace as needed. You can also set up a separate space for sharing your screen in meetings to reduce distractions.

To access this feature in Task View, click the related icon (located to the right of the Start menu and search box) OR press the Windows logo key + Tab.

In Task view, you can create a new desktop.
Then right-click to rename the desktop or change the background.
Use Task View to switch to another desktop or press the Windows logo key + Left/right arrow to move between them.

Learn more about this feature in this article: Using multiple desktops in Windows

Snipping Tool

Windows 11 includes an updated version of Snipping Tool for taking screenshots. You can still capture screenshots, but now the application includes the ability to record video and copy or redact text from images. It also has a delay timer and easy built-in options for saving and sharing.

Learn more about Snipping Tool in this article: Using Snipping Tool in Windows 11

Tips and Tricks

Create a desktop shortcut

When programs are installed, you are often given the option to create a desktop shortcut for easy access. If you want to add a shortcut to a program, document, or file, you can create one at anytime.

Learn more about creating desktop shortcuts in this article: Create desktop shortcuts

Delete a desktop shortcut -> admin prompt

When deleting a shortcut, you may get the following message:

To delete the shortcut, click the Continue button.
Then click OK when prompted for the admin access and the shortcut will be deleted.

Keyboard shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are keys, or combinations of keys, that provide an alternative way to do something - without using your mouse! We often use shortcuts to lock our computer or to copy and paste, but there are many other shortcuts you can use to save time.

Learn more about keyboard shortcuts in this article: Keyboard shortcuts in Windows

Details

Article ID: 860

Created

Mon 5/5/25 11:00 AM

Modified

Mon 9/8/25 8:48 AM