Navigate in Windows 11
Windows 11 is the latest upgrade to Microsoft Windows that has replaced Windows 10.
There are many enhancements that come along with Windows 11:
- New Design
- Changed Taskbar
- Overhauled Start Menu
- Redesigned Settings App
- Updated File Explorer
- New Window Snap Layouts
- Virtual Desktops
- Shut Down Windows 11
- Additional Resources
New Design
Windows 11 features a new design with a centered Start menu and Taskbar. It features a clean design with rounded corners and pastel shades.
The Taskbar
All the icons are now centered on the taskbar, instead of lined up from left to right. The Start button is now the leftmost icon on the centered taskbar.
Personalize the Taskbar
- Right-click on the Taskbar and choose Taskbar settings to access personalization options.
System Tray
The System Tray has been modified in Windows 11. The Action Center has been split into two separate flyouts: one for notifications and the other for quick settings.
The Start Menu
The Start menu no longer includes live tiles (square icons). Instead, the Start menu shows three rows of icons along its top half (Pinned), with icons for frequently used apps on the bottom half (Recommended).
- Click All apps for a full listing of apps.
- Right-click on the app and select Pin to taskbar to pin an app to the Taskbar.
- Right-click on the app and select Pin to Start to add an app to the Pinned section of the Start menu.
Search Bar
You can search for a specific app, file, setting, etc. using the Search tool.
- Click Search in the Taskbar and begin typing.
Redesigned Settings App
Although Control Panel is still available, Windows 11 includes a new Settings app with many improvements and new settings.
- Click the Start menu and click on Settings to navigate to Settings.
Updated File Explorer
As with many other applications in Windows 11, File Explorer has been updated with new functionality. You can look at different files in different locations at the same time by using multiple tabs in File Explorer.
- Create a new tab by clicking the + button and delete a tab by clicking the x button.
Right-Click Context Menu
Perform basic actions on files more easily with the modern right-click context menu. When you right-click on a file or folder, there is now a list of icons for quick access at the top of the context menu: Cut, Copy, Rename, Share, and Delete.
- Select Show more options to access the legacy context menu.
Snap Layouts
Windows 11 comes with Snap assist, a feature that makes it easy to organize your windows on the desktop. There are options between four layouts for up to four windows.
- Hover your cursor over the Maximize/Restore button to access Snap assist.
Virtual Desktops
Virtual desktops are used to create a separate desktop so that you could have one desktop for one project and a second for another. In Windows 11, you can now have a different wallpaper for each desktop, making it easier to distinguish one from another.
Create a Virtual Desktop
- Hover over or click on the Task view icon in the taskbar and click on the New desktop thumbnail.
- Click the Task view icon and select the other desktop to move from one desktop to another.
Change the Background of a Desktop
- Select the virtual desktop, right-click a blank spot on the desktop, select Personalize in the menu and click on Background.
Shut Down Windows 11
- Click the Start menu, click the Power button, and choose from the provided options: Sleep, Shut down, and Restart.
Additional Resources
Windows 11 Application Compatibility and Known Issues at UChicago