Hayden Kirk
October 16, 2024
With the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, several significant updates will improve both user experience and security, especially for professionals who rely on their devices for critical tasks. Below, we explore some of the most exciting new features and how they can benefit your organisation.
Personalise Your Workflows with Unique Backgrounds for Desktops
One of the notable enhancements in Windows 11 24H2 is the ability to set different backgrounds for individual virtual desktops. For professionals managing multiple projects or tasks simultaneously, this feature offers a visual distinction between workspaces, helping you stay organised and focus on specific tasks. Imagine having a unique background for your “Client Projects” desktop and another for “Internal Work,” making it easier to switch contexts without losing track of your work. For someone like me who constantly has 3-4 desktops open, this will make it far easier to know which desktop I’m on! If you don’t know about this feature, read more here.
Enhanced Security with Windows Hello and Passkeys
Security is at the forefront of the Windows 11 24H2 update, particularly with advancements to Windows Hello (If you are unsure what Windows Hello is, it’s generally used for face recognition as the main way to authenticate on your computer vs using passwords but has other options as well).
The update introduces passkeys, a more secure, password less sign-in option that relies on biometrics like your face or fingerprint. Passkeys help mitigate the risk of phishing attacks by using cryptographic credentials stored on your device. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, this shift towards password less authentication offers a stronger, more user-friendly security layer across Windows 11 environments.
Windows Hello also benefits from further integration with Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), which isolates credentials in a secure environment, making it more challenging for attackers to exploit devices. This added layer of protection is crucial for organisations looking to safeguard sensitive information, especially those handling high-value data.
AI-Powered Features for Enhanced Collaboration
Windows 11 24H2 introduces new AI-powered tools designed to improve communication and collaboration. Windows Studio Effects now offer advanced features like background blur, automatic framing, and voice clarity, making remote meetings and video calls more professional and seamless. For those in hybrid working environments, these tools can significantly improve audio and video quality, whether you’re on a team call or recording presentations
Additionally, Auto Super Resolution uses AI to enhance gaming and graphical experiences, upscaling images for better visual performance. While targeted primarily at gamers, this feature could benefit professionals working with high-resolution media
You may have seen our previous emails about Windows 10 end of life in 2025. Now is a good time to purchase newer hardware with Intel’s new AI powered CPUs which will greatly improve this technology in Windows.
File Explorer and Taskbar Improvements
Productivity enhancements extend to File Explorer, which now supports new archive formats like 7Zip and TAR. This makes it easier to compress and extract files without needing third-party software. For those handling large files, the performance boost when managing ZIP archives is a welcome change.
The Taskbar has also been improved, making navigation smoother. You can now customise Quick Settings, and the inclusion of better Wi-Fi management through an updated Quick Settings panel allows faster access to network controls and VPNs connections allowing connecting and disconnecting in a single click.
Strengthened App Control and Admin Security
To bolster security further, Smart App Control is now powered by AI, designed to block malicious apps from running, significantly reducing the risk of malware infiltrations. This feature works by analysing over 78 trillion security signals each day to determine an app’s safety, offering an extra layer of defence without the need for constant user intervention.
For those with administrative access, a new Just-In-Time Admin Approval system ensures that elevated privileges are only granted when absolutely necessary. This reduces the attack surface by preventing apps from accessing critical system resources unless explicitly authorised via Windows Hello.
Even more features
This update is packed with a wealth of new features. Here are a few more enhancements you’ll want to explore:
- Recall (Copilot+ PC Exclusive)
- Improved Windows Search (Copilot+ PC Exclusive)
- Click to Do (Copilot+ PC Exclusive)
- Super Resolution in Photos (Copilot+ PC Exclusive)
- Image Creator and Restyle Image in Photos (Copilot+ PC Exclusive)
The notable piece here is the focus on AI and Copilot subscriptions being required for these features.
A Solid Step Forward for Productivity and Security
With the rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2, we can look forward to enhanced security, improved workflows, and greater AI integration. From unique backgrounds for individual desktops to password less authentication and AI-powered communication tools, this update is packed with features that cater directly to the needs of today’s business environments.
We’re here to help you implement and leverage these new features for your organisation’s success. If you’re looking to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2 or want to know more about how these changes can benefit your business, feel free to get in touch with our team.