IT are starting to rollout Windows 11 across the organisation. This system has been built from the ground up to better support remote work with faster startup times, easier access to applications when you need them and improved security.
This will be a gradual rollout and you will be contacted by IT when a new device is ready for you. If all your data is already backed up to OneDrive or Objective, the transition will be smooth, so we recommend to keep your data in either of these places to ensure a smooth transition to Windows 11.
Windows 11 Benefits
Faster Startup Times
Currently when your computer starts up, the current system was designed as if it were always going to be at a desk with a network connection. That means it will always be trying to connect and look for the network. The new system is designed to be used wherever you are, so you will be in Windows and working in less time.
Sign on with Facial Recognition
When you first log into your computer, you will be asked if you want to set up facial recognition. By setting this up, whenever you try to log in, you will simply need to look at your inbuilt camera and your laptop will log in. If you aren’t recognised you will still have the option to log in with your regular password. This will save the countless times you are usually needing to type your password increasing your productivity and the security of your laptop.
Automatically connect to Wireless
Currently when you unplug your laptop from your desk, you need to manually connect to the Staff Wi-Fi. With the new Windows 11 laptops, this is instant. Unplug from the desk and the Wi-Fi will connect. Plug back in and the Wi-Fi will disconnect ensuring you always have the fastest connection available when you need it.
Quick Access to new Applications
Software Center has been replaced by a new application called Company Portal. Staff with iPhone may already have used this software before. Company Portal doesn’t need a VPN to access applications or application updates, so as long as you are connected to the Internet, you can get access to any council applications you may be missing. Just realised you left the office and didn’t get a chance to install Zoom before an offsite meeting? Just open up Company Portal and install, no need to use the VPN.
Less need for VPN
As more of our applications move to web-based alternatives, there is less need for the VPN to be used. With Windows 11, we’ve tried to build the system around this idea. If you need to quickly jump on to check email, or a system that’s Internet-based, you can do this without needing the VPN.
Of course, for systems that are needing access to any of the Network Drives, the VPN will still be required.