Beginning in Fall 2024, Clark ITS will begin distributing PCs using the Windows 11 operating system to faculty and staff eligible for new devices. Windows 11, the latest operating system for PCs, is similar to the university’s current operating system of Windows 10 but has a few important differences and exciting updates.  

Using the latest operating system provides a streamlined experience and ensures Windows computers are secure, fast, and functioning at their best. 

What’s changing? 

Taskbar 

The taskbar (the black bar stretching across the bottom of the screen) will be centered rather than aligned to the left bottom corner. You may also see new icons, including task view, widgets, and chat (read more about task view below). You can turn these features on or off by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings. 

Task View 

Open

One of the new features within the Windows 11 taskbar is task view. Clicking this icon allows you to see all open windows at a glance, making it easier to navigate between different documents and apps. You can also create different desktops (for example, a different desktop for each different project you’re currently on) and easily switch between the two using this button. 

Open

File Explorer 

On Windows computers, File Explorer is the tool used to locate and organize files and folders in different locations, such as Desktop or Documents. In Windows 11, common file management actions, such as copy, cut, paste, and rename, are now represented by icons conveniently located in the top of the window. 

Notepad 

Notepad is a preinstalled note-taking app within the Windows operating system. This app is now able to auto-save notes for added convenience.  

Focus Mode 

Need to get stuff done without being distracted by notifications? Windows 11 offers focus mode, which sets your computer to Do Not Disturb and removes notification icons for a set period of time. For longer working sessions, Windows 11 also adds short 5-minute breaks for increased productivity. Click on the bell icon located next to the date and time to find this feature.