Windows 11 release date, features and system requirements

Upgrading your PC, setting up a business workstation or just wondering whether your current laptop is ready for the next big OS? For residents in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula, understanding Windows 11 is key to planning your next upgrade.

Below we break down the release timeline, what’s new in Windows 11, the system requirements you need to meet, and some practical thoughts based on what we see every day at Computer Technicians.

Release Date & Update Cadence

Windows 11 officially launched on 5 October 2021 as the successor to Windows 10. Since then, Microsoft has moved to an annual feature update model, releasing one major update each year along with regular security and reliability patches.

My insight: If your computer is a few years old or you’re managing multiple machines in a business environment, treat each major Windows update like a mini-upgrade cycle. Even if you don’t install it straight away, plan ahead for testing and compatibility checks so you’re not caught off guard when support for older versions ends.

Key Features of Windows 11

Windows 11 brings a fresh, modern look and a number of improvements under the hood. Here are some of the main highlights:

• Refreshed interface: A centred Start menu, rounded corners, cleaner icons and a more streamlined layout.

• Improved productivity: Features like Snap Layouts, Virtual Desktops and a tighter Microsoft Teams integration help multitasking feel smoother.

• Better gaming performance: Support for Auto HDR and DirectStorage on compatible hardware improves load times and graphics performance.

• Enhanced security: Windows 11 requires Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, raising the baseline for system protection.

My insight: Many users focus on the visual changes, but the real benefits come from the performance and security improvements. Faster wake times, smarter memory management and reduced background noise make everyday computing noticeably better — especially for power users or small offices juggling multiple apps.

Minimum System Requirements

Here’s what your PC needs to run Windows 11 properly:

• Processor: 1 GHz or faster, 2 or more cores on a compatible 64-bit CPU or System on a Chip (SoC).

• RAM: 4 GB (minimum).

• Storage: 64 GB or larger.

• Firmware: UEFI with Secure Boot enabled.

• TPM: Version 2.0.

• Graphics: DirectX 12 compatible with WDDM 2.0 driver.

Note: These are minimums, not recommendations. For a smoother experience, aim for at least 8 GB of RAM and a modern SSD.

My insight: Across Melbourne, we often see computers that technically meet these requirements but still struggle with speed. Upgrading to an SSD or adding more memory often transforms performance more than the OS upgrade itself.

Practical Recommendations for Everyday Users

1. Check compatibility first. Use Microsoft’s PC Health Check or similar tools to confirm your hardware meets the minimum requirements before you upgrade.

2. Upgrade your hardware if needed. Moving from an HDD to an SSD or adding RAM makes a huge difference, especially for older devices.

3. Don’t rush the upgrade. If your computer is stable on Windows 10, there’s no need to upgrade immediately. Wait until drivers and apps you rely on are fully supported.

4. Consider a clean install. If your PC has years of old programs and clutter, a fresh installation will often perform far better than an in-place upgrade.

5. Stay on top of updates. Keep your system patched regularly to maintain security and reliability.