Windows 11 Tips – Features You (and Your Staff) Should Be Using
If your business has recently upgraded to Windows 11 — or is planning to soon — you're in good company. But here’s the thing: most people aren’t using it to its full potential.
Windows 11 offers smarter ways to work, communicate, and stay secure. At Beyond, we’ve helped many of our clients get the most out of their upgrade — and these are the top features we recommend exploring.
1. Snap Layouts – The End of Window Clutter
Snap Layouts let you neatly organise multiple windows on your screen with just a hover — perfect for multitaskers.
Hover over the maximize button on any window
Choose from pre-set layouts (side-by-side, grid, columns, etc.)
Snap windows into place instantly
Less alt-tabbing, more flow.
2. Virtual Desktops – One for Work, One for Everything Else
Keep your workflows focused with multiple desktops:
Use one desktop for emails and Teams
Another for creative tasks, or personal research
Easily switch between them with Ctrl + Win + Arrow
Perfect for remote workers or multitaskers who want separation without extra monitors. Hover over the task view button and select new desktop - easy as one, two, three!
3. Smarter Search – Find What You Need, Fast
The new Windows Search is faster and more powerful:
Search files, apps, settings, and web results
Start by pressing Windows Key and typing
Use filters like "Documents" or "People" to narrow results
A huge time-saver — especially in hybrid or document-heavy businesses.
4. Built-In Security – Behind-the-Scenes Protection
Windows 11 includes stronger default security, such as:
TPM 2.0 support (required for install)
Windows Hello (facial or fingerprint login)
Smart App Control to block unknown software
BitLocker drive encryption (available in Pro edition)
And Windows 11 helps meet core requirements for Cyber Essentials like access control, secure configuration, and malware protection. Making it even easier to get certified!
5. Focus Assist – Eliminate Distractions, Stay on Task
We all know how easy it is to get derailed by pop-ups, alerts, or incoming emails. That’s where Focus Assist comes in.
It helps you:
Block notifications during deep work or presentations
Schedule quiet hours during the day (e.g. 9am–12pm)
Only allow priority contacts or apps to interrupt you
Find it at:
Settings > System > Focus (or Focus Assist)
You can also activate it directly from the notification center by clicking the time/date in the taskbar.
Focus Assist = fewer distractions, more productivity.
6. Dark Mode – Because Your Eyes Matter
Small but mighty: Dark Mode is easier on your eyes, especially for late working hours.
Go to Settings > Personalisation > Colours
Switch to Dark (or schedule it based on time of day)
You’ll be surprised how many of your team appreciate this one.
7. Widgets Panel – Glanceable Info in One Place
Click the Widgets icon on your taskbar to see:
Calendar
Weather
News
Tasks
Company or personal To Do lists
It’s a small feature — but big on convenience.
Beyond’s Tip: Roll It Out with Training
Upgrades are only useful if your team knows how to use the new features.
We recommend:
A quick training session or walkthrough
Internal tip-sheets or cheat sheets
Encouraging teams to explore (then share their finds!)
If you're a Beyond client, we can help support your team with training, rollouts, and post-upgrade optimisation.
Final Word
Windows 11 isn’t just a visual refresh — it’s packed with tools to work smarter, not harder, bringing about a new age of productivity and usability all in one visually appealing package.
Want help unlocking these features (and more) across your team?
Let’s talk — we’ll help you get the most from your Microsoft 365 environment.