Windows 11 brings a range of 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 login 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. When you click the Windows Start button, it shows your pinned apps and recommended files. You also can 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, shut down 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
Please note: You might not see printers right away after the initial setup.
- Verify printers are installed
- Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners
- Select your primary printer then select Set as Default
Adobe Installation
- Open Adobe Creative Cloud
- Log in to Adobe with University email and follow multi-factor authentication steps
- Locate Adobe Acrobat > Install
- Make Adobe Acrobat your default PDF viewer (see Adobe’s “Set Acrobat as default PDF viewer on Windows” article for more information)
Zoom App Configuration
The web version remains an option. To configure the app:
- Locate Zoom – Windows > All Apps
- Log in with single sign-on (SSO)
- Locate your profile icon in upper-right > Click Check for Updates
How to Adjust Sound and Notifications
With Windows 11, the default sound notifications are on. If you would 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 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 chevron 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.