Computer Basics: Working with Windows 11

1.1 Overview of Windows 11

Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, officially released in October 2021. It introduces a fresh, modern design, improved performance, and new features aimed at enhancing productivity and user experience. Windows 11 builds on the foundation of Windows 10 but with significant updates that make it more intuitive and visually appealing.

Key Features:

• New Start Menu and Taskbar: The Start Menu is now centered on the screen by default, providing a clean and streamlined interface. The Taskbar also features new icons, animations, and customization options.
• Snap Layouts and Snap Groups: These features make multitasking easier by allowing you to organize and snap open windows into different layouts. Snap Groups let you switch between multiple apps quickly.
• Virtual Desktops: Windows 11 improves virtual desktops, allowing you to create and customize multiple desktops for different tasks or workspaces.
• Widgets: A new Widgets panel provides personalized news, weather, calendar, and more at a glance.
• Microsoft Teams Integration: Windows 11 integrates Microsoft Teams directly into the Taskbar, making it easier to connect with others through chat, voice, or video calls.
• Gaming Enhancements: Windows 11 includes Auto HDR, DirectStorage, and better support for high-end gaming hardware, providing a superior gaming experience.
• Redesigned Settings and File Explorer: The Settings app and File Explorer have been redesigned to be more user-friendly and visually consistent with the overall look of Windows 11.

1.2 New Features and Enhancements

Windows 11 brings several new features and enhancements over its predecessor, Windows 10. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable improvements:

• User Interface (UI) Enhancements:
  • Rounded corners and a softer visual design give Windows 11 a modern look.
  • Enhanced animations provide smoother transitions between tasks.
  • New icons and fonts contribute to a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing experience.
• Improved Touch and Pen Support:
  • Windows 11 is optimized for touchscreens, with larger touch targets and gestures.
  • Enhanced support for digital pens, making it easier to take notes or draw directly on the screen.
• Performance Improvements:
  • Faster boot times and better power efficiency, especially on laptops and tablets.
  • Improved memory management ensures that foreground applications get more system resources.
• Enhanced Window Management:
  • Snap Layouts and Snap Groups make it easier to organize your workspace.
  • Improved support for multiple monitors, with better handling of apps when connecting or disconnecting external displays.
• Microsoft Store Redesign:
  • A redesigned Microsoft Store with a wider selection of apps, including support for Android apps through the Amazon Appstore.

1.3 System Requirements for Windows 11

Before upgrading to or installing Windows 11, it’s important to ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster with 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit processor or System on a Chip (SoC).
• RAM: 4 GB or more.
• Storage: 64 GB or more of available storage.
• System Firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable.
• TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0.
• Graphics Card: DirectX 12 compatible graphics / WDDM 2.x.
• Display: >9” with HD Resolution (720p).
• Internet Connection: Internet connectivity is necessary to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features.

You can check if your PC is eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade by using the PC Health Check tool provided by Microsoft.

1.4 Upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11

If your device meets the system requirements, upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11 is straightforward:

1. Backup Your Data: Before upgrading, it’s essential to back up your files and data to prevent any loss.
2. Check for Compatibility: Use the PC Health Check tool to ensure your device is ready for Windows 11.
3. Update Windows 10: Make sure your current Windows 10 installation is up to date. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
4. Download Windows 11: If your device is eligible, you’ll receive a notification in Windows Update when Windows 11 is available. You can download and install it directly from there.
5. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The installation process will guide you through the steps to upgrade. Ensure your device remains plugged in and connected to the internet during the process.
6. Post-Upgrade Setup: After installation, you may need to configure settings, install updates, and re-install some apps.

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This introductory section lays the foundation for understanding Windows 11, its new features, system requirements, and the upgrade process. The following sections will dive deeper into using and configuring Windows 11 to suit your needs.

2. Installation of Windows 11

2.1 Preparing for Installation

Before installing Windows 11, it’s essential to prepare your system to ensure a smooth installation process. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Check System Requirements:
   • Ensure that your device meets the minimum system requirements for Windows 11. Refer to the requirements listed in Part 1.3 of the tutorial.
2. Backup Your Data:
   • Back up all important files, documents, and data. You can use external drives, cloud storage (like OneDrive), or a backup utility.
3. Check for Firmware and Driver Updates:
   • Visit your computer manufacturer’s website to check for any firmware or driver updates that might be required for Windows 11.
4. Disable BitLocker (if applicable):
   • If you have BitLocker encryption enabled, consider temporarily disabling it to avoid any issues during installation.

2.2 Clean Installation vs. Upgrade

When installing Windows 11, you have two primary options:

1. Clean Installation:
   • A clean installation wipes your device, removing all files, applications, and settings, and installs a fresh copy of Windows 11.
   • This method is recommended if you want a fresh start or if you’re experiencing issues with your current installation of Windows 10.
2. Upgrade:
   • Upgrading keeps your files, apps, and most settings intact, simply replacing the Windows 10 OS with Windows 11.
   • This method is easier and quicker, ideal for users who want to transition to Windows 11 without losing their existing setup.

2.3 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Option 1: Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11

1. Open Windows Update:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Click Check for updates.
2. Download Windows 11:
   • If your device is eligible, you’ll see the option to download and install Windows 11.
   • Click Download and install.
3. Accept License Terms:
   • Review and accept the license terms to proceed.
4. Installation Process:
   • The installation will begin automatically. Your device will restart several times during the process.
   • Make sure your device remains plugged in and connected to the internet.
5. Post-Upgrade Setup:
   • Once the installation is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to set up Windows 11.
   • Check for any additional updates and install them.

Option 2: Clean Installation of Windows 11

1. Download the Windows 11 Installation Media:
   • Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant or Windows 11 ISO file.
2. Create a Bootable USB Drive:
   • Use a tool like the Windows Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive with the Windows 11 installation files.
   • Ensure the USB drive is at least 8 GB in size.
3. Boot from the USB Drive:
   • Insert the USB drive into your computer and restart it.
   • Enter the BIOS/UEFI settings by pressing the appropriate key during startup (usually F2, F10, DEL, or ESC).
   • Set the USB drive as the primary boot device and save the changes.
4. Start the Installation:
   • Once booted from the USB drive, you’ll see the Windows Setup screen.
   • Select your language, time, and keyboard preferences, then click Next.
   • Click Install now to begin the installation process.
5. Enter Your Product Key:
   • If prompted, enter your Windows 11 product key. If you’re upgrading from a valid Windows 10 installation, you can click I don’t have a product key to skip this step.
6. Choose Installation Type:
   • Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced) for a clean installation.
   • Choose the partition where you want to install Windows 11. You can delete existing partitions (if necessary) and create a new one.
7. Complete the Installation:
   • Windows 11 will now install. Your computer will restart several times during the process.
   • Once complete, follow the on-screen instructions to configure your settings, such as creating a user account, setting up a password, and configuring privacy settings.

2.4 Post-Installation Setup

After installing Windows 11, whether through an upgrade or a clean installation, follow these steps to complete the setup:

1. Sign In with a Microsoft Account:
   • If you have a Microsoft account, sign in to sync settings, apps, and files across devices.
   • If you prefer, you can create or use a local account instead.
2. Install Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for any updates. Install them to ensure your system is up to date.
3. Reinstall Apps:
   • If you performed a clean installation, you’ll need to reinstall your applications.
   • Visit the Microsoft Store or the official websites of the software you need.
4. Restore Files:
   • If you backed up your files before installation, restore them to their original locations.
5. Personalize Your System:
   • Customize your desktop, theme, and other personalization settings to suit your preferences.
6. Check for Driver Updates:
   • Visit your device manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers for your hardware components.
7. Set Up Security Features:
   • Enable Windows Security features like Windows Defender, Firewall, and BitLocker (if applicable).

3. Navigating the Windows 11 Interface

3.1 Exploring the Start Menu

The Start Menu in Windows 11 has undergone a significant redesign, offering a more centered and streamlined experience compared to previous versions.

1. Accessing the Start Menu:
   • The Start Menu is located at the center of the taskbar by default. Click on the Windows icon to open it.
   • You can also press the Windows key on your keyboard to open the Start Menu.
2. Start Menu Layout:
   • Pinned Apps: At the top of the Start Menu, you’ll find a grid of pinned apps. You can customize this area by pinning your most-used apps for quick access.
   • All Apps: Click on All apps at the top-right corner to view a list of all installed applications.
   • Recommended: Below the pinned apps, you’ll find a section called “Recommended,” which shows recently opened files and newly installed apps. This section can be customized or hidden in the settings.
3. Customizing the Start Menu:
   • To pin an app to the Start Menu, right-click the app in the “All apps” list and select Pin to Start.
   • To remove a pinned app, right-click the app in the Start Menu and select Unpin from Start.
   • You can resize the Start Menu by dragging its edges if you prefer a larger or smaller view.
4. Searching from the Start Menu:
   • The search bar at the top of the Start Menu allows you to search for apps, files, settings, and even web content. Just start typing your query to see the results.

3.2 Using the Taskbar and System Tray

The Taskbar in Windows 11 is the bar at the bottom of your screen that contains the Start Menu, pinned apps, system tray, and other essential features.

1. Pinned Apps on the Taskbar:
   • Frequently used apps can be pinned to the Taskbar for quick access. Right-click an app in the Start Menu or All apps list and select Pin to taskbar.
   • To remove a pinned app, right-click the app on the Taskbar and choose Unpin from taskbar.
2. Taskbar Customization:
   • You can customize the appearance and behavior of the Taskbar by right-clicking on the Taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings. Here, you can adjust the position, color, and icons displayed on the Taskbar.
   • You can also enable or disable system icons like the search bar, Task View, and Widgets from this settings menu.
3. System Tray:
   • The system tray is located on the right side of the Taskbar and displays icons for system functions like volume, network, battery status, and notifications.
   • You can access the Action Center by clicking the notification icon in the system tray, which displays notifications and quick actions like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and screen brightness controls.
4. Task View and Virtual Desktops:
   • Task View is a feature that allows you to view and manage all your open windows and virtual desktops. Click the Task View button on the Taskbar or press Windows + Tab to open it.
   • Virtual desktops allow you to create multiple desktops for different tasks or projects. In Task View, click New desktop to create a new virtual desktop, and switch between them by clicking on the respective desktop thumbnail.

3.3 Managing Virtual Desktops

Windows 11 enhances the virtual desktop experience, making it easier to organize your workspace.

1. Creating and Using Virtual Desktops:
   • To create a new virtual desktop, open Task View (Windows + Tab) and click on New desktop.
   • You can switch between desktops by clicking on the desktop thumbnails in Task View or using the keyboard shortcut Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow.
2. Customizing Virtual Desktops:
   • Each virtual desktop can have its own set of open applications and windows, allowing you to organize your workflow by task or project.
   • Right-click on a desktop thumbnail in Task View to rename or close the desktop. Closing a virtual desktop will move its open windows to the desktop that is next in line.
3. Moving Windows Between Desktops:
   • In Task View, you can drag and drop open windows from one desktop to another.
   • Alternatively, right-click on an open window in Task View and select Move to to send it to a different desktop.

3.4 Customizing the Desktop and Themes

Personalizing your desktop environment can enhance your productivity and comfort while using Windows 11.

1. Changing the Desktop Background:
   • Right-click on an empty space on the desktop and select Personalize.
   • In the Background section, you can choose from Windows’ default wallpapers, solid colors, or use your own image as the background. You can also set the picture position (Fill, Fit, Stretch, etc.) to suit your display.
2. Changing the Theme:
   • Themes in Windows 11 include a combination of desktop background, window color, sounds, and cursor style.
   • In the Personalization settings, click on Themes to choose from default themes or download new ones from the Microsoft Store.
   • You can also customize individual elements of a theme, such as the accent color and sound scheme.
3. Adjusting the Lock Screen:
   • The lock screen is the screen you see when you lock your computer or before you sign in.
   • Go to Settings > Personalization > Lock screen to customize the lock screen background, choose apps to show quick status, and configure the behavior of the lock screen.
4. Taskbar and Window Color:
   • To change the color of your Taskbar, Start Menu, and window borders, go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
   • Here, you can select an accent color or let Windows pick one based on your background. You can also choose whether the accent color is applied to the Start Menu and Taskbar or only to window borders.

3.5 Widgets Panel

Widgets are a new feature in Windows 11 that provide personalized information at a glance.

1. Accessing Widgets:
   • Click on the Widgets icon in the Taskbar (a square divided into four quadrants) or press Windows + W to open the Widgets panel.
2. Customizing Widgets:
   • The Widgets panel includes a variety of widgets like weather, calendar, news, and more.
   • You can customize which widgets are displayed by clicking the Add widgets button at the bottom of the panel. You can also rearrange widgets by dragging them around the panel.
3. Personalizing Widget Content:
   • Some widgets allow further customization of content. For example, you can personalize the news feed by selecting your interests and preferred news sources.
   • Click on the three dots on any widget to access settings and customization options.

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This section covers the essentials of navigating and customizing the Windows 11 interface, helping users get familiar with the new layout and features introduced in this version. Whether you’re new to Windows or upgrading from an older version, these tips will help you make the most of the Windows 11 experience.

4. Configuring System Settings

Configuring system settings in Windows 11 allows you to personalize your experience, optimize performance, and ensure your system is running smoothly. This tutorial will guide you through essential system settings and customization options.

4.1 Accessing the Settings App

The Settings app is the central hub for configuring your system. Here’s how to access it:

1. Opening the Settings App:
   • Click on the Start Menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
   • Alternatively, press Windows + I to open the Settings app directly.
2. Navigating the Settings App:
   • The Settings app is divided into several categories, each with specific options. Key categories include:
     • System: Display, notifications, power, and storage settings.
     • Devices: Settings for connected devices like printers, Bluetooth, and USB devices.
     • Network & Internet: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, VPN, and airplane mode settings.
     • Personalization: Themes, colors, lock screen, and Start Menu customization.
     • Accounts: User accounts, sign-in options, and family settings.
     • Time & Language: Date, time, region, and language settings.
     • Accessibility: Options for improving accessibility and ease of use.
     • Privacy & Security: Permissions, security, and Windows Update settings.

4.2 System Settings

System settings allow you to adjust essential aspects of your device’s performance and behavior.

1. Display Settings:
   • Go to Settings > System > Display to adjust screen resolution, brightness, and orientation.
   • Multiple Displays: If you’re using more than one monitor, you can configure their layout, resolution, and primary display settings here.
   • Night Light: Enable Night Light to reduce blue light emission, which can help reduce eye strain during nighttime use. Adjust the strength and schedule in this section.
2. Sound Settings:
   • Navigate to Settings > System > Sound to manage your audio devices, volume levels, and sound output.
   • Input Devices: Configure your microphone and adjust its sensitivity.
   • Output Devices: Choose your preferred speakers or headphones and test audio levels.
   • Advanced Sound Options: You can adjust the volume for individual apps and set specific output/input devices for them.
3. Notifications & Actions:
   • Go to Settings > System > Notifications & actions to manage notification settings.
   • Notification Settings: Turn notifications on or off for specific apps, adjust priority levels, and configure quick actions that appear in the Action Center.
4. Power & Battery Settings:
   • In Settings > System > Power & battery, you can manage power plans and monitor battery usage.
   • Power Mode: Choose between different power modes (Balanced, Best performance, Best power efficiency) to optimize battery life or performance.
   • Battery Saver: Enable Battery Saver to extend battery life by limiting background activity and reducing screen brightness when the battery is low.
5. Storage Settings:
   • Go to Settings > System > Storage to manage disk space and configure storage options.
   • Storage Sense: Enable Storage Sense to automatically free up space by deleting temporary files and managing local cloud content.
   • Disk Cleanup: View the breakdown of your storage usage and manually delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files, downloads, and recycle bin contents.
6. Multitasking Settings:
   • In Settings > System > Multitasking, you can configure how windows snap and manage virtual desktops.
   • Snap Windows: Enable and customize window snapping features, allowing you to quickly arrange open windows on your screen.
   • Virtual Desktops: Manage virtual desktop settings, including whether to show open windows on all desktops or only the current one.

4.3 Personalization Settings

Personalizing your Windows 11 experience helps make the system feel more comfortable and tailored to your preferences.

1. Background and Lock Screen:
   • Go to Settings > Personalization > Background to choose a background image, solid color, or slideshow for your desktop.
   • In Settings > Personalization > Lock screen, customize your lock screen background and choose which apps can show quick status.
2. Themes:
   • Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Themes to apply a theme that changes your desktop background, window color, sounds, and cursor style.
   • You can download additional themes from the Microsoft Store or create your own by customizing each element individually.
3. Start Menu Customization:
   • Go to Settings > Personalization > Start to adjust the layout and behavior of the Start Menu.
   • Show More Pins: Enable this option if you want more pinned apps to be visible on the Start Menu.
   • Folders: Choose which folders appear on the Start Menu for quick access.
4. Taskbar Customization:
   • In Settings > Personalization > Taskbar, you can choose which icons appear on the Taskbar and adjust the Taskbar’s alignment (left or center).
   • Taskbar Behaviors: Configure options such as hiding the Taskbar in desktop mode or showing badges on Taskbar buttons.
5. Fonts:
   • Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Fonts to view installed fonts and download new ones from the Microsoft Store. You can also preview how text appears with different fonts and manage font settings.

4.4 Network & Internet Settings

Managing your network and internet settings ensures you stay connected and secure.

1. Wi-Fi and Ethernet:
   • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi to manage wireless networks, view available networks, and configure connection properties.
   • For wired connections, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet to configure your Ethernet adapter settings.
2. VPN (Virtual Private Network):
   • In Settings > Network & Internet > VPN, you can set up and manage VPN connections for secure internet browsing and access to remote networks.
   • Add a VPN Connection: Enter the VPN provider’s details and your login credentials to establish a new connection.
3. Airplane Mode:
   • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Airplane mode to quickly disable all wireless communications, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connections.
4. Data Usage:
   • In Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage, monitor your data consumption over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. You can also set data limits to prevent overuse and configure background data restrictions.
5. Proxy Settings:
   • Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy to configure proxy settings for your internet connection. This is useful if you’re accessing the internet through a corporate or school network.

4.5 Accounts and Sign-in Options

Managing user accounts and sign-in options allows you to control access to your computer and personalize your experience.

1. Managing User Accounts:
   • Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info to manage your Microsoft or local account details.
   • In Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, you can add new accounts, including family members or other users, with specific access levels.
2. Sign-in Options:
   • Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options to manage how you sign into your device.
   • Windows Hello: Set up facial recognition, fingerprint, or PIN for quick and secure sign-ins.
   • Password: Manage your password, and set up or change it as needed.
   • Dynamic Lock: Enable Dynamic Lock to automatically lock your PC when you step away, using a paired Bluetooth device (like your smartphone).
3. Sync Settings:
   • In Settings > Accounts > Sync your settings, you can choose to sync various settings across devices using your Microsoft account. This includes themes, passwords, language preferences, and more.
4. Work or School Accounts:
   • If you need to connect to a work or school network, go to Settings > Accounts > Access work or school to add your account and connect to organizational resources.

4.6 Privacy & Security Settings

Ensuring your privacy and security is crucial when configuring your system.

1. Privacy Settings:
   • Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > General to manage basic privacy settings, such as allowing apps to use your advertising ID or showing suggested content in apps.
   • App Permissions: Navigate to the various app permission categories (e.g., Location, Camera, Microphone) to control which apps can access these features.
2. Security Settings:
   • In Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security, access the Windows Security Center, where you can manage features like virus protection, firewall settings, and device security.
   • Virus & Threat Protection: Ensure real-time protection is enabled and run periodic scans to detect and remove malware.
   • Firewall & Network Protection: Manage your firewall settings to protect your device from unauthorized access.
3. Windows Update:
   • Navigate to Settings > Windows Update to manage system updates, including checking for new updates, viewing update history, and configuring update settings.
   • Pause Updates: You can pause updates temporarily if you don’t want to install them right away.
   • Active Hours: Set active hours to prevent Windows from restarting your device for updates during times when you’re typically using it.
4. Backup and Restore:
   • In Settings > Update & Security > Backup, configure options for backing up your files to OneDrive or an external drive.
   • File History: Enable File History to back up your files automatically and restore previous versions if needed.

5. Managing Applications and Software

Managing applications and software effectively in Windows 11 is essential for maintaining a streamlined and efficient workspace. This section will guide you through installing, updating, organizing, and troubleshooting apps and software.

5.1 Installing and Uninstalling Applications

1. Installing Applications:
   • Microsoft Store:
     • Open the Microsoft Store from the Start Menu or Taskbar.
     • Browse or search for apps using the search bar at the top.
     • Click on the app you want to install, then click Get (for free apps) or Buy (for paid apps).
     • The app will download and install automatically. You can launch it from the Start Menu or directly from the Microsoft Store.
   • Downloading from the Web:
     • For apps not available in the Microsoft Store, download the installation file (usually .exe or .msi) from the developer’s website.
     • Once downloaded, double-click the file to start the installation process.
     • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
2. Uninstalling Applications:
   • From the Start Menu:
     • Click the Start Menu and locate the app you want to uninstall.
     • Right-click the app and select Uninstall.
     • Follow the prompts to remove the app from your system.
   • From the Settings App:
     • Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
     • Scroll through the list of installed applications or use the search bar to find the app you want to remove.
     • Click on the three dots next to the app name and select Uninstall.
     • Confirm the uninstallation process if prompted.

5.2 Managing Default Applications

Default apps in Windows 11 are the applications your system uses by default to open certain types of files or perform specific actions, such as browsing the web or opening images.

1. Setting Default Apps:
   • Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
   • Scroll through the list to find specific app categories (e.g., web browser, email) and click on the one you want to change.
   • Select the app you want to set as the default from the list that appears.
2. Associating File Types with Applications:
   • In the Default apps section, scroll down and click on Choose defaults by file type.
   • Search or browse the list of file extensions (e.g., .jpg, .mp4) and select the application you want to associate with each file type.
3. Resetting Default Apps:
   • If you want to reset your default apps to their original settings, go to Settings > Apps > Default apps and scroll down to the bottom.
   • Click Reset under “Reset to the Microsoft recommended defaults” to revert all default apps to the ones recommended by Windows 11.

5.3 Organizing and Managing Applications

1. Pinning Apps to the Start Menu and Taskbar:
   • Start Menu:
     • Right-click any app in the Start Menu or All Apps list and select Pin to Start to add it to the Start Menu’s pinned section.
   • Taskbar:
     • Right-click an app in the Start Menu or All Apps list and select Pin to taskbar to add it to the Taskbar for quick access.
2. Creating Desktop Shortcuts:
   • Right-click on an app in the Start Menu or File Explorer, select More > Open file location.
   • Right-click the app icon in the file location and choose Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).
   • The shortcut will appear on your desktop, allowing for easy access.
3. Organizing Start Menu Folders:
   • You can group apps into folders within the Start Menu for better organization.
   • Drag one app over another in the Start Menu to create a folder. You can add more apps to the folder by dragging them into it.
   • Click on the folder to expand it and see all contained apps.
4. Managing Startup Applications:
   • Go to Settings > Apps > Startup to see a list of applications that launch automatically when you start Windows.
   • Use the toggles next to each app to enable or disable them from starting automatically.
   • Disabling unnecessary startup apps can improve your system’s boot time and overall performance.

5.4 Updating and Managing Software

1. Updating Apps from the Microsoft Store:
   • Open the Microsoft Store and click on Library at the bottom-left corner.
   • Click Get updates to check for updates for your installed apps.
   • The Microsoft Store will automatically download and install available updates.
2. Updating Software Installed from the Web:
   • For non-Microsoft Store apps, check the app’s settings or help menu for an update option.
   • Many programs will notify you when updates are available and provide a direct link to download and install the update.
   • Alternatively, visit the developer’s website to download the latest version and follow the installation process.
3. Managing Windows Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Windows Update to manage system updates.
   • Click Check for updates to see if any system updates are available.
   • You can also view update history and manage advanced options like pausing updates, scheduling restart times, and configuring update delivery optimization.

5.5 Troubleshooting and Repairing Applications

1. Using the Windows Troubleshooter:
   • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot and select Other troubleshooters.
   • Use the appropriate troubleshooter (e.g., Windows Update, Program Compatibility) to diagnose and fix common issues with your apps and software.
2. Repairing or Resetting Apps:
   • For Microsoft Store apps, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and find the app you’re having trouble with.
   • Click on the three dots next to the app and select Advanced options.
   • You’ll see options to Repair or Reset the app. Repairing will fix the app without affecting its data, while resetting will return it to its original state (removing any data or settings you’ve configured).
3. Reinstalling Software:
   • If an app or program continues to malfunction, uninstall it (following the steps in 5.1 Uninstalling Applications) and then reinstall it using the installation file or Microsoft Store.
   • Reinstallation often resolves issues caused by corrupted files or incomplete installations.
4. Checking for Compatibility Issues:
   • Some older apps may not be fully compatible with Windows 11.
   • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Program Compatibility Troubleshooter to run a compatibility check and apply recommended settings for older software.
5. Using System Restore:
   • If an app installation or update causes system instability, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state.
   • Search for Create a restore point in the Start Menu, select System Restore, and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a point before the issue occurred.

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This section covers everything you need to know about managing applications and software in Windows 11, from installation to troubleshooting. By following these steps, you can ensure that your software is well-organized, up-to-date, and functioning smoothly on your system.