Microsoft introduced a new version of its operating system, Windows 11, on October 5, 2021. It is available in two main editions: Home for personal users and Pro for professionals. Windows 11 Pro includes a range of unique features that make it an ideal choice for use in business and corporate environments. In this article, we will present key arguments in favor of why you should buy Windows 11 Pro.
General Improvements and Innovations in Windows 11
The Windows 11 interface has been completely redesigned in the Fluent Design style. It has become more modern, concise, and user-friendly. The taskbar is now centered on the screen, and the Start menu opens in a separate window containing pinned applications and recommended documents.
Among other notable changes:
- The return of widgets to the desktop for quick access to necessary information: news, weather, and currency exchange rates.
- A new Snap Layouts function for convenient organization of windows on the screen. It allows users to arrange multiple applications side by side in a few clicks and save this configuration for future use.
- Improved functionality with virtual desktops and support for multiple monitors. The system now remembers the layout of windows on each desktop and correctly restores it when switching.
- Integration of Microsoft Teams directly into the taskbar for quick communication with colleagues. The Teams call button allows users to start a chat, voice, or video call with one click.
- An updated Microsoft Store with support for classic Win32 applications in addition to UWP programs. Furthermore, developers can now use third-party payment systems and do not have to share revenue with Microsoft.
It is also worth noting the significantly accelerated system performance, including faster wake-from-sleep mode and device startup. Built-in applications such as Settings, File Explorer, and several others have been redesigned to enhance the user experience.
Exclusive Security Features in Windows 11 Pro
Windows 11 Pro offers a range of additional features to protect devices and data from modern cyber threats:
- BitLocker — robust disk encryption that protects data on lost or stolen devices. This feature is only available in the Pro edition and supports the use of a TPM module.
- Windows Information Protection (WIP) helps prevent leaks of confidential corporate information. It separates personal and work data, preventing applications and users from accidentally disclosing protected content.
- Windows Hello provides convenient and secure user authentication without using passwords. It supports login via PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Windows 11 Pro adds the ability to lock the device when the user walks away and instantly unlocks it upon return.
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen offers advanced protection against phishing attacks. It detects when a user enters their Microsoft credentials on a suspicious site or in an infected application and displays a warning.
- Hardware security features include the Microsoft Pluton chip, Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, and UEFI firmware integrity verification. They provide protection for the device, sensitive data, and the OS boot process from various types of attacks, including rootkits and bootkits.
- Advanced networking capabilities: built-in Hyper-V firewall, support for Wi-Fi 6, and the WPA3 protocol. Windows 11 Pro also supports Bluetooth Secure Simple Pairing (SSP), Secure Connections, and the Core Spec 5.3 specification.
According to a Techaisle study, using Windows 11 Pro reduces the number of security incidents by 58% compared to Windows 10 Pro. The increased hardware requirements for installing this OS are offset by significantly enhanced protection against a wide range of threats.
Centralized Management and Remote Access
Only the Pro edition offers features for centralized management of corporate devices:
- Integration with Active Directory and Azure AD for user and policy management. This allows setting common security settings, restrictions, and access rights for all PCs and users in the organization.
- Group Policies (GPO), dynamic device provisioning via Autopilot, and MDM support. These tools enable the deployment of new computers with pre-configured Windows 11 Pro, automatically registering them in the management system and applying specified policies.
- The ability to use PCs with Windows 11 Pro as Remote Desktop Session Hosts. This allows employees to connect to their work computers from anywhere in the world and work with corporate resources and applications.
- Built-in virtualization and application isolation tools: Hyper-V and Windows Sandbox. These allow the safe execution of potentially dangerous programs or legacy software versions in a separate virtual environment, isolated from the main system.
- Offline system activation option without an internet connection or Microsoft account. This is useful for organizations that do not want to transmit data to external networks for security reasons.
These capabilities simplify the deployment, configuration, and maintenance of a corporate fleet of devices with Windows 11 Pro. IT administrators can manage policies and security centrally, while users can access their work resources and applications from anywhere.
Before upgrading, it is necessary to ensure that the hardware meets the increased system requirements of Windows 11 Pro. It is also recommended to consult IT specialists to assess infrastructure readiness and plan a smooth transition to the new OS.
Conclusion
Windows 11 Pro is a powerful and secure operating system created specifically for professional use. It offers advanced protection, centralized management, and remote access features that are not available in the home user edition.
James is the head of marketing at Tamoco