Applies To
Windows 11

Welcome to Windows 11! Whether you're new to Windows or upgrading from a previous versionthis article will help you understand the basics of Windows 11. We'll cover the essential components of the desktopFile Explorerand Microsoft Edgeproviding you with a solid foundation to navigate and use Windows 11 effectively.

User experience

Windows 11 is the latest version of Microsoft's operating systemdesigned to offer a modern and user-friendly experience. With a sleek interfaceimproved performanceand new featuresWindows 11 aims to enhance productivity and enjoyment for users. Let's dive into the basics and explore what Windows 11 has to offer.

Sign in and access to the desktop

The user experience begins at the lock screen. If your device has a biometric sensoryou can conveniently sign in using your face or fingerprint. Alternativelyyou can use a PIN or password.

Screenshot of the Windows 11 lock screen.

The user profile pictures on the side allow you to switch between different user accounts.

After you successfully sign inyou are taken to the desktop.

Screenshot of the Windows 11 desktop.

Desktop Components

The desktop is your main workspace in Windows 11. It includes several key components:

Start Menu: Located at the center of the taskbarthe Start Menu provides quick access to your applicationssettingsand files. You can pin your favorite appssearch for filesand access system settings from here.

To open Startpress the Windows key  on your keyboardtypically located between the Ctrl and Alt keysor select it with your mouse. On a touch deviceyou can open the Start menu by tapping the Start button or swiping up from the bottom of the screen.

Screenshot of the Start menu expandedwith emphasis on the button on the taskbar.

Taskbar and Quick Setting

​​​​​​​The taskbar runs along the bottom of the screen and includes icons for open applicationssystem notificationsand the Start Menu. You can customize the taskbar by pinning appsadjusting its positionand changing its appearance.

Quick Settings allow you to access essential system controlssuch as Wi-Fivolumeand display settingswith just a few clicks. You can open Quick Settings by clicking the networkvolumeor battery icon in the system tray.

Screenshot of quick settings in Windows.​​​​​​​

FilesFoldersand Shortcuts: The desktop is also a convenient place to save filesfoldersand shortcuts to frequently used applications and documents. You can organize these items by dragging and dropping them to your preferred locations on the desktop.

File Explorer

File Explorer is the tool you use to manage files and folders on your PC. It allows you to browseorganizeand access your files with ease. Here's how to use File Explorer:​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 

  • Opening File Explorer: Click the folder icon on the taskbar or press the Windows key​​​​​​​  + E to open File Explorer.

  • Navigating Folders: Use the side panel to navigate through your folders and drives. You can expand folders by clicking the arrow next to them.

  • Managing Files: You can create new foldersmove filesand delete items by right-clicking on them and selecting the appropriate option. You can also use the toolbar for common actions like copyingpastingand renaming files.

  • Searching for Files: Use the search bar to find files and folders. Enter keywords or file names to locate specific items.

Screenshot of File Explorer.

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is the default web browser in Windows 11. It offers a fast and secure browsing experience with features like tab managementreading modeand built-in security tools. Here's how to use Microsoft Edge:

  • Opening Edge: Click the Edge icon on the taskbar or search for "Microsoft Edge" in the Start menu to open the browser.

  • Browsing the Web: Use the address bar to enter URLs and search for content. You can open multiple tabs by selecting the "+" button next to the current tab.

  • Managing Tabs: Right-click on a tab to access options like closing the tabpinning itor opening it in a new window. You can also use the tab groups feature to organize related tabs.

Screenshot of Microsoft Edge.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Keep learning about Windows

Here are some useful resources to help you continue learning more about Windows.

Personalization icon

Personalize Windows​​​​​​​

accounts icon​​​​​​​

User accounts

network-internet icon​​​​​​​

Network and Internet

folder icon.​​​​​​​

Files and storage

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