Workstation briefing — Windows 11 general availability resets developer desktop standards
Microsoft launched Windows 11 on 5 October 2021, introducing new hardware security baselines, WSLg integration, and redesigned window management that IT must support for regulated developer fleets.
What happened: Windows 11 became generally available with TPM 2.0 requirements, Windows Subsystem for Linux GUI support, and modernised UX.
- Hardware compliance: Validate developer hardware meets TPM, Secure Boot, and CPU baseline requirements before upgrading.
- Productivity tooling: WSLg enables GUI Linux apps; ensure policies govern cross-platform data handling.
- Support model: Document upgrade paths and application compatibility testing for critical dev tools.
Next steps: Pilot Windows 11 images with engineering teams, update endpoint management baselines, and capture evidence for compliance audits.