Windows 11, released on October 4, 2021 is the latest version of the Windows operating system from Microsoft.
The first step to upgrading to Windows 11 is ensuring that your computer can be upgraded. See here for Microsoft's list of the minimum system requirements. If your current PC doesn't meet the minimum standards, you'll need to purchase a new PC.
Microsoft also has an application you can download and run to help determine your PC's compatibility. See here to download the PC Health Check app.
See also our list of the minimum and recommended requirements to use TaxSlayer Pro.
If your PC can be upgraded to Windows 11, here are a few items that you need to check before and after upgrading.
Before Upgrading:
- Make a backup of all your business data - spreadsheets, documents, images, etc., anything you do not want to lose.
- Back up your TaxSlayer Pro data and programs for all years using the Program Backup Utility in the Utilities Menu.
- Back up the data for any other programs you use in your business.
- Take this opportunity to clean up your computer before upgrading to Windows 11:
- Check the list of programs in the Apps & Features section in Windows Settings and uninstall any programs that you are not using.
- Use the Disk Cleanup app to remove all temporary files.
- Ensure the programs that are essential to your work will run under Windows 11. The program publisher's website should have this information.
- Make sure that all your hardware, e.g., printer, scanner, and signature pad, is supported in Windows 11. Check the manufacturer's website for this information. You may find that an older printer and scanner isn't supported and will need to be replaced.
- If you use TaxSlayer Pro in a networked environment and this is the PC that functions as the file server, note the PC's "Device name". This is the name specified in the TaxSlayer Pro System/Network configuration menu in each workstation PC that links the workstation to the file server. If the device name changes in the course of upgrading, you will need to update it in each workstation's configuration so it can once again communicate with the file server, or you can just change the device name back to what it was before upgrading.
After Upgrading:
- Test your printer.
- Test your scanner.
- Test all other hardware, such as the signature pad.
- Test each program.
- If you use TaxSlayer Pro in a networked environment and this is the PC that functions as the file server, ensure the workstation PC(s) can communicate with it successfully. Being able to log in to the workstation generally confirms this as well as the client list mirroring the list on the file server.
As always, we suggest you consult a local tech support person if you feel uncomfortable performing these tasks.
