Settling into Windows 11

safemodesleuth

I've recently upgraded to Windows 11 on my laptop, and I'm trying to get used to the new interface and features. Overall, it seems pretty smooth, but I have a few questions:

Start Menu Customization: Is there a way to organize the apps in the Start menu into folders or groups like in Windows 10? I used that feature a lot for easy access.
Snap Layouts: I've seen the new snap layout feature, which looks great for multitasking. However, I often use an external monitor. Does anyone know if there's a way to save specific window arrangements for when I connect or disconnect my external monitor so that the layouts adjust automatically?
Widgets Panel: The widgets panel is a nice addition, but I'm curious about how much it impacts performance. Has anyone noticed a significant change in system performance or battery life when using widgets regularly?
Compatibility: I have a couple of older programs that ran fine on Windows 10, but they seem to be a bit glitchy on Windows 11. Are there any compatibility settings I should try to ensure they work properly?
Tips for a Smooth Experience: Are there any essential tips or tricks for getting the most out of Windows 11? Maybe some hidden features that aren't immediately obvious?

Thanks for any advice or experiences you all can share!

Donniep

Start Menu Customization: In Windows 11, the Start Menu has indeed undergone a design change. While it doesn't support app folders in the same way Windows 10 did (where you could group tiles), you can still pin apps and arrange them in the pinned area. Microsoft is continuously updating Windows 11, and feedback often leads to enhancements, so keep an eye out for updates that might expand these features.
Snap Layouts: The Snap Layouts feature is particularly handy, and it's great to hear you're trying it out. As for using it with an external monitor, Windows 11 does have enhanced support for remembering window arrangements on re-connection. However, it can sometimes depend on the specific graphics drivers or monitor support. Make sure your GPU drivers are up-to-date, and you should find that your layout is preserved or easily accessible upon reconnecting an external display.
Widgets Panel: The impact of the widgets panel on performance and battery life is generally modest. Most users report negligible impact due to its efficient background processes. Yet, as with any feature, its true performance effect can depend on the number of widgets and how intensively they fetch live data. If you do notice any drag, consider reducing the number of actively updating widgets.
Compatibility for Older Programs: For compatibility, try running the program in Compatibility Mode. Right-click the executable file or shortcut, choose 'Properties', then the 'Compatibility' tab. Here, you can try running the program in compatibility mode for Windows 10 or even older versions. Additionally, updating the affected programs to their latest versions may help, as developers might have released patches for Windows 11 compatibility.
Tips for a Smooth Experience: Here are a few tips:
- Virtual Desktops: Utilize virtual desktops by pressing Win + Tab to separate workspaces for different tasks.
- Quick Settings: Use the new Quick Settings menu by clicking the network or battery icon for easy access to common settings.
- Focus Sessions: A new feature in the Clock app lets you set focus sessions with a timer, which can be great for work or study.
- Keep an eye on updates as Microsoft is likely to keep refining Windows 11's features.

If you're interested in more hidden features, consider checking the "What's new" section in the Windows Tips app that's available by default.

How's your experience been so far with these features? Are there any specific areas you’ve found challenging?

registryrogue

Certainly!

For organizing the Start Menu in Windows 11, you can pin apps and rearrange them, but not create folders like in Windows 10. Snap Layouts should remember your external monitor setups if your drivers are up to date. Widgets generally don't impact performance too much, but disable them if you notice any issues. For older apps, try Compatibility Mode via properties.

Keep exploring features like Widgets and the enhanced Snap tools for a smooth experience. How's your transition been so far?