With Windows 10 support officially ending in October 2025, there’s no better time to consider upgrading to Windows 11. As the latest operating system from Microsoft, Windows 11 offers not only a fresh look and feel but also a range of tools designed to enhance productivity and make everyday tasks simpler. By upgrading early, you can avoid disruptions while gaining access to features that streamline your workflow.

Already using Windows 11, or planning the switch soon? Here are some smart settings and tips to get the most out of your experience.

Your Start Menu is your gateway to efficiency. With Windows 11, you can easily make it work for you:

• Pin Frequently Used Apps: Right-click any app and select “Pin to Start” to keep essential programs just a click away. Imagine having all your daily tools lined up and ready to go without rummaging through a cluttered list.
• Organise into Folders: Drag and drop apps on top of each other to create folders. Create categories like “Work Tools,” “Creative Suite,” or “Entertainment” to keep everything neat and within reach.

A well-organised Start Menu saves time and reduces stress, so you can jump straight into what matters.

Separate your work and personal life with Virtual Desktops:

• Create a New Desktop: Click the Task View button or press Win + Tab, then click “New Desktop” to set up a fresh workspace. For instance, have one desktop for work and another for gaming or personal browsing.
• Switch Between Desktops: Use Ctrl + Win + Left/Right Arrow to seamlessly toggle between your desktops. No more distractions from mixing personal and professional windows.

Virtual Desktops let you stay focused by keeping your tasks organised and distractions at bay.

Multitasking is easier than ever with Snap features:

• Use Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximise button on any window to see layout options. Choose one to neatly arrange your apps, perfect for comparing documents or managing multiple projects.
• Create Snap Groups: Snap multiple windows into a layout. Windows 11 remembers these groups, so you can quickly restore them from the taskbar. For instance, snap your email, calendar, and project tracker into one cohesive view.

Say goodbye to juggling windows and hello to streamlined multitasking.

Minimise distractions and stay in the zone:

• Enable Focus Assist: Search “Focus” in the taskbar and configure your preferences. Set up sessions to block notifications during critical work hours or intense study periods.
• Set Automatic Rules: Schedule Focus Assist to activate during specific times or events, such as when playing a game, duplicating your display, or during preset work hours.

Focus Assist is like having a personal guard against interruptions, ensuring you stay productive.

Make your Taskbar a productivity powerhouse:

• Pin Apps to Taskbar: Right-click any app and choose “Pin to taskbar” for one-click access to your most-used programs.
• Adjust Taskbar Settings: Customise its behaviour, like auto-hiding in desktop mode or showing badges on taskbar buttons, by right-clicking and selecting “Taskbar settings.”

Tailor your Taskbar to your workflow, making every click count.

Get things done faster with these handy shortcuts:

• Win + E: Open File Explorer to quickly locate files.
• Win + I: Open Settings to tweak system preferences.
• Win + D: Show or hide the desktop instantly.
• Win + L: Lock your PC when stepping away.
• Alt + Tab: Switch between open apps effortlessly.

Learning these shortcuts is like having a fast lane for everyday tasks.

Extend your device’s battery life and optimise performance:

• Adjust Power Mode: Head to Settings > System > Power & battery to choose between performance, balanced, or power-saving modes. Need to eke out more time from your laptop? Opt for Power Saver.
• Enable Battery Saver: Activate this feature when your battery is low or you’re away from a power source for extended periods. It automatically limits background activity to conserve energy.

Smart power management ensures your device is ready when you need it most.

Keep your PC clutter-free with Storage Sense:

• Enable Storage Sense: Navigate to Settings > System > Storage, and turn it on to automate cleanups. Say goodbye to unnecessary files taking up space.
• Set Cleanup Schedules: Configure it to remove temporary files, recycle bin contents, and more on a schedule that works for you. It’s like having a digital housekeeper.

Storage Sense helps maintain peak performance and keeps your PC feeling fresh and responsive.

Sticking with Windows 10 as it approaches its end-of-life can leave your systems vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues. Windows 11 not only delivers enhanced security features but also improves usability and performance, making it a wise choice for businesses and individuals alike.

Ready to make the switch or optimise your setup? At Orbits IT, we’re here to help. Whether you need assistance with the upgrade or want more productivity tips tailored to your needs, we’ve got your back. Think of us as your tech-savvy friends who simplify the complex, ensuring your IT runs smoothly so you can focus on what really matters.

Need help? Get in touch with us today to take the stress out of IT upgrades.