Windows 11, The Basics

by Billy J Long Guidance, PSA Articles

Article (PSA‑0016)

Microsoft announced that Windows 11 will replace Windows 10 as the latest desktop operating system. The upgrade will be offered **free of charge** to eligible Windows 10 PCs, but only if the hardware meets the new system requirements.

Minimum System Requirements (as of 2025)

  • 64‑bit processor (dual‑core ≥ 1 GHz). Supported families include:
    • Intel 8th‑generation or newer (i3/i5/i7/i9)
    • AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer
  • 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended for smoother performance)
  • 64 GB storage (SSD preferred for faster load times)
  • Display: ≥ 720p (1280 × 720) with at least a 9‑inch diagonal
  • UEFI firmware with **Secure Boot** enabled
  • TPM 2.0 chip (hardware‑based security)
  • DirectX 12 compatible graphics (or later) – required for the new visual features and gaming enhancements

Key Differences from Windows 10

  • 64‑bit only – No 32‑bit edition. Existing 32‑bit applications will run under Windows 11’s 64‑bit compatibility layer.
  • New user interface – centered Start menu, refreshed taskbar, and rounded‑corner windows. It’s a visual shift, but familiar functionality remains.
  • Gaming‑focused features – Auto HDR, DirectStorage, and DirectX 12 Ultimate. Helpful for gamers, neutral for most business users.
  • Update cadence – Microsoft is moving to **one major feature update per year** (plus security patches), which should reduce the disruption many users experienced with two‑per‑year rollouts in Windows 10.

Upgrade Path

  • The upgrade is **free** for eligible Windows 10 devices.
  • There is **no deadline** to start the upgrade; you can remain on Windows 10 until you choose to move.
  • When you do upgrade, the installer will verify hardware compatibility. If your PC falls short, you’ll be prompted to either continue with a limited install or keep Windows 10.
  • OEMs (computer manufacturers) will continue to purchase Windows 11 licenses for new systems.

Quick Compatibility Checklist

  1. Run the PC Health Check tool to see if your machine meets the requirements.
  2. Confirm the BIOS/UEFI settings have Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 enabled.
  3. Check for at least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB is better) and 64 GB of free storage.
  4. Verify the graphics driver supports DirectX 12 (or later).
  5. If any item is missing, consider a hardware upgrade (e.g., adding more RAM or swapping to an SSD).

What This Means for You

For most business users the shift to Windows 11 will be a modest change—core productivity apps still work, and the single‑per‑year update cycle should make life simpler. The new UI may require a short period of adjustment, but it is designed to be more streamlined.

Need Guidance?

If you have questions about Windows 11 compatibility, upgrading your hardware, or simply want help planning the transition, call PSA Computer Services at (707) 506‑6802. We’ll walk you through the process and make sure your system is ready.