Microsoft is releasing Windows 11 on October 5, 2021. On this day, the free upgrade to Windows 11 will begin rolling out to eligible Windows 10 PCs, and PCs that come pre-loaded with Windows 11 will start to become available for purchase.
If you have a Windows 10 PC that’s eligible for the upgrade, Windows Update will let you know when it’s available. You can also check to see if Windows 11 is ready for your device by going to Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates.
However, Windows 7 users will need to perform a clean installation using a bootable USB drive and an ISO to upgrade to Windows 11.
Windows 11 is the first major version of Windows released since 2015 when Windows 10 was released.
Here are 11 highlights of this release
- A Widgets feature that gives you quick access to personalized news stories, weather forecasts, stock market information, and more.
- A new Snap Layouts feature that lets you quickly arrange your open windows how you like them.
- Microsoft Teams is now integrated directly within Windows 11.
- DNS-over-HTTPS support to allow encrypted DNS lookups for more privacy to and to bypass censorship.
- An optimized user interface for the Windows 11 File Explorer.
- An updated and more organized Settings interface.
- Improved virtual desktops.
- A new Windows Clipboard.
- Enhanced HDR gaming support.
The Windows 11 upgrade will start to be delivered to qualifying devices beginning on October 5, 2021, into 2022. Timing varies by device.
