“Future-Ready: Why State and Local Governments Should Embrace Windows 11 Today!”

Windows 11 Software Unlocks AI Opportunities for Agencies

Upgrading to Windows 11 also involves evaluating organization-specific software systems, including Microsoft’s latest Edge browser, which is utilized for application access. Microsoft consistently prompts users to adopt the Edge browser and sets it as the default during installation. This initial choice can be altered in preset Windows 11 configurations or modified effortlessly after the upgrade.

Windows 11 incorporates Copilot, an AI utility. Copilot can be excluded through modifications in preset Windows 11 configurations or turned off via Group Policy or other means by admins and users. Modifications to news feeds, advertisements, and various privacy and security elements can be executed similarly.

A strategy for the Windows 11 upgrade can include the addition of other software, firmware, and drivers that are suitable for the state of a post-upgrade network by utilizing tools from Microsoft and third-party vendors that personalize the deployment and adapt it to various endpoint client categories.

DIVE DEEPER: The end of support for Windows 10 represents a new phase for PC AI.

Agencies Must Comprehend Windows Licensing Expenditures

The expenses associated with Windows 11 upgrades can vary from free to a charge determined by an organization’s association with Microsoft, potentially through federal, state, or other contractual bodies. These expenses must be comprehended prior to deploying an upgrade strategy. Numerous individuals and organizations have already accomplished upgrades successfully with minimal workflow disruption. Careful upgrades are typically tackled with a rollout strategy and compatibility assessments.

Third-party partners can assist with rollouts, which often include an inventory of hardware and software, frequently automated, that’s validated against lists of known compatibility or modifications that need to be addressed before an upgrade.

Compliance with regulations may also necessitate updating software bills of materials to encompass Windows 11 and altered or updated hardware, software, or firmware components.

The training duration for Windows 11 is brief and unlikely to justify training expenses. There isn’t much variation between Windows 10 and 11. Customization options for users and admins are located in similar areas and employ a related user interface. Most customization options are preserved during an upgrade, and modifications are carried out in a recognizable manner. Windows 11 integrates well with macOS and other platforms.

EXPLORE: Readiness evaluations can facilitate the transition to Windows 11.

Although some instances of Windows 11 upgrades have already occurred, a random upgrade is not as advisable as one that is planned. Addressing a specific problem after an upgrade can consume time. A rollout strategy is highly recommended for optimal success. Many organizations find that outdated hardware needs to be replaced for compatibility reasons, and hardware acquired through standard methods now typically comes with Windows 11 pre-installed. Downgrading from Windows 11 to Windows 10 is only possible through a complete restoration from a valid full backup.

The deadline of Oct. 25 is unlikely to be altered. Formulating a plan and executing a rollout in the forthcoming three calendar quarters should be prioritized on the agency’s agenda.