Windows 11 continues to evolve with its latest 24H2 update, bringing a host of new features and enhancements aimed at improving user experience and system performance for regular windows PCs. This update also contains exclusive features for NPU (Neural Processing Unit) powered PCs. This article delves into these updates, comparing them with previous versions and providing a step-by-step guide to installing the update.
Taskbar Enhancements
One of the key improvements in the windows 11 update 24H2 is the refined taskbar. The date and time layout has been made more compact, providing a cleaner look. Users can also choose to hide the notification bell icon, allowing for a more personalized and uncluttered taskbar. Compared to the previous versions, these changes provide a more streamlined and customizable interface.
When you boot your windows after update, you are going to notice the change in Task Manager icon, if you have pinned it to Task Bar.
Jump Lists
Right-clicking on apps in the Start menu or taskbar now reveals enhanced jump lists. These lists provide additional options, such as opening items with administrative rights, which was not as straightforward in earlier versions. This update makes it easier for users to access frequently used functions and perform tasks more efficiently.
Task Manager Improvements
Task Manager has received notable upgrades. Users can now get clearer details about connected storage devices, making it easier to identify SSDs and HDDs. This is an improvement from previous versions, where such information was less accessible and sometimes required third-party software.
A new scrollable view of quick settings means that you no longer have to edit the list to add new actions; simply scroll through and rearrange as you see fit.
File Explorer improvements in Windows 11 24H2
File Explorer in Windows 11 24H2 has been enhanced with new touchscreen edge gestures and shortcut hints. These updates improve navigation and usability, especially for touchscreen devices. Compared to the older versions, these features make File Explorer more versatile and user-friendly.
Clear labels in the context menu indicate actions such as cut, copy, paste, rename, share, and delete, simplifying your daily tasks. Previously only icons of above actions were available in the context menu.
File Explorer windows now show preview thumbnails with multiple tabs, ALT+TAB, and Task View.
PNG files now support metadata editing, allowing you to add information to your images.
Brand new support for creating 7-zip and TAR (Linux’s popular format) archives, expanding your options beyond the traditional ZIP format. The new compression wizard offers a variety of formats and detailed customization for your archiving needs, while the enhanced extraction feature resolves file name conflicts with ease.
Wi-Fi Enhancements with Support to Wi Fi 7
The all new Wi-Fi 7 elevates your connectivity experience with significant improvements in throughput, latency, and overall wireless performance. With Wi-Fi 7, your Windows PC can achieve multi-gigabit speeds, offering up to 4x the speed of Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, and nearly 6x that of Wi-Fi 5. This means smoother, more responsive real-time activities like gaming and video conferencing, with significantly reduced latency.
Joining and sharing Wi-Fi networks has been simplified with the introduction of QR codes. Additionally, privacy controls for Wi-Fi connections have been improved, offering users better security options. These enhancements make connecting to Wi-Fi networks more secure and convenient than ever before.
Microsoft Teams Integration
The integration of Microsoft Teams into Windows 11 has been further streamlined. Users can now manage their accounts and notifications more effortlessly within Teams. This is a significant improvement over the previous, more fragmented experience, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.
Voice Clarity
Voice Clarity support has been expanded across more devices, ensuring clearer voice communication. This update enhances the audio experience for users, especially during calls and virtual meetings, providing better sound quality compared to previous versions.
Sudo for Windows
The introduction of a ‘Sudo for Windows’ feature improves command-line efficiency. Users can now execute commands with elevated privileges more easily, a feature long-awaited by power users. This addition streamlines administrative tasks and enhances productivity.
Energy Saver
New smart power management features have been introduced to extend battery life. Compared to previous versions, these enhancements offer more intelligent and efficient power usage, helping users get the most out of their devices on the go.
How to Install the Windows 11 24H2 Update
Installing the Windows 11 24H2 update is straightforward. Here are the steps to ensure a smooth installation process
- Check for Compatibility: Ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements for the update.
- Backup Your Data: Before proceeding, it is always a good idea to back up your important files and data.
- Open Settings: Go to the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open Settings.
- Update & Security: In the Settings window, navigate to ‘Update & Security’.
- Windows Update: Click on ‘Windows Update’ on the left-hand side.
- Check for Updates: Click the ‘Check for updates’ button. If the 24H2 update is available, it will appear in the list of updates.
- Download and Install: Click ‘Download and install’. The update’s download size is approximately 5.4 GB.
- Restart Your Device: Once the update is downloaded, you will need to restart your device to complete the installation.
Following these steps will help you install the latest Windows 11 update and enjoy all the new features and improvements it brings.
Some of your apps that were set to auto startup with windows, will appear to start late, after around a minute or even a few seconds more.
You can also fresh start with downloading and installing windows. To download windows 11 from official Microsoft download page, click here .
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Conclusion
The Windows 11 24H2 update introduces significant enhancements across various aspects of the operating system. From a more customizable taskbar and improved jump lists to better power management and security features, this update aims to provide a more refined and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these updates are designed to make your computing experience smoother and more efficient. So, ensure your device is ready, back up your data, and take advantage of the latest that Windows 11 has to offer.