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
November 23, 2024
The Three Most Common Printer Problems
The printer is a technology we can’t escape. In many ways, we can't live without them, but they sure know how to drive us crazy. You’d think printing would be simple, but when issues pop up, it’s easy to wonder why printers are so unreliable. Here are the main reasons printers tend to mess up, as most problems fall into one of these three categories. Let’s take a look at them:
November 21, 2024
Technology is Driving Consumer Action
Today, people use technology for almost everything, from chatting with friends to deciding what to buy. With smartphones, computers, and other devices, we can quickly find information, shop online, and manage our time. This digital change means that people expect things to be fast, easy, and convenient. As a result, technology is changing how we interact with businesses and decide what’s worth our money. Let’s take a look at how technology has changed the way people buy things. 
November 20, 2024
Six Changes You Can Easily Make to Help Your Business Succeed
Successful businesses need to change to keep up with what customers want, new trends, and how the world is changing. This means they have to know their business well and be open to trying new things. Let’s look at six important areas where businesses often make changes to stay successful.

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