Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft. With a fresh look and new features, along with a focus on enhanced performance, security and user interface, Windows 11 aims to improve productivity and collaboration for all users.
What’s New in Windows 11
Windows 11 brings a range of exciting updates and new features designed to enhance your computing experience, including a sleek new interface, improved security measures and advanced collaboration tools.
Access Packages: Gain access to curated packages of essential apps tailored for Syracuse University faculty and staff. You can even select the software you want before your computer is updated.
Enhanced Performance: Optimized for speed and efficiency, allowing for faster boot times and improved system responsiveness.
Streamlined Log-In: Enjoy a faster and more secure log-in process.
Modern User Interface: Sleek and intuitive design, making it easier to access your most-used applications and files.
Virtual Desktops: Create and customize multiple desktops for different projects or tasks.
Microsoft Teams Integration: Deeper integration with Teams for seamless collaboration and virtual meetings.
Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: Organize apps and windows with new layouts to enhance multitasking.
Moving to Windows 11
Your local IT staff will contact you regarding the best time to move your workstation(s) to the Windows 11 operating system.
Configurations and FAQs
The Windows Start button and search box are now located in the center at the bottom (instead of bottom far-left). When you click the Windows Start button, it shows your pinned apps and recommended files. You can also click the “All” button in the upper-right corner of the Start menu to get to the full alphabetic listing of applications. In the bottom lower-right corner of that Start menu, you will now find the Power button to Lock, Sleep, Shutdown or Restart the computer.
Connecting Laptop to Monitor(s) for the First Time
By default, your monitor(s) will mirror the display on your laptop. To adjust your display, see “Change your screen resolution and layout in Windows” from Microsoft Support.
Printer Setup
This is timing-dependent, so you might not see printers right away at the initial setup.
- Verify Printers are installed
- SelectStart > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners
- Select your primary printer, then selectSet as default
Adobe Installation
- Open Adobe Creative Cloud
- Login to Adobe with SU email and follow multi-factor authentication steps
- Locate Adobe Acrobat > Install
- Make Adobe Acrobat Default Viewer (see Adobe’s “Set Acrobat as default PDF viewer on Windows” article for more information)
Zoom App Configuration
You can still use the web version if you prefer. To configure the app:
- Locate Zoom – Windows>All Apps
- Login with SSO
- Locate your Profile icon in upper right > Click check for Updates. (You should do this regularly—always a good step when you are done with Zoom after a meeting.)
How to Adjust Sound and Notifications
With Windows 11, the default sound notification are on. If you’d prefer to turn them off, here’s how:
- Settings>System>Sound>Advanced>More Sounds Settings>Sounds Tab>Uncheck Play Windows Startup Sound
- Settings>System>Notifications>Click down arrow (carat) next to On, to find the other settings and uncheck “Allow Notifications to play sounds” or locate specific apps in the list below and adjust desired settings.
Adding Shortcuts to the Taskbar
- Locate the App and click and drag to Taskbar OR Locate the App>right click>click Pin to Taskbar
Getting to the G: Drive
- Open File Explorer (yellow folder icon) >Click the carat symbol ( > ) next to This PC and locate G:/[Your School, College or Unit]
Locking Your Computer Screen When You Walk Away
- Click the Windows logo key and the letter L together OR Click Windows Start button > click Power button in bottom right > click Lock
Questions?
Please contact your academic or administrative support personnel for any questions regarding Windows 11.