Welcome to the First Column IT Tech Blog

HomeBlog
How to Get a Handle on Windows 11

How to Get a Handle on Windows 11

November 4, 2024

Windows 11 has some cool tools that can make it easier to use, especially if you set things up to fit how you like to work or play. Here are four easy tips to help you organize your Windows desktop and get things done faster.

Try Using Virtual Desktops

Virtual desktops let you set up multiple desktops, each with its own open apps. This way, you can keep work or school stuff on one desktop and fun stuff on another, so things don’t get mixed up.

To make a new virtual desktop:

  • Press Windows + Tab to open Task View.
  • Click New Desktop at the bottom.

You can switch between desktops by pressing Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow. This makes it easier to keep things organized and less cluttered.

Customize Your Start Menu and Taskbar

The Start Menu and Taskbar are where you go to open your favorite programs, so why not set them up how you like?

To pin your most-used apps to the Start Menu:

  • Right-click the app and choose Pin to Start.

To change the Taskbar:

  • Right-click it and select Taskbar settings.

You can make the icons smaller, hide the Taskbar when you don’t need it, and even choose whether to show the search bar. Or, to add a program to the Taskbar quickly, just drag it down there.

Use Snap Assist to Arrange Your Windows

Snap Assist helps you keep your screen neat when you have a bunch of windows open.

To use Snap Assist:

  • Drag a window to any edge of the screen, and it will “snap” into place.
  • To snap windows quickly, press Windows + Left/Right Arrow to snap it to the side.

You can even snap up to four windows by moving them to the corners of the screen.

Try Keyboard Shortcuts and PowerToys

Keyboard shortcuts can help you move around Windows super fast. Here are a couple of useful ones:

  • Windows + D - Show or hide the desktop.
  • Alt + Tab - Switch quickly between open apps.

You can also check out PowerToys, a free tool with extra features like window management and custom shortcuts. Make sure you check in with your business’ IT resource for assistance in enabling all this.

With these tips, you’ll be using Windows like a pro in no time.

Previous Post
December 30, 2025
How to Lock Your Screen in a Flash
You may leave the house door wide open when you step out to grab the mail. Sounds reasonable, but if a stray cat were to wander in, that was the risk you ran. The same logic applies to your digital life. Locking your computer, tablet, or phone screen is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take to protect your privacy and security.
December 23, 2025
Protect Your Business from Stolen Credentials with Multi-Factor Authentication
The scariest threats out there are the ones that can crack your network without you even realizing it. That’s right, they’re using stolen credentials that they tricked your employees into handing over through a phishing attack. The good news, though, is that a simple multi-factor authentication solution (MFA) can be a significant step forward for your network security, and the simple act of having one makes your business much safer and less prone to cybersecurity breaches.
December 20, 2025
Innovation Coming Quick: The Three Pillars Driving Today's IT Revolution
As an IT professional, I'm used to dealing with change. It's the nature of the job. What we're experiencing now isn't just change, it's an exponential acceleration of innovation. The rate at which new technologies are emerging, maturing, and disrupting entire industries is faster than ever before. This velocity shift isn't a random event, it’s driven by three key factors coming together in perfect harmony. This month, we will take a look at them.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation for VA, DC and MD companies. We will provide a detailed proposal and firm quote based on your specific IT support needs. All at a predictable monthly cost per seat.
Free Consultation - Sign Up Here