Windows 11 and Office 2021 Share Release Date of October 5

09/22/21

The highly anticipated release of Windows 11 will have to share the spotlight with the debut of another Microsoft solution. On Oct. 5, Microsoft will release a new standalone version of Microsoft Office as well as Windows 11.  On this date, the free upgrade to Windows 11 will begin rolling out to eligible Windows 10 PCs and PCs preloaded with Windows 11.

Highlights of the Windows 11 upgrade include: 

  • A new design and sounds that are modern, fresh and clean. 
  • The iconic “Start” button utilizes the cloud and Microsoft 365 to show your recent files no matter what device you last viewed them on. 
  • Snap Layouts, Snap Groups and Desktops provide an easy way to multitask and optimize your monitor space. 
  • Widgets, a new personalized feed powered by AI, provides a faster way to access the information you care about.  
  • Microsoft Edge’s efficiency allows you to get more done on the web.  
  • New opportunities for developers and creators include opening the Microsoft Store to more developers and software vendors.  
  • Windows 11 is also the operating system for hybrid work, delivering new experiences that are secure by design and easy and familiar for IT to deploy and manage. Organizations can test Windows 11 in preview in Azure Virtual Desktop, or at general availability in the new Windows 365. 

As for Microsoft Office 2021, this product suite differs from the new Microsoft 365 by serving as a one-time purchase designed to offer Office apps for one computer at a single, up-front cost. Also on Oct. 5, Microsoft will release Microsoft Office Long Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) for Windows and MacOS, an enterprise-focused version of Office 2021, available to commercial and government volume-licensed customers.  

The biggest difference between Office 2021 and Microsoft 365 is the availability of updates. Office 2021 and Office LTSC are not designed to receive any feature updates that regularly reach Microsoft 365 users.  

Do you know which Microsoft products are best for your organization? If you need guidance, contact 2W Tech today. We are a Microsoft Gold Partner who specializes in solutions for the manufacturing industry. One of our many IT consultants can help you decide what Microsoft solutions will best serve your company. Call us today to learn more.

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