The general release of Windows 11, the next version of Microsoft’s operating platform, is almost upon us. Word on the watercooler is that the OS is on track for an October launch, though the rollout will only get underway next year.
In this vein, the company has penned a blog post to urge organizations to prepare for their transition to the new operating system.
Microsoft executive Steve Dispensa says that apart from all the new features that are part of this fresh new OS, there are new capabilities for IT teams as well. Windows 11 packs over 1,000 new management controls so that IT departments can shift away from legacy mechanisms like Group Policy.
The new OS is also the most secure Windows ever, with security from the chip to the cloud.
Redmond understands that every organization will transition to Windows 11 at their own pace, but the software titan assures that all investments in Windows 10 will carry forward to the new operating system as it builds upon the same code base and capabilities.
Nevertheless, Microsoft recommends that organizations already start preparing for this eventual transition.
This starts with IT administrators enrolling in the Windows Insider Program for Business and test Windows 11 builds either in virtual machines or on physical computers across their organizations to get feedback which can be submitted to Microsoft.
Second thing is to validate hardware and software readiness.
Next up is creating a Windows 11 deployment plan, which includes evaluating infrastructure and tooling such as security baselines, optimizing service strategy to cater to Windows updates, preparing help desks, and setting user expectations.
And lastly, Microsoft recommends organizations utilize cloud-based endpoint management tools such as Windows Autopilot, Microsoft Intune, Cloud Configuration, and Endpoint analytics.
The software titan has highlighted all these steps, which it says will allow companies and businesses to seamlessly transition to Windows 11. The planning phase remains the same in principle, but organizations will be able to make use of the company’s enhanced tools.
Tools like cloud-based endpoint management configuration and App Assure that allow organizations to make data driven decisions when strategically moving to Windows 11.
