As businesses prepare for Windows 10’s retirement in 2025, many are making the transition to Windows 11.  As of August 2024, Windows 11 had over 31% of the Windows market share, and that number will be increasing rapidly as the Windows 10 end of support date gets closer.  With its modern features and productivity enhancements, Windows 11 is built to streamline workflows, so here are some tips to help you leverage it effectively.

Whether you’re running a financial firm, healthcare office, manufacturing plant, or logistics operation, these Windows 11 optimization tips can help you and your business team work smarter and more efficiently.

1. Customize Your Start Menu

The Start Menu is your gateway to frequently used apps and settings. Save time by:

  • Pinning important apps: Right-click any app and select "Pin to Start."

  • Creating folders: Drag apps together to group related tools.

  • Adjusting layout: Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Start for layout preferences.

2. Use Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops keep your workspace organized by separating tasks. For example:

  • Create a dedicated desktop for work-related apps and another for personal tasks.

  • Switch between them easily with Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow.

3. Harness Snap Layouts and Snap Groups

Snap Layouts and Snap Groups improve multitasking by arranging windows for quick access.

  • Hover over a window’s maximize button to select a Snap Layout.

  • Snap multiple windows together to form a Snap Group that you can reopen with a click.

4. Stay Focused with Focus Assist

Minimize distractions during meetings or deep work sessions:

  • Access Focus Assist through Settings or search for it in the taskbar.

  • Set automatic rules for when to activate it, such as during presentations or specific hours.

5. Explore Widgets

Widgets provide at-a-glance updates on essentials like weather, news, and schedules.

  • Open them with Win + W or from the taskbar.

  • Customize your widgets to display content that supports your workflow.

6. Optimize Your Taskbar

A streamlined taskbar can make navigation faster and less distracting:

  • Pin essential apps for quick access.

  • Remove unused icons and adjust settings like auto-hiding to keep your desktop clean.

7. Learn Key Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save seconds that add up over time. Start with these:

  • Win + E: Open File Explorer.

  • Win + L: Lock your screen.

  • Win + I: Open Settings.

8. Adjust Power and Battery Settings

For mobile professionals or energy-conscious users, optimize your power settings:

  • Use Battery Saver when unplugged to extend life.

  • Adjust power modes in Settings > System > Power & battery for the best balance between performance and energy use.

9. Automate Cleanup with Storage Sense

Windows 11’s Storage Sense can help you manage disk space efficiently:

  • Enable it in Settings > System > Storage to automatically delete temporary files.

  • Customize cleanup schedules for tasks like emptying the recycle bin.

10. Accessibility Features for Productivity

Windows 11 is designed with accessibility in mind:

  • Magnifier zooms in on hard-to-read content with Win + Plus.

  • Narrator reads text aloud for easier comprehension.

Why These Tips Matter

Keeping your operating system optimized isn’t just about convenience; it’s about maintaining productivity and ensuring your technology works seamlessly to support your goals.

Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, or any other industry, understanding how to maximize the tools at your disposal can give your business a competitive edge.

Need a hand boosting your organization’s productivity?  Simple IT is ready to help and is already supporting businesses you know throughout Northern Kentucky.  Give us a call at 859-449-7878 or drop us an email to info@simple-it.us and we’ll be glad to hear what assistance we can deliver to help keep IT simple for you!

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This Article has been Republished with Permission from The Technology Press.