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
October 4, 2023
Disaster Recovery as a Service Helps Businesses Stay Afloat
Data and technology drive modern business, and as such, data backup and disaster recovery are crucial to the continued success of any organization. There is so much at risk that it would be counterproductive to ignore these unforeseen disasters. Disaster Recovery as a Service, or DRaaS, is an effective way to combat the omnipresent threat of data loss.
October 2, 2023
What Can Cause a Cyberattack in the First Place?
Cyberattacks are nothing to take lightly. Every year, they cause millions of dollars of damage to unprepared and unprotected businesses, which leads to many of these businesses’ failure. Let’s talk about what ultimately causes cyberattacks, so you know the kinds of situations and behaviors to keep an eye out for.
September 29, 2023
The Most Common and Frustrating Errors to Make with Your Technology
With the right technology at your side, you can ensure that your operations, productivity, and customer satisfaction are maximized. However, even with all these benefits, small businesses make mistakes, particularly in regard to the implementation process. How can your business overcome the hurdles that stem from improper technology implementation strategies? Let’s take a closer look.

Have a project in mind?

Start with our free consultation. 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